The Fate of Nemmerle
A Wizard of EarthseaThe Archmage who sacrificed his life to save Ged from the shadow.
increasing
Bearing strength in each event
decreasing
Nemmerle'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 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 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