The Fate of Nemmerle

A Wizard of Earthsea

The Archmage who sacrificed his life to save Ged from the shadow.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
Nemmerle's WelcomeNemmerle's Welcome
The Ancient Archmage The Moment of Understanding Nemmerle, old and white, welcomed Ged. For a moment, Ged understood the language of the world. Nemmerle read Ogion's letter and sensed Ged's power. The Omen of the Raven Nemmerle's raven spoke a cryptic phrase. The Archmage seemed to foresee something, but he smiled and sent Ged away. This was their only meeting before the crisis.
The Rescue on Roke KnollThe Rescue on Roke Knoll
The Sacrifice The Banishing of the Shadow When the shadow attacked Ged, Nemmerle appeared instantly. He used all his power to banish the shadow and seal the breach. He saved Ged, but the effort cost him his life. The Dying Mage Nemmerle lay in the Fountain Court, cold and still, watching the stars. The raven flew away. He died the next day, and the bells tolled. His death was a direct consequence of Ged's folly.
Nemmerle's LegacyNemmerle's Legacy
The Weight of the Deed The Guilt Ged lived with the guilt of Nemmerle's death. It was a constant reminder of the cost of his arrogance. The Archmage's sacrifice became a moral touchstone for Ged. The Inspiration Nemmerle's selflessness inspired Ged to seek redemption. He was a model of true power used for good, and his memory guided Ged toward the path of balance.
Ged's first day at Roke
the night of the summoning
after his death, throughout the rest of the story