The Story of Pechvarry and His Son

The friendship between Ged and the boatmaker Pechvarry, and the tragic death of Pechvarry's son Ioeth.

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Meeting Pechvarry

The Boatmaker's Jetty A Kindred Spirit Ged met Pechvarry while watching him step a mast. Pechvarry's friendly grin broke through Ged's reserve. Ged offered to cast a binding-spell on the boat, which Pechvarry was building for his son Ioeth. The Friendship Grows They worked together often, Ged learning boatbuilding and sailing, Pechvarry learning a little about magic. They went fishing and sailing with Ioeth, a happy time for Ged.

Ioeth's Illness and Death

The Red Fever The Desperate Call Pechvarry's son fell ill with red fever. The witch could not help, and Pechvarry begged Ged to save him. Ged, trusting his own power, attempted a healing spell but failed to save the boy. The Crossing Over Ged's spirit followed Ioeth into the land of the dead. He saw the boy running down a dark slope and called him back, but could not reach him. He turned back, only to encounter the shadow at the boundary wall. He collapsed, and the child died.

Grief and Guilt

The Broken Friendship Pechvarry's Distrust After Ioeth's death, Pechvarry was grateful but also fearful. He said, “I did not know you were so mighty,” with reproach in his voice. Their friendship was never the same. Ged's Isolation Ged felt the weight of his failure. He could not save a child, though he had slain dragons. This reinforced his belief that he was cursed. He soon left Low Torning, unable to face Pechvarry.

summer, during Ged's service in Low Torning

late autumn of the same year

after Ioeth's death, the following weeks