With the demon Astoggoth destroyed and the curse finally lifted, she turned her steps homeward, weary beyond belief by her journey across the world. She knelt before her old Master, whose staff she had stolen, and begged his forgiveness for the havoc she had caused. "Child," he said sternly, "you have dabbled in mysteries for which you were not ready, and fought battles for which you were not trained. That you have returned at all is a miracle; that you are safe and whole is a blessing. But you are no longer a journeyman in this house of magic." She hung her head, sorrowful that she could not continue the studies she had loved so much, but she had expected no less. Then the Master spoke again. "Your skills now exceed those of most who pass through these halls. I name you Master of Magic, and convey upon you the staff that you have rightfully earned." She could only stare at him in disbelief, as he reached out a gentle hand to help her rise. "Welcome home, my daughter," he said, enveloping her in his arms. "I have missed you." This is 8th and final chapter of the Journeyman Mage saga. I hope you've enjoyed reading them as much as I have enjoyed creating them. You can find all of the episodes by searching for "journeyman mage" in the gallery notes. Credits: Laini lo-res texture by Shredboy Ponytail by Kozaburo Front Ring Dress by Sahara Boots from the Fighter Mage by Lourdes Mercado Ben texture by Eduardo Castejon Robe by Thip Millenium Dragon by DAZ3D