1
At night the fog still hung over the lake and in the forest swirled around the trees. The lights above the clearings were glowing yellowish disks. 'Let's not get separated,' Del said, and took his hand as they slowly made their way through the trees.
When they came into the clearing of the sixth light, Coleman Collins was waiting for them. He sat in the owl chair, his legs crossed at the ankles.
Tom swallowed, knowing that he would see Rose down in the funnel of trees before this part of the story was done.
'The sorcerer's apprentices,' Collins said, turning his head to greet them. His voice was blurred. Both boys had seen the bottle clamped between his thighs. 'Just in time, yes, and wandering lone through the mists like orphans. Sit down in your accustomed places, boys, and attend. We have reached the next-to-last chapter of my unburdening, and the weather is appropriate.