The Harp and the Blade — John Myers Myers

The blue-painted wizard appeared and spoke to Finnian.

“You let a man die today because you couldn't be bothered!”

“It wasn't my business.”

“You think nothing in life is your business!” the wizard howled. “But I'll make it so tings will be!”

Finnian waited alert, ready to kill if the wizard voiced a curse, but he only looked hard and said: “From now on, as long as you stay in my land, you will aid any man or woman in need of help.”

That didn't sound so bad . . . until Finnian discovered the whole realm needed help!