Following Sam's departure, Sle'nel’ had gone to meet with the newly-returned Elves. San'lr'in’ hadn't wished to tend to the details of the Elves’ lives, and had other issues that were troubling her. She had woken to her concerns over El'fs'nd'lle, the arriving humans, her sisters, Sansthera, the Mungardies, her move to Rns'deln', who should teach Ly'strl'n to be queen, the loyalty of Krl'lnn', and many of the other issues that came with an expanding and changing realm. But mostly, a dark and uneasy feeling had woken her, as had occurred for many prior turns.
Now focusing on her main concern of the dark feeling, she walked silently through the paths of El'fs'nd'lle, with her hands folded together behind her back, her eyes looking nowhere in particular. For the first moment upon many, she didn't feel the need to keep her senses on full alert while she remained inside the safe borders of El'fs'nd'lle.
"May I walk with you in your concerns, Student?"
San'lr'in’ smiled to herself. She had heard the voice upon many moments in her past, and knew it well, “It is a most comforting feeling that you do as such, Teacher. It has been overly long since you have walked with Me."
"Even at your third cycle, you walked in this same fashion—with your hands folded together behind you."
"This cannot be truth."
She heard light laughter, “It is truth, Highness. It was as if you were born an old and wise one."
"I was yet young when you left, but I enjoyed the few moments we had in such a manner."
"You were indeed overly young, High Queen. And your reign has been a most difficult one. But you were well prepared and trained. We chose you wisely."
San'lr'in’ raised an eyebrow while walking, “You were long gone prior to The Realm's choosing of Me, Teacher."
"Really? This you believe as so?” She heard a soft laugh, “I ... no, we all saw it in you by the moment of your fourth cycle, Highness, and began training only you for this role. Do you recall what you did at your fourth cycle?"
She shook her head, “No."
"Two occurrences let us know of your determination. You rose early on the morn of your fourth cycle, excited that we were going on a long journey. But you wished not to ride with another, so climbed upon the most stubborn, largest, quickest and least trained of The High Queen's horses, and rode her out of the stables all on your own. By the moment of your Teachers’ arrival, you had her well-trained."
San'lr'in’ laughed lightly, “I had to ride her bareback and lead her by her mane, as she was overly large for me to secure the bridle or saddle. And none other helped."
"Then one of the others told you to get your weapons. I had to restrain from laughing at the look upon your face as you looked back to the stable, seeing your weapons upon the ground."
"Did I manage to retrieve them? I recall this not."
"You did, but I was laughing well by this moment, as were most the others. You jumped down off your horse, landing hard upon the ground, yet refusing to show your pain. You then retrieved your weapons and fastened them securely to your back, moved the horse to the side of the railings, and climbed back on. Do you recall what else you did upon that turn, Highness?"
San'lr'in’ had never prior been able to see herself from her Teachers’ perspective, learning that she was as overly stubborn as she had thought her teachers to be, and was surprised to learn that they had laughed. She never thought they had such ability, “I recall little of this."
"As we were beginning to look for a site in which to place our eve's camp, the first Master asked you, ‘What will you eat for your eve's meal? Did you bring your food with you?’”
Ll'strin'll. The High Queen knew to not speak the name of a dead one, but nodded, “I recall that she called Me as Stupid One upon every moment."
"She was a mean one, and most disturbed that we hadn't chosen her to become as High Queen. But she served you well as a Teacher, as she helped to make you strong and fiercely independent. I recall your expression vividly. You looked at her with defiance, brought your spear to the ready, then let it fly, killing a hare on the first throw. You must have seen it prior, but it surprised us. You then jumped off your horse to retrieve it."
San'lr'in’ laughed, “And then I had to walk the remainder of the journey to the camp, as I couldn't find a way to climb back onto the horse."
"At least you ate that eve."
San'lr'in’ recalled the moment, but quickly cast the memory aside. She never liked recalling her younger turns for the harshness of them, but she also had the deep issue that had now begun to consume her thinking.
After a few moments, she heard the High Wizard Sorcerer's voice once again, “You worry overly on these concerns of yours."
"Perhaps, Teacher."
"The Realm is changing, High Queen, and you have helped this to occur."
"It is not this, High Wizard Sorcerer. I am well pleased for this change. Indeed, one of My Sacred Vows to The Realm and to the Deep Mystics has been fully achieved. Prior to meeting Sle'nel', I never thought this possible."
"Yet I feel your heaviness of thought. Perhaps you are concerned over the humans, then?"
To San'lr'in’ it felt like the voice walked next to her like upon the many moments long prior, and she sensed comfort in the feeling. She shook her head, “Not overly. We will deal with them upon their arrival."
"You sense something else, then?"
She thought about her answer for a moment, examining the dark feeling, “Yes. Something far different."
"You sense an uneasiness."
San'lr'in’ shook her head again, halting her walking, “Not this, but a darkness. In The Realm. Its sensing has touched Me.” She thought about the words she used, then said, “No, this is not correct. Sought is more as it feels. It has sought Me out."
"Tell me of what you sense, Highness."
"Strong. Silent. A darkness with no need of urgency. An assuredness. Far more intelligent than the others I have had to battle. And patient. Overly patient. It examines My strength."
"But it becomes known to you."
She nodded, “It lives, most certainly, and can touch Me through the sorcery powers. It is apparent in that I know of it, but not apparent in that it makes no move to show itself. It simply waits and learns."
San'lr'in’ felt the weight of the long hesitation, but finally her Teacher answered, “Yes. I saw this as you touched Sle'nel's staff. I felt you shiver. This has not occurred to you since far long prior. Has this Dark Power begun to call to you?"
"No. Not this. It watches Me. It waits."
"It is not the Mungardies?"
"No.” She was certain of her answer, “Not them. Far deeper in its darkness. Far more intense in its ability.” She had a guess as to its source, but kept it apart for the moment.
"Be mindful of this power, and watch it carefully. But this is not unknown to you, and you are well prepared to face whatever it may be."
"It makes it not the easier, however. Nor does your statement soften the unease of it."
"Do you know this dark one's identity?"
"I have a guess, but thought it not possible."
"Do you wish to tell me of this?"
She hesitated for a long moment, then halted as she said it, “The Wizard of The Ravens. She has opened her eyes."
She heard a slight gasp as she had spoken her guess, then silence for a long moment, “I also thought this not possible, but perhaps there is a reason. Forget this not, my student, as there is usually a reason for dark moments such as this. You will need to trust more in Sle'nel's powers as High Sorcerer. She will soon be able to sense more of the Wizard than even you, given that the Wizard seems to be living through the spells instead of the Deep Powers."
San'lr'in’ nodded again, “You speak truth, and it is a good reminder, but she has much more learning prior to her knowing of her full abilities. I will not risk her to this one."
"Trust her abilities further, High Queen, as she will learn them quickly. And trust the High Priestess. She knows well her spells, and while unknown to you, has been exceptionally well prepared for such as this. She is a R'kin'dles and has much worth in this Realm than has prior been given to her."
"I have begun to see as such. Why did the prior Elves not know this in regard to the R'kin'dles? And why was she remained as overly hidden in this realm?"
The High Queen heard a soft sigh, “The newly-returned Elves were well chosen, my Queen, but you will know this not, as you knew little of the troubles within the Elves. As is legend, the long-prior Elves treated all those living the same. But the role of overseers of The Realm slowly turned into those who remained elevated and merely observant of The Realm, and the R'kin'dles were the most affected."
San'lr'in’ took a guess, “They needed the most attention and the most love."
"It sounds easy, does it not? But it wasn't easy for the Elves to keep themselves connected to the R'kin'dles, as many didn't wish the races to inter-breed. This issue caused much dissension between the Elves. It wasn't an easy moment."
"Will the newly-arrived Elves be as such?
"No. No longer. This has been well planned."
"You have seen the new babe created between a Mystic and a Dungaras?"
"You refer to your first love's daughter's child?"
"Yes."
"A strange breeding, but you will find its resistance to disease unusually strong. But nothing else is known of such a pairing, as never prior has such occurred."
San'lr'in’ heard a far-distant noise; one she had been hoping for, “Please excuse Me, High Wizard Sorcerer, but another seeks Me. We will speak again later."
She gave a soft whistle, then waited. When she saw the great bird, she held out her arm, letting the bird land on it. While the bird spoke to her, she listened carefully, far from pleased with the report. She stood completely yet in her thoughts, unaware of all those about the town, reminding herself of her long-prior teacher's words: There is usually a reason for dark moments such as this.
With the new report from her winged messenger, San'lr'in’ had become anxious to return to the Valley. She had spent many moments thinking over the message, then had Ann'wn, Erthrn, Uthrn, the Warrior Woman, Mil'der'in, Sume', An'ther'on and Fon'elnn called to her at the small arena in the middle of the town.
"We leave on the third turn."
Ann'wn nodded, knowing fully that this wasn't the purpose for the meeting, “Yes, Highness.” She could sense her queen's uneasiness.
Sume’ had no patience, “You surely couldn't have called us together for this startling report."
The High Queen rose and began to pace, ignoring her sister's statement, “Mil'der'in. What report comes from the Valley this turn?"
"There is an unconfirmed report that there has been a slight disturbance in the Southern Lands, Highness. And there has been a report from Sansthera."
"Tell us of both."
"A guard from one of our far-southern villages has reported a battle. A second messenger has been vowed to arrive with another report once more is known. And there has been a report from Sansthera. The arriving humans have asked us to inform them of what Mystics are, Highness."
The High Queen looked briefly at Mil'der'in, displeased with the lack of knowledge in the report, “Have another messenger returned quickly to the Valley. I want the full details of the incident in the southern community by My return to the Valley."
Mil'der'in nodded, “Yes, Highness. And what of the arriving humans? Do you wish to have a message sent?"
The High Queen looked puzzled, “An answer? They know not Mystics? How overly strange. Sister, do you have an answer for such?"
Sume’ shrugged, “They sound dull-witted, so provide them a simple response, only. Tell them that Mystics are not humans."
"Will they understand this, an answer in the reverse?"
"And how would you explain that which they know nothing of, Force Leader?"
San'lr'in’ waved her hand, dismissing the discussion, “Tell them what My sister says. It will keep them busy. We have more important issues facing us. An'ther'on, what report from your forces?"
"The journey to the Valley is clear of danger, Highness. I have heard nothing about this battle in the Southern Lands."
"Erthrn. What reports have you from your forces?"
"We are yet following the Mungardies, Highness. I have no reports from the Southern Lands."
"Ann'wn. What reports have you heard?"
"The Realm's forces report the battle, my Queen. A few of the town's subjects were fleeing to another village for safety, and told your forces of the battle."
The High Queen waited a moment, becoming frustrated, “And?"
"A village had been attacked, Highness."
"By who, Force Leader? Can you not be more forthcoming than this?"
Ann'wn had received a report from her messengers, but hadn't wished to share the details until the facts were fully verified, “In truth, my Queen, what I have heard is mere story, until my forces can determine this."
"Tell Me, Force Leader. Make Me not beg for this information."
"The fleeing villages stated that they were attacked by the R'kin'dles, Highness. But this is not possible."
Sume’ stood, protesting loudly, “This cannot be so, San'lr'in'. They wouldn't do as such. These villagers lie. The R'kin'dles have vowed they would no longer battle against The Realm."
San'lr'in’ halted her pacing and faced her sister, “Yes, I know this, High Priestess. It is as you say. If they did this, they did as such for a reason we yet know not.” She turned to Ann'wn, “And I have also heard that the R'kin'dles attacked the village, but My messenger told Me more. I have been informed that they attack as their town is being held captive unless they do as such."
Sume’ was angered, “Who is behind this?"
San'lr'in’ looked at her, wishing she knew more. She waited a moment, sighed deeply, then said, “I have a guess, only."
"You are as infuriating as your Force Leader. Tell me your guess."
She sighed, looking more than frustrated, “I believe it is the Wizard of The Ravens. I believe she is awakening."
Sume’ looked stunned. An'ther'on had never heard of such, “Who is this, Highness?"
Sume’ stood staring at her, fully paralyzed in the possibility, “But she cannot yet be returned. The legends say otherwise. She was to be gone well past our lifespans."
San'lr'in’ looked at Sume', “She has sensed Me through My spells."
Sume’ looked panicked and now shook her head in disbelief, “Not her. Tell me that you jest, as we cannot win against her powers."
Ann'wn, like An'ther'on, didn't know of the Wizard of The Ravens, but felt Sume's fear, “Who is this, Highness?"
Sume’ sat down heavily, her heart filled with despair, “The most evil and strongest wizard to ever walk in The Realm."
Mil'der'in looked confused, “I thought the Dark Sorcerer was the strongest, Highness."
Erthrn was also bewildered, “And I thought that most of the magic spells have been returned to the safety of The Realm, my Queen."
The High Queen was thinking thoughts far removed from the moment so hadn't heard their questions, “Highness?"
She turned, startled, “Huh? Ah, My apologies. Tell them, High Priestess, of this long prior one. They know not this tale."
Sume’ was yet in shock as to her sister's statement, and in full disbelief that this wizard could be in The Realm in their own lifespan. She gathered what memory she could from the long-prior tale, “Her name was banned from The Realm for fear that the saying aloud of it could return her to The Realm. This is why so few know of her existence in our era. For many eons, well prior to our imaginings, this Wizard's name has remained as unspoken across all the cycles. She lives in the far Southern Lands, far below any settled regions, in the lands where the mountains explode into hot flowing lava and where the lands shake with such violence as to bring down the trees. The Dark Sorcerer was nothing but a mere Mystic babe as compared to her."
"Where did she come from? I thought all the sorcery contained."
"Contained? What do they mean by this, San'lr'in'?"
San'lr'in’ sighed. Upon their arrival to El'fs'nd'lle, she had felt lighter, far removed from her usual burdens of The Realm, but this report brought all its weight crashing back onto her, “Into the High Wizard Sorcerer's staff."
Sume’ nodded her understanding. She turned back to Mil'der'in, “The spells are contained, from those that have been available to us in our era, but the Wizard of The Ravens is from far long prior, well beyond our known past."
"Tell them the story, High Priestess. All of it, so that they might share the burden of what might now face us."
Sume’ repeated the same story that both she and her sister had been told prior by their grandmother and teachers, “Far removed from our moments, even prior to when this realm was first settled by our kind, this wizard was the High Counselor to its leader, one far long-prior to any High Queen. It was when the powers were stronger than any we know, well beyond our imaginings. The leader of The Realm, Jre'nec'rn', was strong, but young. We know not if this line yet continues, and we know not if she was even of the Mystics. The Realm was a larger place then, including many from other Realms, but in this we have little understanding. Jre'nec'rn’ ruled all this Realm as well as two others. We know these not. The Wizard of The Ravens was of a ruling family from far across the realms, but had been passed by as a leader, even though she was most beautiful. She was given to Jre'nec'rn’ as a token of friendship and peace, in hopes of combining two great legions, and she became Jre'nec'rn's partner by oath. Jre'nec'rn’ saw it as a good political pairing, as the Wizard of The Ravens was gifted with farsight, a sight that Jre'nec'rn’ was lacking. The Wizard of The Ravens thus became Jre'nec'rn's most favored counsel, and her partner, although Jre'nec'rn’ had another as her true and only lover.
"Jre'nec'rn’ increased her holdings, with much guidance from the Wizard of The Ravens. It was said that this realm in which we live was alive with more races and population than we can guess, with other realms traveling here to trade. Her rule was successful and prosperous, and all loved her. Over the cycles, Jre'nec'rn’ and her lover had two children, which Jre'nec'rn’ is reported to have loved beyond reason. This caused much jealousy in the Wizard of The Ravens, but she said nothing of it for a long while.
"Jre'nec'rn’ knew of her High Counselor's jealousy, but ignored it. And thus began the High Counselor's slip into the darkest of all thoughts. She began scheming against Jre'nec'rn', plotting her downfall, as she secretly traded the palace's riches in exchange for the magical spells. Also during these moments, she built her own Keep in the Southern Lands. While Jre'nec'rn’ knew of her High Counselor's building, she thought it as good in order to keep the High Counselor busy and away from the royal family. The Southern Lands, like now, were mostly ignored for lack of any desirable locations for habitation within them.
"The more Jre'nec'rn’ allowed her High Counselor her freedom, the more she took and the more she wanted. As she became stronger in her powers, she began to wish for Jre'nec'rn's rule, thinking it her due. She bought many alliances and planned Jre'nec'rn's overthrow and assassination. In all these moments, Jre'nec'rn’ was considered a great leader, and was fully devoted to her lover and children. Wherever she traveled, she took her family, never wishing to remain apart from them. Jre'nec'rn's realms strongly approved, ever celebrating her arrival with her family. But at each moment of this occurrence, in her High Counselor's company, it would twist the High Counselor's mind a bit more.
"The High Counselor held her patience, training her ravens for when the moment was correct. It is said that she had thousands upon thousands of ravens. When the moment arrived, Jre'nec'rn’ and her family were captured, as by now none could hide from the High Counselor's ravens, and Jre'nec'rn’ was forced to watch as her lover was tortured and killed, and as her children's eyes were pecked out by the High Counselor's ravens, then tortured and killed.
"Jre'nec'rn’ was also to be killed, but escaped with the aide of her own guards. After many cycles, and after her former High Counselor had now placed herself as leader, Jre'nec'rn’ returned for her revenge. None thought that she could ever overcome the Wizard of The Ravens, as the Wizard had become overly strong, beyond any prior, and stronger than any other across all the known realms. She now ruled the known realms, yet all her subjects feared and hated her. But none could plot against her, as the ravens were everywhere, acting as her eyes and ears. She ruled her realms through fear, and the ravens were ever seeking out those who would betray her. It is said that many went insane from the sight of the ever-present ravens. And it is said that she could often be seen standing on her balcony, laughing as her ravens pecked the eyes of one of her subjects. The only love this one had was her love for killing. By the end of her reign, many of her realms’ races were wiped-out by her, forever extinct.
"Like her High Counselor had done to her, Jre'nec'rn’ waited until the correct moment, planning carefully, practicing her own powers to make them stronger. When the moment came, scores of those yet loyal to Jre'nec'rn’ helped in the scheme. Suddenly, across all the realms, the ravens were captured until only a few remained. Without her eyes and ears, the former High Counselor felt blind and fearful. Jre'nec'rn’ stepped into her Keep, challenging her for the return of her own reign. The contest lasted many turns, but Jre'nec'rn’ sadly saw that she was to lose to this overly powerful wizard. As her last act, now knowing that she could never kill the Wizard, she used her remaining powers to imprison her within her own Keep. As Jre'nec'rn’ died, she did so knowing that her powers had worked, for as her eyesight began to fade from her realm, she saw that the Wizard lay on her floor, asleep for the eons yet to come. It is said that the remainder of the ravens that could be caught were killed, and the Keep was sealed, as none knew how to rid The Realm of this Wizard."
There was silence for many moments, then Erthrn said, “This sounds not possible. It is a child's tale. Surely nothing more than this."
Sume’ nodded, “It is truth. Fully."
"Here. In our realm? She is yet here?"
San'lr'in’ nodded, “In the Southern Lands. There is much more to this tale, but this provides you with the story, as it is believed to be as truth. It is said that she murdered well over thousands upon thousands, upon thousands of subjects across her reign."
Ann'wn was stunned, “They had as many as this?"
"You knew she was there, High Queen?"
"Yes. I have seen her, asleep."
All were quiet, silenced by the tale, not prior knowing of such, and having no notion of how to rid The Realm of this Wizard.
Sume’ turned to San'lr'in', “She is fully awake?"
"She awakens, yet is already calling her forces quickly to her."
Fon'elnn’ nodded her understanding of the tale, “I am recalling this story. The First High Queen went to seeing her upon two occasions, of which I am being aware. As you saying, she was being asleep."
San'lr'in’ nodded, appreciating the confirmation, but thinking it odd that so many High Queens had to check upon the sleeping Wizard, yet, like it was with their grandmother, none could remove her from The Realm.
Sume’ went up to her, “Even your powers can be no match for hers."
She accepted the harsh moment, “It is truth. I will have to find another way to defeat her."
"Are the Mungardies with her, Highness?"
"I think not. I think they have also felt her and flee in their fear."
Ann'wn looked stunned, “The Mungardies are afraid of her? But they fear nothing."
Sume’ whispered, but all heard her, “I am afraid, San'lr'in'. I am afraid for you."
As she was trained, San'lr'in’ felt no fear, and knew to display only strength, “We will find a way, Sister. We must save the R'kin'dles from certain extinction by her hand.” She turned to Ann'wn and Erthrn, “Call for a War Council, in the Valley. I want all The Realm's Force Leaders present, without exception. It is My command."
"Yes, my Queen."
She had turned away from Erthrn and Ann'wn, but now turned back, “Oh, and Force Leader?"
"My Queen?"
"Send a message to the Mungardies informing them of this Wizard. My guess is that they are already aware of her awakening. Then invite them to the War Council. Inform them that I guarantee their safety. And send a messenger to all the Spirit Mothers and the Deep Mystics. Command their presence."
Ann'wn nodded her head once, “As you say, my Queen."
The High Queen turned to Mil'der'in, “Inform all the Rulers of The Realm that they are commanded to attend a Ruler's Meeting."
"Yes, Highness."
"This is all I have for now. We leave in three turns. You have My leave.” She turned to her sister, knowing that this was the moment she would have to ask Sume’ of her service, “Sume'n'tinel'ti'non. Please hold, as I have great need to speak with you."
Sume’ waited with The High Queen until the others had gone, “Keep me not in suspense. I detest being kept waiting."
San'lr'in’ merely looked at her, ignoring the statement, “I will not be able to do this alone, Sister. I am asking for your help in this matter. But prior to your answer, I want you to know full well that this will be most dangerous. My death is nearer in this battle than ever prior."
Sume’ looked at her as if she thought The High Queen stupid, “You will not die. And of course you need my help. Afterall, I am High Priestess of the Sorcery, but you will also need Sele's powers, as well as Sle'nel's, as they also carry the sorcery. And I know fully this to be dangerous, but if she is awakened, as you say she is, then there is danger all about us. You and I will be the first to die if she is allowed to begin her killing, as she cannot keep us alive and against her. There is no choice, San'lr'in'. We either kill her, or she will kill us. But I suspect you know more than you now tell."
As her usual, she ignored the statements she didn't wish to consider, “You have not yet sensed her presence?"
Sume’ nodded, “I have sensed something, but couldn't yet place it. I know not these meditations of yours, so she hasn't found an open and willing path into my senses ... yet. She will."
San'lr'in’ moved up close to her, her eyes pleading, placing her hand on her sister's shoulder, “Will you come with Me?"
Sume’ looked at her for a moment, not wishing to give away all her independence, “This will require all our efforts, San'lr'in', but I have two conditions."
The High Queen waited.
"You allow me to help teach and raise the one-turn Queen of the Elves, after this one's defeat."
San'lr'in’ raised an eyebrow, “And I have a condition."
Sume’ turned her head slightly sideways, studying her sister, “What is it?"
"You also help teach and raise the one-turn Future Supreme Sovereign."
"Both the future Elfin and the future Realm's Queens?” She smiled, “Agreed."
"Your other condition?"
"You will not keep anything from me in regard to this Wizard."
She considered the statement, wondering if she were about to lie. She didn't wish to lie to her sister, but felt she had no choice, “Agreed, under two conditions."
Sume’ looked sideways at her once again, “Tell me these."
"You become My counsel in this concern. You remain at My side until we achieve this battle. I can trust only you and Sle'nel’ in this concern, as you are both Sorcerers of high reputation."
"And the other condition?"
"You help Sle'nel’ learn all her spells."
"All these conditions will require that I remain in the Valley with you until we have beaten this Wizard, yet I have many demands in this regard."
"They will be met."
"All of them?"
San'lr'in’ laughed, “Must I twist Erthrn's arm to remain in your bed, as well?"
Sume’ smiled wickedly, “Now there is a demand I hadn't thought of myself. You know, San'lr'in', you surprise me at moments. And did you know that she is a quite capable lover?"
"Your demands will be met, but you will need to meet mine as well, as My counsel."
"Such as?"
"You will need to call your patience to you when we meet with the Rulers of The Realm."
"This? I must do th—?"
"And keep your patience with the Deep Mystics."
"Them also? How am I to do as su—?"
"And with all the Force Leaders."
Sume’ raised an eyebrow, “Your reign as High Queen has suddenly become less appealing to me. But I will agree to these demands."
"Then we are in agreement?"
Sume’ studied her sister for a long moment, knowing fully what she was about to do, “I never thought that we could remain in the same place together for any length of moments, but now you have us together over a common cause. You are indeed a good leader, San'lr'in', as you are even able to make your enemies admire you."
"And you will come to Woden with us."
"You command me, Sister? I will not be commanded."
San'lr'in’ smiled, using her charms, “Come, Sume'. Come with us and enjoy our journey and visit with our youngest sister."
Sume’ had been pleased at the thought, then suddenly frowned, “You are not going to inform her of the Wizard, are you?"
It wasn't a question. Sume’ had guessed that San'lr'in’ would keep this knowledge from Sam, “I see no reason to do as such. Her powers are overly weak, and there is no reason to instill fear in all of Woden. They yet recover from their just-prior battle."
"She will feel excluded, as she has a true warrior's heart."
"Then you will have to counsel Me on how to make her feel otherwise."
Sume’ grinned at the thought, “So, you are devious as well as a good bargainer.” She paused for a moment, then said, “I have one further need."
San'lr'in’ examined Sume's thoughts for a moment, then nodded, “It will be done, and quickly so. I will save the R'kin'dles."
They walked out of the room together, pleased in their negotiations, and pleased in the opportunity to bring them more closely aligned as family. But The High Queen also had her fears in this regard, not wishing to place any of her alliances in such certain danger.
After their agreement, San'lr'in’ walked alone on the Elfin paths, a thousand thoughts going through her mind. She was beginning to piece together what had remained hidden from her for overly long. She knew now what the Spirit Mothers had worked to prepare. She now knew why all the powers were coming together in her lifespan. And she knew now why the R'kin'dles were so important to The Realm.
She stood upon a bridge looking into the sky. To herself she whispered, sending her message, “Wizard of The Ravens, you have met your match in this era."
After the meeting, San'lr'in’ went to the Reflecting Pool for her meditations. She felt an urgency to examine the Wizard of The Raven's return to The Realm more fully. She had prior hoped that this would never have occurred in her reign, now finding herself once again far overly burdened.
She was interrupted in her meditations, “High Queen."
She removed herself from the meditations, upset with herself for not sensing a presence. She turned to the known voice, “Queen Torsn'dynl'. Queen Ersh'delrin'. What may I do for you?"
"We have heard the rumor. Be it truth?"
She nodded slightly, sighing, thinking that the report had traveled overly quickly, “I have felt her presence.” She saw that they looked nervous and upset, not caring if they were or not.
"What are you going to do, High Queen? You will need to act quickly, prior to her regaining all her powers."
She narrowed her eyes, suddenly eyeing them with displeasure, “Is this not why you chose Me as High Queen?"
"This is not the moment for such pettiness on your part, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. This is a deep matter. What are your plans?"
She raised an eyebrow, “You think I feel this not as a very deep concern? You are afraid. Why is this? Is there yet something remaining of which you have not informed Me?"
Ann'wn and Meera had been guarding their High Queen and were now witnessing the exchange, wondering why the Deep Mystics were so fearful of this newly arrived Wizard. They could see Sle'nel’ walking up toward the small gathering. Ann'wn had a momentary thought that they should halt her, but decided that she also needed to witness this.
"We lied not, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. We have given you all the powers."
Slightly angered, she could sense that they had left something aside, “But...?"
Torsn'dynl’ shifted in her boots, “Well, perhaps we omitted how these powers could be enhanced. If you could return to us, to the Women in the Trees, on your way to the Valley, then we—"
She no longer even tried to control her anger, “No! This will not occur. You will come to the Valley. You have remained apart from The Realm's dangers overly long. There is to be a War Council. I expect your presence, in force. And there is to be a Ruler's Gathering following this. You will be there. If you wish Me to protect you from this Wizard, you will come fully into The Realm from this moment. And you will give Me all that I will need for this battle."
"But my Queen, it is one of your sacred vows."
"Silence, Ersh'delrin'. This is not to be spoken. You have broken the vow of silence in this regard. If you desire My protection, then you will return fully to The Realm, beginning with the War Council. I have no more to say to you. Leave Me."
Sle'nel’ had overheard most of the exchange, wondering what had made her lover overly angry. As an Elf, she loved the Deep Mystics well, by instinct, but as she did with the Spirit Mothers, found them ever challenging and aloof in their stance. She placed herself next to a tree, as was her nature, remaining well away from the argument so that the Deep Mystics couldn't use her against her lover. Sle'nel’ also wondered as to the mention of yet another sacred vow.
After they left, Sle'nel’ went to San'lr'in', seeing that her lover had her eyes closed and was trying to distance herself from The Realm. As she drew near, The High Queen sighed, then held out her hand to Sle'nel'. Sle'nel’ took it, watching as The High Queen brought herself back into The Realm.
"You heard?"
Sle'nel’ nodded, “Who is this wizard?"
San'lr'in’ placed her hands on Sle'nel's head, then gave her the tale of the Wizard.
Sle'nel’ took one of her lover's hands into her own, then looked into her eyes, shrugging at the report, “Then it is fortunate that Sume’ and I can help in this."
San'lr'in’ laughed lightly, loving that her Elf showed no fear, “My fortune is that you stand next to Me at this moment, My Desire. This knowledge has well frightened everyone else."
"Another Sacred Vow?"
San'lr'in’ looked at her, but said nothing.
Sle'nel’ sighed, “It seems to me that the Deep Mystics and the Spirit Mothers have prior sensed that this one would return sooner than expected, given that it seems to be another of your sacred vows. Perhaps they even made her return as so. But they cannot do this merely to test your strength. There must be some need of this wizard's powers."
San'lr'in’ raised an eyebrow, intrigued at Sle'nel's insight, “Perhaps. Your mother has just reminded Me that there is usually a reason when such dark moments occur."
Sle'nel’ nodded, seeing sense in the statement, guessing that the Spirit Mothers had awoken the Wizard of the Ravens for a need within The Realm, “I will be unable to attend the War Council, but I will meet you on your journey to this Wizard."
San'lr'in’ took Sle'nel's other hand, holding both of them. She smiled, “Thank you for this, My Desire, but allow Me to think on this. I know not yet what needs to be done in this regard."
"The Elfin Lour'den’ Ceremony? Should I delay this?"
San'lr'in’ saw that Sle'nel’ was remaining strong, but sensed her disappointment. She brought Sle'nel’ to her, holding her tightly, speaking softly into her ear, “I vowed that I would give you your every request, and would give you pleasure only. Let us do this ceremony, if that yet be your desire. But think on this fully. I know little of this wizard, yet I must fight against her."
"No, my Queen. We must fight against her. But we will win, so even as we perform this ceremony, you will be stuck with me for many more cycles."
The High Queen began to undo Sle'nel's shirt laces, “If I must be stuck, as you say, in this realm, then let Me be as so in your arms.” She placed her hand on Sle'nel's breast, loving the soft fullness of it. She bent down and kissed it.
Sle'nel’ blushed, gasping at the intense feeling, surprised at her lover's need of her, whispering, “San'lr'in'. Meera and Ann'wn stand guard this moment."
"Then they may either leave, turn away, or watch. I care not."
Both Meera and Ann'wn smiled at their Queen's comment, choosing to move slightly away from their guarding positions, to allow the Elf and The High Queen their privacy.
The eve's meal was subdued, as the rumor regarding the Wizard of the Raven's had spread throughout El'fs'nd'lle. San'lr'in’ knew that such would occur, but felt frustrated in the moment, not wishing to listen to the others’ worries over such. Having been trained to move to action, she resisted idle worry.
High Queen. Are you aware of the Elfin Lour'den’ Ceremony's requirements?
Having been deeply placed in her thoughts as to what she might now do against the Wizard, San'lr'in’ ate little of the eve's meal. She shook her head to help clear it from her thoughts, then turned to her lover, “I apologize, My Desire. What was your question?"
Sle'nel’ stared at her for a moment, then said, “I asked no question, San'lr'in'."
The voice spoke to both, “I apologize, High Queen. My daughter. I was asking The High Queen if she knew of the requirements of the Elfin Lour'den’ Ceremony?"
"No. I know these not."
"Then may I be permitted to be your guide in this regard, as is required?"
"Guide?"
Sle'nel’ nodded, “A guide is required. I have asked my Mother if she would do this for us; for you."
"Who is to be your guide?"
"Srn'threln', the Elfin High Counselor. She has agreed to such."
As if signaled, Srn'threln’ came to The High Queen and Sle'nel'. She knelt and bowed her head, “High Queen."
San'lr'in’ turned toward Srn'threln', surprised in the moment, “Rise, Elfin High Counselor. Tell Me your need."
She rose and nodded her head once to San'lr'in', “I must begin the Lour'den’ Ceremony, Highness. It is the moment."
"Now?"
"You must both become prepared. We must begin the cleansing."
San'lr'in’ turned to her lover, “The cleansing, Lover? What have you kept from Me?"
Sle'nel’ laughed, “All will be complete by midturn meal next turn, my Love.” But after a moment, she became serious, “If you wish this not to occur, my Queen, then we can ju—"
San'lr'in’ placed a finger to Sle'nel's lips, silencing her words, “Fear this not. I have vowed as such, and I am most honored in this regard."
"It will not be free from pain, as you are not Elfin, my Love."
"I know this well, and I would endure any pain for you, My Desire.” She turned to Srn'threln', “As is your will, Elfin High Counselor, I will comply."
Srn'threln’ nodded, silenced all those at the eve's meal, then began, “The High Queen of The Realm and the Elfin Queen of El'fs'nd'lle have asked for the Elfin Lour'den’ Ceremony so that they may be joined as one in their union. We, as the newly-returned Elves, are most excited and well pleased in this request, as this is our most sacred of bonding moments. Our High Queen and our Elfin Queen have honored us through this request. The Elfin Queen has requested me as her guide, and our High Queen has agreed to Is'en'nel’ has her guide. The ceremony begins with the Cleansing Ceremony this eve, and will end at next turn's midturn meal, to which you are all invited to share in the joy of this Elfin union."
She turned to San'lr'in’ and Sle'nel', “High Queen. Elfin Queen. From this moment until the morn, you will be separated so as to proceed with the Cleansing Ceremony. Elfin Queen, if you would come with me?"
San'lr'in’ was fully surprised, “Separated?"
Is'en'nel’ laughed softly, “Come, my Queen. It is the moment for you to leave for the Cleansing Ceremony. It is for one eve only."
Sle'nel’ rose, turning to San'lr'in', “Are you certain, San'lr'in'?"
San'lr'in’ pulled Sle'nel’ to her, embracing her, “I would cross rivers of fire to be with you, My Desire."
Sle'nel’ held her tightly, feeling guilty for making her lover go through this ceremony, “I wish not for you to cross rivers of fire, San'lr'in'. I just wish for us to be together through the eternity."
San'lr'in’ held Sle'nel’ more tightly to her, “Shhhh, My Elf. From the moment I first saw you, I also wished for us to be together for the eternity. And now the moment has arrived. I will think of you through the eve. And I will see you again in the morn."
"I love you, San'lr'in'."
"As do I you, My Desire. Most truly this."
Ann'wn and Meera came up to her Queen, Ann'wn speaking to the voice, only, “High Wizard Sorcerer. There is a slight issue."
She heard the voice reply, “What is this, Force Leader?"
"The High Queen must not be left unguarded. It is my sworn duty, as well as The Realm's requirement."
There was silence for a moment, during which San'lr'in’ looked at Meera, thinking her an overly strong warrior woman, and glad that she was united into The Realm's service. Finally, they heard the response, “As is your need, Force Leader, but provide only two or three, and only your most special of guards, as this is a secret ceremony."
Ann'wn asked her Queen, “Would you permit the Warrior Woman and I to this duty, my Queen?"
San'lr'in’ nodded, “As you wish, Force Leader."
Is'en'nel’ prompted The High Queen, “We must begin, my Daughter's lover. We will journey to the Lake of Mirrors, where the moon is now beginning its dance upon the waters, in your honor."
"I know not this lake."
"Follow the path past the Reflection Pool. It will lead you to the Lake."