141 The Tempering

"Have you gone mad?" The anger in Snowcloud's tone was matched by her expression. "He's a recruit, and you want him to go through the Tempering?"

"Lady Snowcloud, novices aren't supposed to know about the Tempering," Elder Naran said, frowning at her.

"Recruits aren't supposed to undergo it," Snowcloud retorted sharply.

"He's hardly a usual recruit," Elder Naran said. "Even without the Blood magic, his raw strength is enough to match a powerful novice."

"But the Tempering kills even adepts," Snowcloud said.

"Some die," Elder Naran agreed. "But most survive, and grow stronger."

"What are the two of you talking about?" Arran cut in. He had absolutely no idea what the Tempering was, but from Snowcloud's reaction, it was clear it was dangerous. "What is this 'Tempering'?"