The Complete Assassin's Apprentice

"The bastard son of a prince, FitzChivalry Farseer is raised in the shadow of Buckkeep Castle. Cared for by his father's stableman, Fitz finds companionship and solace in the stables through the Wit, a forbidden magic that connects him to animals. When Fitz is still a young boy, at the behest of his grandfather King Shrewd, he is brought to the castle and educated as a member of the court. But at night, Fitz is secretly tutored by the Royal Assassin, who teaches him patience, precision, and poison. As Fitz grows into manhood, barbarous raiders ravage the coast and Fitz is trained in another art-a powerful telepathic magic known as the Skill. Plunged into a maze of schemes and intrigue, as enemies abound and duty and honor are at odds, Fitz finds that the fate of the kingdom may lie in his hands"-- Provided by publisher.