“If you insist,” I said casually, taking a long pull on the bottle.
“Think you’re pretty smart, don’t you!” Aahz snarled, then he grinned. “Well, I guess you are at that. You’ve done pretty well… for an amateur.”
“A professional,” I corrected with a grin. “A salaried professional.”
“I know.” Aahz grinned back. “For an amateur, you’re pretty smart. For a professional you’ve got a lot to learn.”
“C’mon, Aahz!” I protested.
“But that can wait for another day,” Aahz conceded. “You might as well relax for a while and enjoy yourself… while you can.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?” I frowned.
“Nothing!” Aahz shrugged innocently. “Nothing at all.”
“Wait a minute, Aahz,” I said sharply, regaining my feet. “I’m Court Magician now, right?”
“That’s right, Skeeve,” my mentor nodded.
“Court Magician is the job you pushed me into because it’s so easy, right?” I pressed.
“Right again, kid.” He smiled, his nodding becoming even more vigorous.
“Then nothing can go wrong? Nothing serious?” I asked anxiously.
Aahz retrieved his wine bottle and took a long swallow before answering.
“Just keep thinking that, kid.” He grinned. “It’ll help you sleep nights.”
“C’mon, Aahz!” I whined. “You’re supposed to be my teacher. If there’s something I’m missing, you’ve got to tell me. Otherwise I won’t learn.”
“Very well, apprentice.” Aahz smiled, evilly emphasizing the word. “There are a few things you’ve overlooked,”
“Such as?” I asked, writhing under his smile.
“Such as Gus, Ajax, and Brockhurst, who you just sent back to Deva without instructions.”