Thanks, as ever, for answering questions. In Natural Ordermage, Rahl is told that order magic cannot be taught and that he’s developed his skills strongly and late, so has no basic training. Lerris also seems to develop his skills late and is given even less information before his dangergeld. Why were the magisters even less willing to give Lerris any information on what he was capable of?

Rahl grew up in the hide-bound north of Recluce where everything was so traditional that no one had the experience and skill to tutor him. Nor was there a mage there powerful and skillful enough to deal with him. He’s also incredibly stubborn, and until he discovers Debri and lands in the ironworks at Luba, where Taryl finds him, that’s the first time in his life where he has the motivation and a mentor able to help him fully develop his skills.