" Crystal was looking out forSam and I did recall her words that evening as she drove me home."Can I see you?" I asked in desperation."Why?" Her quest...on was good. I really didn't know."Please, Crystal. I know you can help me. I really want this to workout with Sam." I had no idea what to do but felt Crystal was the key toSam's door."I have things to do on Saturday. There is a coffee shop on the cornerof 5th & Adams St. Be there in hour. I won't be waiting for you." Shehung up.I showered and. With a deft flick, he produced flame. Mordred looked at the fire with wonder just like he did last night. Merlin was surprised by the little magic stick. He reconsidered his evaluation. This Jacob appeared to be accomplished after all, yet there was something odd about him. Something was not right. Merlin decided to reserve final judgment."The King wanted me to say 'hi'," Jacob said. "Hi." It sounded stupid the instant it was out of his lips. He would trade just about anything to be with his. Even in your earliest memories you recall your dad preparing you for this day. He promised you that everything would change the day you turned 21. He had emphasized that you must be mature, resolute, secure in yourself, and calm. But most of all he stressed that you must keep your mind open. Recently, as the big day neared, you sensed that he was uneasy about it yet he assured you that the moment would not be delayed. Tonight, at precisely 8:44 pm, all would be revealed.What could it possibly. "May your father's memory be a source of comfort," the voice responded with the automatic greeting for mourners. "Please sit down."Yakhir glanced around for the old stuffed chair that was always available for guests to the Archivist's study, but all he saw was a straight backed plaswood chair of another era; it had probably been repatriated from one of the storage vaults. He sat down, keeping his eyes only a desk level. He felt the sweat on his back where it pressed into the chair. As the.