Chapter XII A Well-aimed Knife

As they neared the Valley's western gate, Ann'wn saw that a small group awaited them. She sent one of the guards running ahead up to the messengers. While The High Queen's band of travelers kept moving steadily toward the gate, Ann'wn saw that the guard she had sent remained with the small group, indicating that all was safe.

She turned her horse back to her Queen's, “Your Counselors await you, my Queen."

San'lr'in’ removed her hood and looked at the small group now awaiting them, “Indeed. Once in the Valley, they are never far from Me, are they?"

Ann'wn knew that The High Queen's comment wasn't a question, “So it would seem, Highness. Would you like me to dispatch them?"

San'lr'in’ shook out her hair, then sighed, “No need. I suspect that they will enter with us and that a procession has been readied."

"Yes, Highness. It is so. I saw the scout just early this morn. They are well notified. Would you like me to have them entertained away from you?"

San'lr'in’ smiled lightly at the thought, but shook her head slightly, “Let them be. They are merely anxious for our return."

The procession was as any other to San'lr'in', but was a special one to nearly every other in the Valley. They were excited about their High Queen's return, seeing the returned Elves, and that all The Realm's forces were coming together in the Valley for the War Council. As usual, the Counselors rode first, followed by Sume’ and Sele', The Healer, The High Counselor, the Elves and finally The High Queen. She rode alone this turn, with no one at her side, and found that she greatly missed Sle'nel'.

Remain as safe, My Elf.

The procession had begun just at the entrance to the Valley's town, and wound its way slowly into the center of it, then toward The High Queen's complex. Sume’ was surprised at the length of the procession and all the ceremony and formality it afforded.

Musicians were scattered throughout the long procession, providing the ceremonial music along the formal journey. The procession path was fully lined by most of the Valley's residents as well as many throughout The Realm, now come to hear the War Council.

As they at long-last neared the center of the Valley's town, Fon'elnn’ rode up to Ann'wn with great haste, ignoring the crowded path about her, “Force Leader! Halt this procession!"

Ann'wn heard the urgency in The Master's voice, “What is it?"

"Krl'lnn'. She is no longer riding in the processional."

Ann'wn's concern rose instantly, “Find her!"

Ann'wn informed her guards, and all went on high alert, searching the crowd for her. While neither the crowd nor the processional noticed the guards’ new focus, The High Queen raised an eyebrow, sensing the urgency now about her.

After giving her commands, Ann'wn positioned herself next to her Queen, a most unusual placement that didn't go unnoticed by those riding in the procession. Taking no notice of The High Queen's reaction, Ann'wn kept her eyes scanning the crowd, then turned to her, “My Queen. We must remove you from the processional."

Fon'elnn’ had gone into the crowd searching for Krl'lnn', while Queen Erthrn also positioned herself next to San'lr'in', beginning to take her reins from her.

The High Queen looked at Erthrn, “I am able to guide My own horse, Queen Erthrn."

"We must remove you from this procession, and quickly so, High Queen. You are in great danger."

Ann'wn's eyes kept scanning the crowd, as did Erthrn's. Ann'wn hoped beyond hope that her guards would find Krl'lnn', and quickly so. She knew that she and Erthrn would have to remove The High Queen forcefully from the procession, but also knew that it had to be done. She turned to her.

"My Queen. You must allow us to remove you from the procession."

San'lr'in’ turned to her and spoke quietly, “Force Leader. We have only a few moments remaining. Surely you will find our young trai—"

Ann'wn had begun to look away from her Queen in order to scan the crowd, but heard The High Queen suddenly halt her statement, providing a pained moan in its place. Ann'wn jerked her head back to her Queen, instantly on high-alert. Her worst imaginings came true as she saw The High Queen visibly grimace while her hand moved to the knife that had sunk so deeply into her chest.

Noooo! Not The High Queen!

San'lr'in's now free-flowing blood quickly began to discolor her gown. Ann'wn watched in slow-motioned horror as The High Queen's eyes closed, and as she began to fall off her horse.

Erthrn saw the knife enter near her Queen's heart, and instantly reached over and grabbed The High Queen by the waist just as San'lr'in’ had begun to collapse, pulling her onto her own horse. As soon as she had The High Queen firmly against her, she kicked her heels into her horse and raced through the crowd, yelling at Ann'wn, “BRING THE HEALER!"

Ann'wn was fully in shock, but well trained. The moment she saw that her Queen had been wounded, and that Erthrn was taking The High Queen to her quarters, Ann'wn went to The Healer.

"Quickly. Jump onto my horse. The High Queen has been wounded."

The Healer wasted no moments on questions, doing Ann'wn's bid without hesitation, but saw that the report had already begun to spread throughout the crowd. As Ann'wn placed her arm around The Healer's waist, they began their race toward The High Queen's complex in hopes of saving their High Queen.

* * * *

Sle'nel’ was walking along the peaceful paths of El'fs'nd'lle while Srn'threln’ was giving her the reports of the turn, “Many throughout The Realm already ask of our service. I would advise against as such until our numbers are more fully returned, Queen Sle'nel'."

Sle'nel’ thought of San'lr'in', fully understanding why she sighed as often as she did, “Must you call me by this most ridiculous of titles? Please try to refrain from such. And I agree. You will overly risk the Elves’ safety. But who requests your service?"

"The Highland communities have requested that we supply our healing to their community. They have apparently gone many cycles with little health care."

"Are they not within The High Queen's care?"

"They are, but choose to remain apart from such. They are small folk, and wish not to be noticed. The Elves cared for them throughout our moments, but since our departure, they have suffered."

"We can inform The High Queen. Between El'fs'nd'lle and the Valley, something can be done without overly risking the newly-returned Elves. Or perhaps they might wish to visit El'fs'nd'lle."

Srn'threln’ nodded and provided three other requests, while Sle'nel’ listened and responded as best she could.

"Have all our newly-returned Elves now been fully returned to our great winged unicorns?"

"Not as yet, but nearly so. There are yet three or four more ceremonies, my Queen. But all are fully excited."

Sle'nel’ nodded, smiling at the thought, “I have seen them flying above in our skies. It is a most wondrous sight."

Srn'threln’ looked puzzled, “I know this not, Elfin Queen. In our moments long prior, there were many more of them. It is strange to us to see so few as this."

When they reached the end of their path, they stood at the edge of one of the great waterfalls in their valley. Sle'nel’ looked around, “I have not yet been here, but it would appear that we have reached the end of our path."

Srn'threln’ smiled and gestured to behind the waterfall, “You have not this memory, my Queen? Please follow me. There are many surprises behind these falls."

Sle'nel’ looked at Srn'threln’ and smiled in return, enjoying the rare moment of exploration. She began to follow Srn'threln', when suddenly she sensed something of urgency.

She stood completely still, exploring the feeling, when finally she recognized it, “Srn'threln'. I must leave. Immediately."

Srn'threln’ saw that Sle'nel’ had received a feeling, “Is there something I might do for you, Queen Sle'nel'?"

"I must leave. San'lr'in’ has been wounded. Please call R'lodin'lindor to me."

* * * *

"Does she live?"

Ann'wn had been pacing near where The High Queen had been laid, watching as The Healer had first removed The High Queen's gown, then slowly inspected the knife's entry point.

The Healer was singularly focused upon her Queen, so didn't respond to Ann'wn's question.

The Healer's slow and methodical movements were overly painstaking to Ann'wn, “Healer! Does she live?"

The Healer looked up to her lover, “Have my assistants bring my surgery knives and instruments, Force Leader. With the greatest of haste. And bring Sume'. I may have need of her magic. You must ensure that I am not bothered."

As Ann'wn left the room, Erthrn quietly asked, “Has it touched her heart?"

The Healer shook her head, “I know not, but it must be close if it has not."

"Will she live?"

The Healer looked up at Erthrn, removing her eyes from her Queen. She sighed deeply, “I know not, Erthrn. She is bleeding on the inside. And if it has touched her heart, removing the blade may create more damage."

Erthrn placed her hand on The Healer's shoulder, “Her life is in your hands, Healer. Much is placed on your shoulders now."

"As if I knew this not, Erthrn?"

While waiting for her assistants and surgical instruments, she cleansed what she could of The High Queen's wound.

She felt The High Queen's hand on her arm, “Sume'."

"Sume'? Your sister?"

The voice was strained and sounded in great pain, barely a whisper, “The Realm must not lose My powers."

She placed her hand on The High Queen's cheek, “You are not going to die while in my hands, High One."

San'lr'in’ opened her eyes, and The Healer saw that a few tears escaped, “This knife, Healer ... is in My heart. There is nothing to be done. I can feel it as so. I am dying. I ... must ... transfer ... My ... powers."

Before The Healer could argue further, Sume’ entered the room, “I am here, Healer. How is she?"

Even in her deep pain, San'lr'in’ had heard Sume's entrance. As Sume’ came close to her, The High Queen conjured a small ball of energy to her, said a few words, then held it out to Sume', “There are ... no moments. I am dying. Take this into you. You are ... of the line. Tell My Elf ... of My love."

Giving her no moments to think on the moment, San'lr'in’ took Sume's hand and placed the ball of light into it, then moved it to Sume's chest. She softly spoke another spell, then pressed the ball of light firmly against Sume's chest, where it disappeared. Sume’ suddenly felt an immense surge of overwhelming power within her, astounded in all the memories and powers that had overly quickly become hers, but also saw that The High Queen had passed out. She stood fully shocked in the moment, trying to come to some understanding of what had just been given to her.

When The Healer's assistants finally arrived, she gave an order to Ann'wn, “Bring Sele’ to me, and have her wait. She may also be needed."

She took the surgical knife from one of her assistants, then took a last look at Sume’ and Erthrn, “No one must know of what just occurred, Erthrn."

Erthrn nodded, “It will not leave this room, Healer."

Sume’ spoke quietly, yet fully surprised in the moment, and deeply saddened, “You must save her, Healer. I cannot carry this burden. She alone can hold these fully within her. There is no understanding of the immensity of these powers. I am, in truth, more overwhelmed in the moment than I ever could have expected. She must be saved. No other can carry these powers."

"I am trying, Sume'."

"Then try harder, Healer! You know not these powers. These are an impossible burden to hold. We cannot keep this realm safe without her. You must try harder, Healer.” Sume's desperation and concern were without question, her tone more than frantic. “Save her!"

But while The Healer was the most skilled Healer in all The Realm, even she recognized that her skills meant nothing given the great damage that had been done to The High Queen. After making the needed incisions, she removed the blade carefully so as to not create further damage, then looked at The High Queen's heart, shaking her head.

"What is it, Healer?"

She looked up and across the room to Ann'wn, “Even with all my training, I haven't the skills or abilities to stitch together this heart."

Suddenly, The Healer saw that The High Queen's heart halted its beating. She reached inside into the heart and used her hand to massage it, forcing it to continue its life-saving beating, knowing that she had already risked The High Queen's life greatly by doing so.

"Bring Sele'. Take my assistants away from this room. With haste!” She looked at Erthrn, “Quickly. Come and breathe life into our Queen."

Erthrn did as commanded, but was greatly saddened and concerned over her High Queen's condition. She knew nothing of what The Healer was planning.

"Sume'. Cleanse yourself. You must now save our High Queen."

"How am I to do this?"

"You have her powers. You now hold the power that she used to save your life. Think, Sume'. We cannot lose her."

Sume’ looked frantic, “No, we cannot lose her, most certain. You are correct, Healer. And I know fully that I cannot command such powers as these. Who is she that can do as such? They are a heavy burden.” Sume’ went to Sele’ as she spoke, then placed her hand on Sele's head, sending her a message.

"High Queen gave you her powers?"

"She knew she was dying, Young One. Help me do this?"

Sele’ nodded, “I know the spell, but I haven't the power."

"I do, but remain uncertain of the spell."

Sume’ looked at Sele', who was now standing in a chair near her, “You speak the spell, and I will supply the power. Then let us hope that this will be enough. I may be The High Priestess, but San'lr'in's powers are far beyond anything of which I am aware."

Sele’ concentrated for a moment, “I cannot recall all the spell to me without my powers."

Sume’ grew hysterical, “You must, Young One! CONCENTRATE! This is your High Queen."

Sele's voice was now soft but firm, “This is my Mother, Aunt High Priestess. Give me but a moment.” In spite of Sele's youth, her bloodline from the long prior High Queens allowed her a calm and assured stance no matter the moment as she searched deeply into her memories for the needed spell.

Both Ann'wn and Erthrn were surprised, “Your Mother?"

Sume’ looked up at her, “I am not surprised in this, given the Spirit Mothers. Now, call this spell to you, and quickly so. I command this as so."

"Yes, Aunt High Priestess.” She concentrated for a moment, “I have it."

The Healer spoke to Erthrn as she removed her own hand from The High Queen's heart, “Erthrn. It is the moment to halt the breathing."

Working quietly together, Sele’ cited the spell as Sume’ provided the necessary power that The High Queen had given to her in desperation. As when The High Queen had returned Sume's life to her, the moments for such were intense and long, requiring many powers and many spells. The Healer watched quietly through her own desperation, looking at her now dead friend and former lover lying so cold and quietly before her.

Who is she, indeed, that pulls so much love and devotion to her?

Suddenly, as had occurred when The High Queen had restored Sume's life, and as lightning seemed to occur about them, The High Queen's heart began to beat again on its own. The Healer watched in amazement its first new beatings. At the same moment, The High Queen drew in a deep breath, then moaned. It was the most welcomed wondrous sound of great pain The Healer had ever heard.

The Healer placed her hand on The High Queen's forehead to remove some of the pain.

To herself she spoke, “She is with great pain, but I care not. She lives."

She began to close the wound, noticing that the heart seemed to have already begun its healing. She smiled as she worked the many moments necessary to close the wound completely, then looked up at Sume’ and Sele’ for a quick moment, “You did it!"

When she was done, and when she was done fully bandaging The High Queen's wound, she moved to another cleansing bowl and began to remove the blood from her arms and hands.

"Will she live, Healer?"

Deep in her own thoughts and relief of the moment, she had forgotten that others were about. She turned and looked at them, “It is certainly my plan that she does as such, but now it is up to her."

Sume’ looked at Sele', “Do you know how I might return her powers to her?"

Sele’ nodded, “I think so. But you will have to do it. I recall the spell she used to do as such."

"Can it be done without harming her?"

Sele’ nodded again, “They are part of her after all these moments. It will make her feel improved by having them returned. The process carries pain only in the removal of them."

"This is not so, Young One. There was great pain as the Deep Mystics instilled these into her."

"But they have now become a part of her, Healer. All will be well."

Erthrn placed her hand on Sume's arm, “The High Queen wouldn't have these great powers lost to The Realm, High Priestess. You must be certain she will live."

Sume’ looked squarely into Erthrn's eyes, “And I wouldn't have this great one lost to The Realm, Erthrn, my lover. It is not the powers we need to save, Erthrn. It is the woman that now lies before us.” She moved her glance to her gravely wounded sister, examining the limp body lying before her, “Many can wield these powers, but none so greatly as this one.” She touched her hand gently to her sister's cheek, “And this I now have learned fully, as never prior. For all my prior moments, I have been jealous of her powers, but I was wrong to be as such. She was chosen with great wisdom, Erthrn. It is this woman that must be saved. These powers mean nothing without her. I most certain cannot command them. They are useless without her."

Erthrn nodded and backed away, “You speak with great wisdom, High Priestess. Return her powers to her."

As Sele’ had done when reciting the life-giving spell, she placed her hand on Sume's head, “I am prepared."

Sume’ nodded, then held her hands out as The High Queen had done when transferring her powers. Sume’ was pleased when she saw the ball of energy form in her hands. After she had moved The High Queen's powers back into the ball of energy, with some pain, she began to place the ball of light into The High Queen's chest, when Sele’ suddenly halted her, “No, Aunt High Priestess! These must enter through her mind. Place them into her head. She placed them in your chest only for safekeeping. Her mind will re-incorporate them."

The Healer was surprised to see The High Queen's body physically jerk as Sume’ transferred the powers back into her. After a few moments, The Healer could see that The High Queen's breathing returned to a more normal pattern. Suddenly realizing that she had been holding her own breath, she breathed a deep sigh of relief.

San'lr'in’ opened her eyes, looking in great pain from the incident, “My powers ... must not be lost."

The Healer moved close to The High Queen's face and spoke softly to her, “Then you must remain alive, San'lr'in'. It is the only way to save them for The Realm. Save yourself, High One."

The High Queen moaned quietly, yet in great pain, and stared at The Healer for a moment. She turned her head toward Sume', placed her hand on her sister's arm, then closed her eyes and drifted into unconsciousness.

* * * *

The Mystics of the Valley were in full shock as to the attempted assassination. Many of those who had gathered to watch the procession remained to hear word of their High Queen. Even The High Queen's Counselors waited in their meeting room for any word that might come their way. There was no report to lift their spirits, though, as The High Queen continued fully in her unconsciousness.

The Counselors discussed the Valley's law regarding such an incident, and decided to fully ignore it for the moment. They had no desire to instate another as temporary Queen, choosing to remain on the positive side.

While all those close to The High Queen tried to remain with great hope, they well concealed their deep worries. Mil'der'in was standing around dazed, fully shocked from the moment, knowing well the consequences should The High Queen die. Her thoughts were so filled with disbelief that she found herself fully paralyzed in the moment, not knowing what to do, where to go, or what to say. She paced the hallway endlessly.

She must live!

The moment was quietly desperate for all those now waiting any word of the outcome. The Valley's residents, in their own display of shock and dismay, waited outside The High Queen's complex for any word. The Valley was so quiet in its shock that it was if a death toll had been commanded.

Sume’ and The Healer had refused to leave The High Queen's side. The Healer continually checked her breathing and heart rate, while Sume’ remained unusually quiet, standing vigilantly near her. They both absolutely forbade any entrance into The High Queen's chamber.

A guard informed Ann'wn, “Queen N'orn'nntil’ of the Women of the Waters requests permission to provide her healing for The High Queen. She has ridden a long journey to arrive here so quickly."

Ann'wn knew the answer prior to it being asked, but asked it anyway. The response was quick and short, “No. Her magic is not needed."

The moment The Healer had completed the removal of the knife, she had told Ann'wn to send for Sle'nel'. But there was little expectation that she would arrive within the moments necessary.

For a brief moment while tending her Queen, The Healer looked at her own lover, “Has Krl'lnn’ yet been found?"

Ann'wn shook her head, “Not as yet, but she cannot leave the Valley, so she will be found. All are now looking for her. In truth, I have never prior seen the forces as motivated. They have taken this most personally."

Erthrn had become overly anxious to stand around and wait, so decided to take part in the search for Krl'lnn'. Her anger was so deep that she wished she could personally take charge of this would-be assassin's punishment, but knew it wasn't to be. It had already been commanded by Mil'der'in, who was now acting in place of The High Queen, that once captured, Krl'lnn's punishment would wait until The High Queen's return to her reign.

"When will the messenger reach Sle'nel'?"

"This turn, perhaps, but likely the turn-next."

Besides removing San'lr'in's pain, The Healer knew she had done all she could for her. She wished that Sle'nel’ could arrive soon so as to provide the voice that would compel The High Queen back into The Realm. In her concern and exhaustion, she had forgotten about R'lodin'lindor.

A large commotion suddenly occurred outside The High Queen's complex, and Ann'wn was immediately alerted. She followed the guards to the outside courtyard where many now awaited any report regarding The High Queen, but upon her arrival, she halted, fully stunned at the sight now before her. Sle'nel’ had arrived on R'lodin'lindor, and so had fifteen of the newly returned Elves, all on their own great flying unicorns.

The Mystics of the Valley and The Realm had never seen such a sight during this era, and all were now staring at the great winged horses that consumed the entire courtyard, awed by their great size and presence. Such a sight was held only in the long-prior stories, so the guards looked as bewildered as the Valley's residents, none knowing what to do. Sle'nel’ gave no acknowledgement to those surrounding her, moving quickly toward The High Queen's chambers.

When she saw Ann'wn, she frowned, “How was this allowed to occur, Force Leader?"

She kept her pace quick, forcing Ann'wn to run after her, “A surprise, Elfin Queen. Krl'lnn escaped during the procession. She will be found."

Sle'nel’ suddenly halted and turned back to Ann'wn, glaring, “You are not telling me that she is yet uncaptured, are you, Force Leader?"

Mil'der'in had come to greet Sle'nel', and overheard the conversation, “All our resources have been turned to her capture, Queen Sle'nel'."

Sle'nel’ turned to Mil'der'in, “She is mine to punish, Mil'der'in."

Mil'der'in placed her hand on Sle'nel's arm, trying to calm her, “We will speak more on this later, Queen of the Elves. For now, let us take you to see—"

Sle'nel’ glared at Mil'der'in, “You may be in charge of The Realm for the moment, Mil'der'in, but if I must, . will go hunt Krl'lnn myself. Force me not to this, as I and the other Elves have better things to do at this moment."

Ann'wn stepped forward, “Sle'nel', she cannot—"

Sle'nel’ turned, giving her full anger upon Ann'wn, “The High Queen's life is your responsibility, Force Leader."

Ann'wn lowered her head and was about to respond, but Mil'der'in acted as she knew The High Queen would desire of her, “Sle'nel'. Halt this. Ann'wn's forces are doing all they can at this moment. The High Queen awaits your presence, but she is fully unconscious and hasn't returned to us since The Healer removed the knife."

Sle'nel’ was yet angry, but conceded the moment, “I want Krl'lnn as mine."

Mil'der'in stepped forward even further, trying to soften the moment, “I cannot make this vow to you, Elfin Queen, but I will vow that no one will kill Krl'lnn until The High Queen's return to The Realm."

Srn'threln', Sle'nel's High Elfin Counselor, had finally caught up to her. She bowed her head to both Sle'nel’ and Mil'der'in, “Mil'der'in, High Counselor, thank you for your words of negotiation. I am certain that Queen Sle'nel’ hears them well, but is deeply concerned in the moment, as are we all. Perhaps we should take her to The High Queen's chambers and continue this conversation at another moment?"

She turned to her Queen, “Elfin Queen. If must be, we will find the traitor. So there is no need for you to be concerned on this. Think only of The High Queen on this moment."

Mil'der'in bowed her head briefly to Srn'threln', relieved for the voice of reason, “Elfin High Counselor. We are pleased for your presence, even in spite of the sorrowful moment.” She motioned her hand, “Please, as you say, let us take Sle'nel’ to our High Queen."

Sle'nel’ looked at Mil'der'in for one last moment prior to going to her High Queen's chambers, “I will concede the moment, High Counselor of The Realm, but know this. If The High Queen dies, there is not one in this Realm that will not feel my wrath. Not one."

Mil'der'in bowed her head once, “And I will stand willingly at your side as you do this, Queen Sle'nel', with my full understanding and approval."

Mil'der'in's statement was enough to finally soften the moment. Sle'nel’ took a deep breath while placing her hand on Mil'der'in's arm, then spoke in a more controlled fashion, “Thank you for your patience with me, High Counselor. The moment is not an easy one."

Mil'der'in took Sle'nel's arm and wrapped it into her own, “I understand, Sle'nel'. I feel as such anger within me, as well. Come. You need to see to your lover."

Sle'nel’ entered the room with no notice of anything or anyone except her lover, now laying upon a table. She went directly to her, looking at her carefully. She placed a hand gently on San'lr'in's forehead, “What has this Realm done to you, my Love?"

She bent down close to San'lr'in's ear and whispered, “Return to me, my Love. Remember our stars. Return to me. Come home to me, San'lr'in'."

Everyone in the room was hoping for a miracle, but saw no change in The High Queen. The Healer had been sleeping lightly as Sle'nel’ entered, but moved slightly away from The High Queen as Sle'nel’ came to her. She watched The High Queen's breathing and heart rate closely as Sle'nel’ spoke to her, seeing a slight change. She was pleased, but kept the knowledge to herself, not wishing to interrupt the moment.

Sle'nel’ moved closer to her Queen's face, “If you return not to me soon, my Love, I will be forced to find and torture Krl'lnn’ on my own. And if you die, I will have the entire Realm consumed into the Sorrows, my Queen. Know this as truth. I vow to you that I will do as such."

There was no doubt in anyone's mind that Sle'nel’ would keep her vow.

Sle'nel’ listened quietly while The Healer gave her a report on The High Queen's condition, her eyes intently focused on The Healer and her words. When the report was completed, she turned back to her lover, speaking softly to her while she brushed the hair gently away from her face, “I am so sorry for this, my Love. I should have been with you to prevent as such."

Her heart fell deeply into her chest as she examined her lover's condition. Sle'nel’ saw that her lover's eyes, now closed firmly against The Realm, looked saddened even in their unconsciousness. The long moments passed by as if The Realm itself had halted for all eternity, but no one noticed. Sle'nel’ bent down and gave San'lr'in’ a soft kiss upon her lips, “Feel me, my Queen. Feel my need of you.” She kissed her gently and sweetly once again, “Hear my vow, San'lr'in'. If you die, I will hold the entire Realm responsible for your death. I vow this to you, my Love."

As moment after long, slow moment passed by as if all the moments had come to a grinding halt, so did everyone's hopes of The High Queen's return. The Healer watched as Sle'nel’ bent down once more to The High Queen's face, kiss her softly, then waited for another long moment. The Healer continued to watch, wondering as to what was occurring, unknowingly holding her breath tightly to her, her eyes beginning to widen in surprise. Suddenly, Sle'nel’ laughed softly, then rose. The Healer saw that a smile was upon her face.

As Sle'nel’ again told San'lr'in’ of her vow to consume The Realm within the Sorrows, San'lr'in’ had finally heard and returned a comment, “Then I best live, My Desire."

Unknown to The Healer, The High Queen had kept herself within a meditation so as to avoid the deep flaming pain within her. When Sle'nel’ had told them of The High Queen's comment, The Healer, finally relieved, breathed once more, then quickly provided even more healing and removal of the pain.

She saw The High Queen wince slightly, “I am removing some of your pain, High One. But I most sincerely and humbly welcome your return to The Realm. We have missed you greatly."

The High Queen opened her eyes a little and spoke softly and with obvious pain, “With this pain, it is no place I wish to be, Healer. What have you done to Me?"

The Healer laughed, “The tale is overly amazing to believe, my Queen, in truth, even to me. It is enough that you are returned to us."

The High Queen raised her arm toward her sister, “High Priestess. Thank you for what you have done."

Sume’ frowned, “I know not if what I have done is for the good, San'lr'in', as much now awaits you. It is no easy task for me to return your life to you so that you can face the Wizard of the Ravens.” She looked up to her lover and Ann'wn, a deep frown yet upon her face, “Queen Erthrn. Force Leader. Inform The Realm: The High Queen lives!"

* * * *

By the next turn, The Healer had removed enough of the pain that San'lr'in’ was able to speak for a short while. She called for her sister.

"Sume'n'tinel'ti'non. Much is needed from you at this moment. The War Council must begin, and you must tell them of the Wizard of the Ravens."

Sume’ looked down at the sister she had once wished dead, and saw her great dedication to The Realm. She felt her heart soften to her in a fashion that hadn't prior occurred. So that her sorrow and love wouldn't show, she tried to lighten the moment, “Is it not enough that you nearly died, Boring One? The Realm can take care of itself for a moment."

The High Queen raised her right hand, the only part of her that seemed to cause no pain when moved, and touched Sume's arm, “Take care of Mil'der'in during the War Council. The Deep Mystics will demand much of her."

"I can control the Deep Mystics.” Sume’ lowered her brows, “Why did you give me your powers?"

"I was dying. You are My sister. You would know what to do with them."

No one had ever granted her such acceptance, “But they are a High Queen's powers, San'lr'in'. They should have gone to Mil'der'in."

"No. This is not truth, High Priestess. They must remain in the line. If I die, you must become High Queen."

"This is outrageous, San'lr'in'. You must be delirious. Mil'der'in is trained for such. And I cannot carry such powers. In truth, no one can, except you!"

"The powers are of the line, as is the position. Transferred to another not in the line, they are halved in their strength.” San'lr'in’ was weaker than she had ever felt, even given that she knew the edge of death well, “You took a great risk to return them to me. I could have died. The Realm would never again see these powers."

"I knew that if they were returned to you, you would be compelled to live."

San'lr'in’ stared at her for a moment, her emotions deeper than she had the strength to bring forward, “I am, in truth, most grateful for you, Sume'n'tinel'ti'non."

They discussed the War Council for a moment, then Sume’ nodded, “I will take care of your Realm for you, San'lr'in'. But for the moment, only. You must recover, as my patience has quick limits."

The High Queen spoke with Ann'wn and Mil'der'in briefly, then The Healer demanded, “Enough! Out! Everyone out! She needs rest."

The Healer went to The High Queen, “You have done overly, High One. You must rest. You cannot place such burden on your heart while it yet heals. I cannot lose you again. My heart cannot take it."

The High Queen's eyes pleaded with The Healer, “This table is hard, Healer. Am I here so that I can be easily carried on My last march?"

The Healer laughed, “No, High One. I have no intention of this table becoming your funeral plank. Not by my hands. But if you are ready, I will have you moved to your bed."

The move was difficult for The High Queen, but she suffered it silently as The Healer had the guards move her. When she was finally moved and made as comfortable as possible, Sle'nel’ sat by her side, feeding her. She felt even more weakened after the move.

Her eyes gazed gratefully upon her lover, “You came."

"Why would I not?"

"How did you know of what occurred?"

"The feeling was given to me."

"Ah. The Lour'den Ceremony."

Sle'nel’ smiled, “You cannot get rid of me as easily as this, my Love."

The High Queen moved her hand so as to touch Sle'nel's, “Thank you.” She then let her heavy eyes close, comforted in her lover's presence, her hand remaining on Sle'nel's.

* * * *

Sume’ had begrudgingly allowed herself to be clothed in one of The High Queen's gowns. Her looks were never as radiant as Sam or San'lr'in's, but with The High Queen's attendants now tending her, she looked much finer than prior and even captured a few motivated looks. But Erthrn was yet in Sume's bed every eve, well pleased in the union. The events of the turn allowed Sume’ no notice of anyone's attentions, as she was having to protect Mil'der'in against the aggressive demands of the Deep Mystics.

She stood and tried to remain as she knew her sister would, “Your demand is unheeding of The Realm's Mystics. They cannot survive against the Wizard, and this you well know. You cannot sacrifice them overly easily."

Queen Torsn'dynl’ of the Women of the Trees desired it otherwise, “Sacrifices must be made, and The High Queen's forces are well enough trained. They must attack the Wizard's Keep."

Mil'der'in tried to take back her own authority, “Queen Torsn'dynl'. High Priestess. Perhaps another solution can be found."

Sume’ turned her head slightly and whispered in a tone that left no guessing as to her wishes, “If you cannot do better than this, at least have the intelligence to remain silent. You are overly passive against them. They will consume you."

Sume’ turned back to the War Council, wondering what San'lr'in’ would do in this moment. Not knowing, but knowing well that San'lr'in’ would expect her to moderate rather than fight the War Council, she decided to divert the issue, “We haven't heard from The High Queen's Force Leaders. What have you learned?"

At the end of the long turn, Sume’ reported what she considered to be the unfortunate events of the turn's War Council to San'lr'in', “The Deep Mystics are useless and overly commanding. They are nothing but cowards that use others."

"They are difficult, but necessary. You must find a way to incorporate them into the battle. Their magic is much needed against this Wizard."

"In truth, San'lr'in', they fear her."

"You do not?"

Sume’ waved her hand as if dismissing the notion, “No. If we live, we live. If not, we die. I refuse to fear yet another tyrant."

"Allow Mil'der'in more effort in this."

"She is worthless against them. She simply attempts to negotiate."

"She knows what she is doing, Sume'n'tinel'ti'non. She has negotiated her stance well, prior. Give her the moment to twist their thinking. It is her strength."

"She is weak."

"You are wrong. She is just weak against you."

Sume’ sighed, “I will try, but this entire affair pushes against my limits. How do you tolerate all this idiocy about you?"

Sle'nel’ laughed, “She asks the same, High Priestess. She is just able to display more patience than you."

San'lr'in’ smiled, “She speaks truth. She often hears what I say under My breath, and it is the same as you. They frustrate Me as well. Has the High Counsel spoken as yet?"

"Not as yet."

"They will frustrate you even more than the Deep Mystics."

The second turn of the War Council went as San'lr'in’ had predicted. Sume’ was more than frustrated, but at this moment it was with the High Counselors. She breathed in deeply, then sighed, trying to hold what little patience to her that she had remaining.

"Can The High Queen halt the Wizard, with her powers?"

"Not alone. And there are many others now with the Wizard, High Counselors. Forget not the ravens. They keep her well informed."

"Ravens. Bah! They cannot harm us. They are just birds. We will merely shoot them with our arrows."

Mil'der'in and Sume’ were standing side-by-side as representatives of The High Queen. Mil'der'in overheard Sume’ mutter to herself, “Surely these idiots cannot rule The Realm."

Mil'der'in laughed lightly, and Sume’ turned to her, “I have lost my patience with them. You try to make them see sense."

Mil'der'in looked to her and smiled, “They have just twisted themselves into our net. Watch, High Priestess. This is the moment I have hoped for. Now they are ours."

Mil'der'in turned to the High Counselors, “You have offered a most excellent negotiation, High Counselors, and we will take you at your word. We will be responsible for the removal of the Wizard, while you and the forces that you command will be responsible for the ravens. It is agreed. You can shoot them with your arrows, if you would like. All of them."

Sume’ chuckled to herself, now seeing that San'lr'in’ had been correct. She whispered to Mil'der'in, “Well done, High Counselor. Look at them sputter. But do you believe that they will be able to deal with all these ravens?"

Mil'der'in nodded, “The Elves have already volunteered their services, as well as the services of their great winged horses. We will tell the High Counselors this at another moment, however. After they recover from their shock."

Sume’ laughed aloud and slapped Mil'der'in on the back, “I couldn't have done better."

* * * *

Sle'nel’ had spent her turn with San'lr'in', not caring that she was missing the War Council, “You shouldn't try to sit up, San'lr'in'. It is overly soon."

"I cannot lie upon this bed another moment. I need to get up."

The Healer also objected, “It is overly soon, High One. You will stress your heart."

"It needs to move, Healer, or it will die from lack of use."

Sle'nel’ began to help her rise, saying, “I can think of one movement it would like while lying in the bed."

As she rose, San'lr'in’ clutched her hand to her heart.

"What is it, High One? Are you injured?"

San'lr'in’ shook her head, trying to breathe, “No, Healer. I am fine. My lover just made Me laugh, and it caused some pain."

* * * *

The third turn of the War Council was proving to be more than Sume’ or Mil'der'in could manage. They secretly wished for San'lr'in's knowing presence, but kept their thoughts to themselves. The Force Leaders were arguing amongst themselves this turn, listening to no one except their own voices. No matter what Mil'der'in or Sume’ tried to do, the Force Leaders ignored them, fighting and arguing about who would take first charge against the Wizard. By the late midmorn, Sume’ was throwing her hands up in disgust.

"We will take the first charge."

Erthrn shook her fist, “No. No Private Guard is meant for this. We will, as The High Queen's Force in Rns'deln."

Sume’ kept trying, “Halt this arguing."

Two of the neighboring towns’ Force Leaders had drawn their swords against each other, and Mil'der'in tried to reason with them, “This is idiocy. We shouldn't be fighting against ourselves. We will lose enough lives in this battle against the Wizard. HALT!"

More Force Leaders drew their swords against each other, and the shouting had grown to uncontrollable levels, when suddenly, the sounds began to halt. Everyone turned their heads to the stage on which Sume’ and Mil'der'in were standing, then quickly fell to their knees and bowed their heads.

"Great High Queen."

With the aide of Sle'nel’ on one side of her and The Healer prepared to help at the other, San'lr'in’ had walked to the arena, knowing well the difficulty involved in these gatherings.

She nodded and smiled to Sume’ and Mil'der'in, then faced the War Council with a look that displayed no tolerance for what she had heard, “Rise. Let us conclude our Council with quick agreement."

Queen Erthrn placed her fist over her heart in a Warrior's salute, “We are pleased to see The High Queen returned to her rightful place."

The High Queen bowed her head once to Erthrn, then turned to Sume’ and Mil'der'in, “Tell Me of what has been desired."

Sume’ looked at Mil'der'in, then Mil'der'in recapped the events, “The High Counselors have agreed to take charge of the ravens, with the aide of their own forces as well as with assistance from the Elves and their flying horses."

The High Queen raised an eyebrow and showed a hint of a smile. She nodded, then turned to her Counselors, “I commend you for this display of great courage.” She thought that they looked particularly white-faced over their vow. “The ravens are noted for their great size and determination. They will prove to be a formidable enemy for you. I wish you well in your effort. You will lose many in this fight, but I know you will not surrender to defeat. Beware of their cunning. They will watch you carefully."

She turned slightly back to Sume’ and Mil'der'in, “And the others?"

Suddenly, a loud disruption occurred at the entrance to the arena. Ann'wn came up to The High Queen, “High Queen. The Mungardies have arrived."

San'lr'in’ smiled for a quick moment, “In truth, Ann'wn?"

Ann'wn bowed her head once, “In truth, and in masse. More than twenty, my Queen."

She was pleased, “Excellent. Allow their entrance."

"It will be a tense moment, Highness."

San'lr'in’ turned to the arena, “The Mungardies have arrived, as part of this War Council. I have vowed them safe passage. If any of you raise a sword to them, you will feel My wrath.” Under her breath, she said, “As if I could summon such energy to me at this moment.” Sume’ heard her, locked eyes with her for a moment, then laughed. The High Queen shook her head, smiling.

Ann'wn motioned to the guards, and the Mungardies entered. Per their usual, they displayed no signs of fear. All present at the War Council stood in full disbelief of the moment. It had been across many lifespans prior since the Mungardies and those of The Realm stood together as allies. The Realm's forces stood rigid, forcing themselves against their every long-prior bred instinct to kill the Mungardies that now stood among them.

When the Mungardies entered into the arena, their Force Leader bowed her head as a show of respect, then spoke, “High Queen of The Realm. We accept your invitation to this War Council in order to know how we can stand united in our effort to defeat our great long-prior enemy, the Wizard of the Ravens. We know well this enemy, and know that she is undefeatable if we stand alone."

San'lr'in’ bowed her head in return, “We welcome you to The Realm's War Council. I wish these joined moments between us as customary, but even as not, your agreeing to stand with us against this Wizard provides us with great hope.” She paused for a moment, then asked, “Is the Wizard of the Ravens the reason the Mungardies leave to The UnderGround Passages?"

The Mungardies Force Leader bowed her head in acknowledgement, “Either this or we would have been forced to her service. She has the ability to control our race; a long-prior victory on her part."

"I understand, and in great truth, you are most welcomed.” She turned back to Sume', “Let us continue with the War Council. Where were we?"

"The Realms’ forces argue for who will lead the charge against the Wizard. They all wish this position."

San'lr'in'thel'ineln’ raised an eyebrow once again, then turned back to the War Council, “This is a good report, indeed. You have accomplished much in My absence. As per your desire, you will all lead the charge against the Wizard, each from a different location. My forces will hold back until needed, but given your courage, it would appear that they many go unused. My Force Leader will select the staging point for each of you, and will then give the general call to arms. From there, each of you will act on your own accord, each of you moving toward the Wizard's great Keep.” She paused for a moment, then said as if thinking aloud, “A courageous agreement, but I had thought you would have wished to...” She paused yet again, then waved her hand in dismissal, “It is unimportant. You have made your desires clear, and they are brave ones. I wish you well."

She acted as if she were going to sit so that she could just listen to the remainder of the War Council, when one of The Realm's Force Leaders stepped forward, “High Queen?"

She turned and acknowledged the speaker, “Force Leader Kr'newen. Does your Queen accompany you this turn?"

The woman bowed her head for a moment, then looked back up to The High Queen, “No, High Queen. She will attend the Ruler's Gathering."

"You are free to speak while in this War Council, Force Leader."

"High Queen. It is as you say, that we would each desire to lead the charge, but I would like to know of your thinking in this regard."

Another Force Leader stepped forward, “As would I, High Queen."

"And I, High Queen."

Even the Mungardies’ Force Leader spoke, “I like not this idea of every force attacking the Wizard's Keep, directly. The Wizard will be able to destroy each of us, one-by-one, if this were allowed. What is your plan, High Queen? We know it would not be as stupid as this."

She allowed them the moments to all agree to this, then said, “The Wizard's Keep is stronger than any of you are aware. It will take all our efforts combined to even enter it. The moment will require a single-led effort. This will mean that there will be but one Force Leader for this charge. One that all would obey, without question. I know this Keep well, and it is indestructible without a united effort. But it does have one or two weak points, and these must be our concentration.” She waved her hand once again as if in dismissal, “But I know this is asking much of you. We will remain to your plan."

A moment passed, with some muttering between the Force Leaders, then, “High Queen?"

"Force Leader. You have no need of My leave. Tell us."

"We wish to follow your plan."

"Is this agreed by all of you?"

As a show of unity, they all placed their fisted-hand over their hearts.

"Then so shall it be. Ann'wn is, as ever, My chosen Force Leader. She will give the commands."

"High Queen? Can we defeat this wizard?"

"It will not be your duty to defeat the wizard. That will be up to Me. Your duty is to destroy the Keep."

There was a moment of pause, then, “Can you defeat her?"

The High Queen considered the question for a long moment, then responded, “Perhaps. I know not fully of her abilities and powers. But her Keep is of vital importance. She will be weakened if her Keep is destroyed, giving the better opportunity to defeat her. Part of her strength lies deep within the Keep."

One of the Force Leaders knelt and bowed her head, “My Forces are at your command, High Queen. I will follow it fully."

Another did the same, then another, and so on, until all had given their forces over completely to The High Queen's command.

Even the Mungardies did as such, “We will join this effort only if under your command, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. We know well of your strength and battle wisdom. We will follow no other, and even this is only due to the nature of our joined enemy. For this moment only, High Queen."

San'lr'in’ bowed her head, “I am pleased for this much, Mungardies Force Leader. I accept your conditions.” Then, to all, she said, “Rise, My Force Leaders. I thank you for your support. From this moment on, prepare your forces, as many lives will be lost in this battle. More than we can know."

San'lr'in’ looked at Ann'wn briefly, and Ann'wn caught the meaning, “This War Council is concluded. Gather your forces together at the Southern Boundary of the Valley. We will depart from there in eight turns’ passing. Messengers will be sent to each Force to align our purposes. Prepare well."

Mil'der'in saw that San'lr'in’ looked pale and with great pain, so allowed her the exit she needed, “The Great High Warrior Queen of The Realm now leaves the War Council. We are concluded."

It was everyone's cue to kneel before their Queen as she took her leave. San'lr'in’ leaned heavily onto Sle'nel’ and The Healer, and mouthed the words ‘Thank you’ to Sume’ and Mil'der'in, then returned slowly to her compound.

* * * *

As they camped just outside of the boundaries to Woden, a messenger had been sent informing them of their Highest's arrival. As a show of anticipation, May sent out large amounts of most-welcomed food that she had prepared. Sam laughed, pleased in the moment, knowing that May was looking forward to her return. And she was grateful, knowing that May had finally forgiven her in regard to Sle'nel'.

"You are quiet this eve, Highest. Are you concerned over Woden?"

U'Aine sat next to Sam, along the crest of a small waterfall. Sam looked at her, feeling relieved for U'Aine's most needed presence. Sam had wished to return to Woden, but had felt empty without Meera and Caitha alongside her after so many cycles of their deep friendship. U'Aine's presence had provided a comfort to the empty feeling that had been left to Sam. She know not what U'Aine would think of Woden after all her adventures throughout The Realm, but knew well that Woden could certainly use U'Aine's vast knowledge and calm demeanor.

Sam took U'Aine's hand into her own, wondering if the deep closeness that had come between them was what Sle'nel’ had wished of her, “I was but thinking on all the changes."

U'Aine looked slightly anxious, “Highest. Do I make you uncomforta—"

Sam halted the comment, “No, U'Aine. In truth, I would like you by my side if that also pleases you."

U'Aine moved closer, “I have been separate from any other my entire life, Sam. In all those moments, I have learned well what I most desire. You are that desire, Highest. If you would have me, I wish to be near you at all the moments. I have found the desire of my heart, and I wish not to lose as such. I would willingly die drowning in the icy-blueness of your beautiful eyes."

"Woden is small when but compared to The Realm."

"You consume my mind and body, Sam. I wish only you. The Realm is overly large for me any further. It would be most welcome to take part in a smaller piece of The Realm. A place I could call as home."

"Sle'nel’ once told me that The High Queen gives her peace. I understood not that statement until I met you. You give me peace, U'Aine."

U'Aine laughed, thinking of their few intimate moments, “I hope I stir your blood more than this, Highest. I would rather I turn your insides out and leave you desiring more, as you do me."

Sam smiled and blushed, “Oh, you do that as well. In truth, much so."

"I hope so, Highest. But tell me, do our many cycles difference not bother you?"

Sam shook her head, “No. Most assuredly so."

May sent out more food in the morn, along with Karan, the woman who had taken care of Woden in Sam's absence. Karan rode up to the encampment, accompanied by Keddi.

They both dismounted, then knelt, “Highest."

"Rise, Karan. Keddi. It is but good to see you. How fares our Woden?"

Karan looked tired and worried, “In truth, Highest, it is most excellent to but see your return. There are overly many dealings for Woden these turns, with Fornaith and New Apien. But you look well. How is Jandra?"

U'Aine just listened, wondering who Jandra was. Sam turned to her and quietly explained, “As a young child, Jandra was taken from The Realm and hidden here, in Woden. You know her by her Realm name, Sle'nel'.” She turned back to Keddi, “Keddi. How is Margeria? Has she had the child as yet?"

Keddi blushed, “Soon, Highest. It is good to see you. All of Woden awaits your arrival at the gates. You will be surprised at Woden's appearance these turns. Much has been rebuilt during your absence."

Sam nodded, “I am most anxious to return. I have missed Woden. But Karan, to your question. Jandra is quite well. She and The High Queen will come in one moon to visit Woden. You also might wish to know that Jandra is now called by Sle'nel', Queen of the Elves."

Keddi's eyes widened, “Queen Sle'nel'? Much has changed, Highest."

Karan nodded in agreement, “I have been informed of such, Highest. Messengers arrive quite frequently from The Realm now. Woden is overly excited in having your sister visit Woden. But what are Elves?"

"Not what, but who, Second. They were here prior to the humans. They have been returned to The Realm, but let us save the explanation for a later moment."

"As you say, Highest. Woden awaits."

They rode to the gardens, just outside the gates of Woden, then dismounted. She turned to U'Aine, explaining, “Woden is unlike The Realm. We walk in our processions."

U'Aine dismounted. She examined the gardens, liking the order she saw in them. She turned to Sam, “I understand, Highest. But is Woden not concerned and cautious for your safety?"

Keddi answered, “There will be many guards about her at all the moments, as is our usual. Until recently, we have had few horses in Woden, so our processionals were on foot, only. To have The Highest ride would be to make her stand out as an overly easy target."

Keddi examined U'Aine carefully, wondering who she was, but said nothing. Sam saw her do as such, and provided the introduction, “U'Aine, this is our Second of Defense, Keddi. She was a Woden scout for many turns, doing much as you did in The Realm, remaining hidden and undetected in her purpose. Keddi, U'Aine is the Second Master in The Realm, and is but surpassed only by The High Queen. You will find her fighting skills far beyond what Woden has ever prior known."

U'Aine had been overly long in her role to have any feelings of competition, but saw that Keddi would soon seek her out to test her warrior abilities. She smiled at the thought, finding herself feeling unusually at-home in this strange little town.

As soon as Sam walked with Karan to the gates, Karan nodded to all those about her, and suddenly, the musicians began playing, the drums began their cadence, and the guards formed the procession line, placing Sam, the scholars, the young ones The High Queen had sent to Woden, and the Sorcerer Women in their assigned locations. Karan made the procession to begin. As it did, Sam looked about her, taking a deep breath and smelling the wonderful smells of her Woden. When it was the moment for her to move, she took U'Aine's hand into her own and squeezed it lightly.

"Most surely I cannot walk beside you, Highest of Woden."

Sam smiled, “Most surely you can, Master, if you would do me this honor."

U'Aine's heart leapt with deep pleasure, “I am most grateful for this great gift. I will ever be in your command, my Highest. I will guard you with my life."

Sam blushed, then found that she had changed since her prior relationships. Instead of feeling like she should run away from this commitment, she found herself feeling a deep sense of relief.

"It is I who am but grateful, U'Aine. Thank you for coming to Woden with me. You have made it all the easier."

Both Keddi and Karan saw the moment, and were surprised. In all the cycles Karan had known Sam, she had never prior seen her eyes look as soft and loving as they did upon this moment. She turned to Keddi, “I think our Highest has finally found her long-sought companion, Second."

Keddi smiled at Karan, having become close to her during The Highest's absence, “While we will all miss Jandra, Meera, and Caitha, it is good to have our Highest returned, with a companion. Perhaps her advisors will feel more settled in this moment, as well."

It was a short procession, beginning at the western gate and continuing to the center of the town, where the former Highest's dwelling had once stood. Sam held U'Aine's hand while they walked, smiling at all the women of Woden as well as the men of Hengist.

U'Aine was shocked at seeing all the men. She spoke softly to Sam, “Highest. Do the women live with all these men?"

Sam hadn't prepared U'Aine for such, and laughed lightly, “They live in another Woden community called by Hengist. It is a beneficial partnership between us. The men live together, as the women of Woden live together. They raise the male children while Woden raises the female children."

U'Aine was amazed, “How very odd. I have never prior seen this many men in one location."

"They are most kind, U'Aine. You will learn of this."

Sam nodded and smiled as they walked by, noticing that the clothing styles had changed slightly since her last trip to Woden, that there seemed to be many more numbers now in Woden, and that the men and women stood freely amongst each other at these moments.

Much has changed in Woden. This is but good, though, as we will need to bring them more into The Realm.

She also noticed that the path to the center of town had been paved with flat stones, and no longer a dirt path. She looked further about her and saw that the gardens had been added to extensively, and that a large sheltered meeting area now stood in the former Highest's dwelling location.

As they passed by the shops that had ever been the original dwellings of Woden, she saw that Woden had chosen to upgrade the tiny little shops and dwellings, yet keeping them with their original integrity. And she noticed that some shops now had signs over them, informing all of the type of merchandise was sold. Then she saw two shops that fully but pleasantly surprised her.

They have brought the ways of The Realm to them. We now have places to eat, as Hengist had such places to sit and drink. I wonder what food they serve.

* * * *

"I must speak with The Realm's Rulers."

"This is nonsense, Highness. Sume’ and Mil'der'in can do as such."

The High Queen looked up at her Healer, “Am I always to argue with you, Healer, or may I perform the duties to which I have been assigned?"

"I am your Healer, and I know well what has occurred to your heart. You must rest, Highness. I know fully that you are about to fight against this Wizard. Is this not enough?"

"The Rulers must know of the urgency, Healer. And they are overly stubborn to believe Mil'der'in or Sume'n'tinel'ti'non'. Besides, if I speak not to them, they will think I have grown weak."

The Healer was upset with The High Queen, “I know this, High One. You always informed me of your belief while we were lovers. You continually told me that you must never display weakness. But this is surely stupid, High One. How could they even believe you to be weak in any fashion?"

"I will not argue this further, Healer."

The Healer felt exasperated, but refused to give in, “In truth, my Queen, your infection will grow worse prior to its improvement. You must rest."

The High Queen looked at her straight on, “Shr'dler'in. Hear Me. It makes little difference if I am well or not. I have no choice but to this fight. As must The Realm's Rulers."

"Then find a way to do as you must, while pleasing my needs, my Queen."

The High Queen raised her eyebrow for a moment in thought, then grinned mischievously, “I will find a way to do as you say, Healer."

* * * *

The Rulers’ Gathering was being hosted by the Valley in their indoor amphitheater, and both Mil'der'in and Sume’ had begun the proceedings. Sume’ had informed them of all she knew of the Wizard of The Ravens, but as predicted by The High Queen, The Realm's Rulers would accept no one but The High Queen's words.

"High Priestess. High Counselor."

Sume’ heard the voice and recognized it, highly displeased. She looked with as much patience to the Queen that was now demanding her attention, “What is your need, Queen Herld of Widrenton?” She knew the woman well enough, as Widrenton was a town within a turn's ride from Sansthera. That, and this Queen always seemed to be in great need of something.

She leaned over slightly to Mil'der'in, “This one is ever demanding and needy."

Mil'der'in nodded, “The High Queen calls her high maintenance."

Sume’ was surprised, but smiled slightly, “My sister has a sense of humor about her, then."

Mil'der'in looked confused, “Humor? She looks well not pleased when she says as such."

Sume’ rolled her eyes, “No. I would think not."

Queen Herld asked her question, “Your storytelling has improved, High Priestess, but if this Wizard is as strong as you suggest, then why is it that none of us have heard of her?"

Sume’ tried to control her anger, watching with tightly closed lips as this queen stood as if her words were treasures. As she was about to respond, another ruler rose.

"Queen Herld is correct, High Counselor. The Rulers would surely know of such a potential threat as this. And where is The High Queen?"

Another ruler rose, “I hear that she has died, and that these two now attempt to take over her reign."

"Why do we not wait for battle until we know if this Wizard truly means us harm? Our forces are already over-burdened with The High Queen's missions against the Dungaras and the Mungardies."

"If she has died, then we must select a new High Queen."

Sume’ saw that the Deep Mystics were sitting quietly, merely watching the Mystics and others argue. She thought it strange that they were not participating, and wondered as to their rationale. Given that The Realm's Mystics were considering their own selection of a high queen, she thought that the Deep Mystics would have taken control over the meeting. She looked more carefully and saw that they had slight smiles on their faces, then wondered as to what was so amusing to them.

She glanced around the enclosed amphitheater more carefully, and saw that Erthrn was also sitting quietly by, as if waiting but also looking quite amused. She panned the audience further, seeing that Ann'wn had placed herself in one of the aisles, while Sle'nel’ stood at the back of the arena. Neither looked overly concerned regarding the Rulers’ arguments.

What do they know that I know not?

"If San'lr'in'thel'ineln’ is dead, then who would lead such a battle? I cannot risk my forces on someone with less battle skill. If she were alive, I would gladly give my forces to her command for such an endeavor as this."

"I would do as such, also. But since she is dead, then there is no need of this gathering, or battle."

"If San'lr'in'thel'ineln’ were alive to command it so, then I would also do as such. But I cannot give my forces over to an unknown."

Sume’ listened in disbelief. She turned slightly to Mil'der'in, “These fools believe, in truth, that San'lr'in’ has died."

Mil'der'in smiled and nodded slightly, “They will surely have a moment of surprise, will they not, High Priestess?"

Sume’ saw that Mil'der'in also appeared to be waiting, “What do you know that I know not, High Counselor?"

Mil'der'in nodded her head almost imperceptibly toward their right, “The Rulers will be most sorry for their loose lips in a moment, High Priestess."

Sume’ looked about the area indicated, but remained confused. She saw nothing of note. The Rulers continued in their petty talk against The High Queen, acting as if she had died.

"The High Queen has ever favored my forces, and I have prior given them gladly. I would do as such again if she were yet alive. But since she is not, I will now leave so that I can defend my own town against this wizard."

"She favored my forces even further, Queen Durn'siln. My forces are well-trained and overly brave and fearless warriors. I would give them gladly to The Realm if San'lr'in'thel'ineln’ were yet alive."

The boasting and arguing went on until many of The Realm's rulers had spoken of what would have been their loyalty to The Realm and The High Queen, had The High Queen yet remained alive. Sume’ was perplexed, noticing that Mil'der'in was softly giggling at her side, yet trying to hide it.

She hissed at her, “What are you laughing at, High Counselor? This moment has no humor about it. The Realm is in great danger without their assistance."

Another ruler spoke, indicating toward all the rulers about her in the arena, “High Priestess, surely you see that we would gladly give our forces over to San'lr'in'thel'ineln’ if she were yet alive, but we know fully that she died from the most recent attack. We are deeply saddened for this news, and regret this loss. But we cannot give our forces over to The Realm without her. If she were yet here, we would do so without hesitation."

Sume’ saw the others nodding, except for the Deep Mystics. Another queen responded, “She is correct. Well said, Queen Br'achan."

"Yes. We all would do so, and willingly."

"This is agreed. If she were but here, we would pledge our loyalty and forces. In a quick moment, without question."

Off to Sume’ and Mil'der'in's right side, someone rose, slowly removing the hood that had sheltered her head. She shook her hair loose, smiled slyly, then addressed her audience, “I welcome you to the Rulers’ Gathering and am truly pleased to hear of your generous loyalty to The Realm.” She motioned slightly to Ann'wn, “My Force Leader has recorded your most gracious contributions to this battle. Now that all have agreed to volunteer their forces, we have no further need of this Gathering. Let us conclude until this eve's entertainment, to be held exclusively in your honor. Your usual rooms are prepared for you, and your attendants await you. Please enjoy your remaining moments while in the Valley. We will see you this eve."

As San'lr'in’ had identified herself, all the rulers who had been boasting now merely gasped. As their eyes remained wide in their embarrassment and surprise, Ann'wn calmly held out her arm to The High Queen. The High Queen turned toward the aisle, laid her arm upon Ann'wn's and began her exit from the arena without giving the Rulers any further moments for discussion.

"In truth, my Queen, they were most surprised."

San'lr'in'thel'ineln’ leaned a little more onto Ann'wn's arm, smiling slightly, “They speak overly, and while I like not to use such deceptive tactics, perhaps they have learned to watch more carefully their chosen words."

As they neared Sle'nel', San'lr'in’ held out her hand toward her, while yet leaning on Ann'wn.

Sle'nel’ took her offered hand, “It would appear that you have your forces, my Love."

The Healer had been waiting outside the arena, but had watched the proceedings carefully. She was smiling fully as they reached her, “I am pleased, Highness. That took little effort on your part. Will you do as such for the eve?"

"I will attend the festivities for a few moments only, Healer, as you request."

The Healer studied her for a moment, “You have tired yourself."

San'lr'in’ looked at her Healer, then smiled softly, “Lying down for a few moments does sound somewhat appealing, Healer."

* * * *

Sle'nel’ held San'lr'in’ in her arms, watching over her lover while she slept. She was far from pleased over San'lr'in's deep wound, but found herself enjoying the quiet moment. Her left arm was underneath her Queen's shoulders, and her hand was holding San'lr'in's, so she remained fully unmoving, not wishing to disturb her lover.

After many moments, San'lr'in’ turned on her side, more fully into Sle'nel'. Having the better part of the late after midturn until San'lr'in’ had to be prepared for the eve's event, Sle'nel’ covered her with one of the bed's covers, taking the restful moments to reflect on her life with her lover.

Wishing to take a closer look at the wound, Sle'nel’ moved San'lr'in's unlaced top gently away from it. She examined it for a moment, seeing that it was swollen, but thinking that the Healer had used great skill. She touched it lightly, amazed that so small a wound was at the same moment a most serious one. She laid her hand gently over the wound, feeling her lover's heartbeat.

"What do you feel, My Desire?"

San'lr'in's question had been spoken with her softest voice. Sle'nel’ looked down into her face, seeing that her eyes yet remained close. She found herself amazed that even while looking tired from the deep wound, her beauty remained fully present, “I feel grateful in the beating of your heart."

Saying nothing in response, San'lr'in’ shifted slightly closer into Sle'nel's side, moving her arm carefully across her. Sle'nel’ had noticed that San'lr'in’ winced whenever she moved her left arm, but also saw that she was moving it more often as the moments passed.

In their relatively short moments together, they had seldom lain together in such quietness. Sle'nel’ well knew that whenever San'lr'in’ woke, the quiet moment usually moved to one of more intimacy in her need.

"It could be arranged that Mil'der'in tend to the eve's event."

She saw her lover take in a deep breath as she slightly shifted, “There is no need. I must attend for a few moments, especially after what I did to The Realm's Rulers.” She laughed quietly, amused at the thought. “Although I shouldn't have done as such. Now they will not trust me."

"Why do you laugh?"

San'lr'in’ moved her hand to Sle'nel's breast, enjoying the soft fullness of the feeling, yet had no desire to move the moment further.

"It is not often that I can remove their arrogance from them, so it was an amusing moment, but I now need to show them that all is well between us. Especially since I was able to obtain their forces as easily as this."

* * * *

Since The High Queen was briefly to attend the Rulers’ Gala, Sume’ and Mil'der'in were to attend the entire event, taking the burden off The High Queen. Queen Erthrn had asked to escort Sume', while Mil'der'in was escorted to the Gala by Fon'elnn'. The Healer seldom attended such affairs, ever prior alone, but allowed it this moment so as to keep a closer watch on The High Queen. That, and she now had Ann'wn to attend with her.

Both Sume’ and Mil'der'in took the first dance in The High Queen's absence. Sume’ never attended such affairs, but found herself pleased in Erthrn's company. Many were surprised at the pleasant change in Sume's stance.

"You are beautiful, High Priestess. I am honored to be your escort this eve."

Erthrn held out her arm as Sume’ entered into the room, delighted in her appearance. Sume’ placed her arm on top of Erthrn's, glad for her easy and knowing presence.

"And you are the grandest among them all, my warrior escort. Tell me, Erthrn. Have you now taken the three of us to your bed?"

Erthrn blushed, then shook her head, “No, High Priestess. In truth, I have lain with your youngest sister, but never with The High Queen."

"And why did you not keep Sam in your bed?"

Erthrn pulled Sume’ close to her as the dance began, speaking her truth, “I prefer the more knowledgeable, High Priestess. She was eager, but young."

"But you have desired San'lr'in'. Is this not correct?"

Erthrn kissed Sume’ on the neck as they danced, “Is this not the desire of every warrior throughout The Realm, High Priestess, to be selected by her Warrior High Queen?"

Sume’ laughed freely, enjoying the feel of the kiss upon her neck, “You are quite wise in your answers, Erthrn."

At the late eve, the musicians halted their music while Ann'wn gathered everyone's attention to The High Queen's door, “The High Queen arrives. All kneel for The High Queen."

Sle'nel’ had entered through another door, wishing to allow The High Queen her needed entrance. As San'lr'in’ entered, Sle'nel’ observed everyone's response, but then quickly turned her own attention to her lover. Ann'wn stood in full dress warrior garments, holding her arm out to her Queen. The High Queen laid her arm on top, smiled gently at Ann'wn, then allowed herself to be led.

As they made their way to the center of the room, The High Queen felt slightly uncomfortable, “Force Leader, is My appearance acceptable this eve?"

"Acceptable, my Queen? You are, in truth, astonishingly beautiful. I can barely believe that you have such an injury about you. Why do you ask, Highness?"

The High Queen glanced at Ann'wn, “They look at Me as if I entered in the eve's garments. I must look as I feel."

"Ah. It is always as such, Highness. As always, they find you captivating. There is not a ruler within this room that has not desired you in their bed, my Queen."

San'lr'in’ blushed, but had no more moments to respond. She turned to her audience, “Rise, My Rulers of The Realm. I welcome you this eve with all our grace and offerings. You have displayed your full loyalty to The Realm. With all our forces combined, we will most certainly defeat this long prior Wizard of The Ravens. Your desires for the eve are at our command. Please continue in your enjoyment."

As she spoke, she had searched the room for Sle'nel'. When she completed her obligations, she turned her attentions fully to her lover. Sle'nel’ smiled and came over, holding out her arm to her, “How is it that you can look as beautiful as this with such a wound?"

San'lr'in’ moved her arm from Ann'wn's to Sle'nel's, “It is why I keep My attendants overly close. They deliver magic upon the worst of moments."

The musicians began the music, and San'lr'in’ looked at Sle'nel'. She bowed slightly, “Would the Elfin Queen grant Me the honor of a dance?"

Sle'nel’ bowed her head in return, for show, but whispered, “Should you do this, San'lr'in'?"

San'lr'in’ moved into Sle'nel', embracing her. She smiled gently, “I have long desired to dance with the Elfin Queen."

The High Queen danced two dances, then met with several of the Rulers to greet them and answer their questions. The Healer watched her Queen, seeing that she was tiring.

"Sle'nel', our High One is tired, but the Rulers consume her moments. We must find a way for her to depart from this Gala."

Sle'nel’ was about to respond, when Ann'wn came up, “I have, in truth, a reason for her to leave this event."

Ann'wn went to San'lr'in’ and waited while she completed her conversation with one of the Rulers. When she was done, The High Queen turned to her, “Force Leader. Is all well?"

Ann'wn bowed, “High Queen. We have an urgent matter for your consideration. Your presence is requested."

San'lr'in’ turned back to the Ruler, “Queen Ern'nin'. Thank you for your forces. We will meet again at the end of this battle for a triumphant celebration."

San'lr'in’ placed her arm upon Ann'wn's, allowing herself to be led away.

As they left the Gala, Ann'wn halted in the hallway, “We have finally captured Krl'lnn', Highness."

Erthrn had also been summoned, “Where was the coward hiding?"

"In the Cave of the Owls."

"And she wasn't found sooner than this?"

Ann'wn shrugged, “She has been moving from one location to another.” She turned back to her Queen, “Highness. What would you like done with this one?"

San'lr'in’ raised an eyebrow, thinking on the issue, “I would like to search into this one's thoughts. I need to know who compelled her to this task. She is then yours, Force Leader."

"Is she unharmed?"

Ann'wn looked at Erthrn, “She lives fully, yet with pain about her. It is remarkable that The High Queen's forces were able to contain themselves this much. Her torture will be long, indeed."

The High Queen knew the statement as most certain, “Would it not be far better to simply kill her and be done with it, Force Leader? Why must we rely on this torture?"

"She attempted to assassinate you, Highness. Your forces feel as if they have failed you. They take their blame out on this dark one."

The High Queen began to walk back toward her room, tired from the eve, “As you will, Force Leader, but I want no part of this. She was merely carrying out another's bidding."

"My Queen?"

The High Queen turned back and sighed, “Tell Me."

"We need a Force Leader meeting, Highness, so that the details of the battle can be prepared, as is our custom."

"When?"

"All the Force Leaders are present, Highness. It can begin next turn."

"How many meetings will you require for this, Force Leader?"

"Two to three meetings, my Queen."

Mil'der'in was also present now, having heard that Ann'wn had requested an audience with The High Queen, “I am pleased to make these arrangements, Highness, if you approve of such. With as many as this, may I suggest that we host the meetings at The High Queen's Lodge, my Queen?"

The High Queen narrowed her eyes for a moment, as if displeased, but finally nodded, “Begin the meetings at midturn, next. I leave the arrangements to you, High Counselor. And make your attendance as required, as well as the High Priestess."

"The meetings must be short ones, Force Leader, so that our Queen may get the rest she needs. I will remain nearby so as to ensure her healing."

The High Queen looked at The Healer for a moment, as if preparing to add to her comment. Saying nothing, she quietly left to her rooms.

* * * *

Sle'nel’ could see the tiredness in San'lr'in', “You must rest. I have never prior seen you as weary as this."

San'lr'in’ smiled weakly, “It is so."

"And I have never prior heard you say to such. Perhaps you shouldn't have agreed to the meetings with the Force Leaders."

"These are better than remaining in the Valley. I will have only these meetings as My duties."

The Healer entered, “Are you prepared for a restful eve, Highness?"

San'lr'in’ sat on the side of the bed, nodding lightly, “I am."

The Healer checked on San'lr'in's condition, “You are with pain, my Queen?"

"I have had no strength to enter into My meditations, Healer. I will tend to them in the morn. At that moment, I can tend better to this pain."

"I will be there with you, Highness. But for the moment, allow me to remove some of your pain."

San'lr'in’ nodded wearily, “It would be most appreciated, Healer."

The Healer cast a quick but knowing look to Sle'nel', showing her displeasure at The High Queen's unusual agreeableness. Sle'nel’ raised an eyebrow and nodded her understanding.

Sle'nel’ had woken early the next morn to find The High Queen already risen and gone. She went to The High Queen's gardens, finding San'lr'in’ well into her meditations. She breathed a sigh of relief when she saw The Healer standing beside her.

After many moments of waiting, Sle'nel’ heard The Healer speak, “Slowly, High One. Hear your heart. Listen to the sounds of your breathing."

When San'lr'in’ had exited from her meditations, she turned to Sle'nel’ and held out her hand, “I feel slightly improved this morn, My Desire. Come. Let us to the morn meal. Many await our presence. And I am most starved."

The morn meal was different than any of the other ones that Sle'nel’ had prior experienced in the Valley. Because many others from across The Realm were in the Valley visiting, the meal was hosted in the Grand Meeting Room, in buffet fashion. As they entered, The High Queen's presence was announced, but San'lr'in’ waved off the formality, “Sit, My Valley visitors. Sit and enjoy your meal."

"Do we leave for the dwelling in the woods this morn?"

"Dwelling in the woods?” Then she recalled Sle'nel's reference, “Ah. Where you first came to Me. A wonderful moment, but no. Not the dwelling to which you refer. We will be traveling to The High Queen's Lodge. It is a large wooden dwelling, built to accommodate many. But in truth, it is similar to the smaller dwelling, as it is wooden, with rather dramatic fireplaces in many of the rooms, and is quite different than our dwellings in the Valley. I think you will find it most amazing."

"Is it far?"

"A morn's ride, only."

Sle'nel’ felt a slight uneasiness from San'lr'in', “Do you not like this dwelling?"

San'lr'in’ placed her hand lightly upon Sle'nel's arm, “Your presence will make it all the improved, My Desire."

* * * *

They traveled at a leisurely pace, Ann'wn having no reason to rush her Queen. As they had prepared to leave for The High Queen's Lodge, San'lr'in’ had looked at her horse for a long moment, knowing the pain she was about to cause herself as she mounted. Not thinking twice on the moment, she mounted, quietly holding in the pain that consumed her as she did as such. After a few moments of riding, the pain finally began to subside, and she breathed easily once more, grateful for it. Both The Healer and Ann'wn watched silently, knowing well that their Queen would dismiss any notion of assistance.

The small wooden dwelling that Sle'nel’ had visited once prior was a short distance just north of the Valley's main town center. Thinking that they would travel in the same direction, Sle'nel’ was surprised after they first traveled north, then halted for a moment.

Ann'wn turned to San'lr'in', “Would you open the path for us, Highness?"

Nodding once, The High Queen turned her horse east toward the more wild mountains. Closing her eyes for a moment, she gathered a spell to her. After raising her hand toward the trees and chanting the spell, an opening in the forest appeared before them. She reopened her eyes, then turned to Ann'wn, “You have but a few moments prior to its closure, Force Leader."

They wound their way slowly up into the mountains, traveling upon a well-hidden and narrow trail, allowing the horses their own pace. Sle'nel’ examined the forest, seeing that the trees were similar to those in the Forest of the Ancients. She saw that they were the same red bark, but that these were far taller, yet thinner than those of the Ancients. She breathed in deeply, smelling the earthy aroma of the forest, and noticed that the horses seemed to like traveling upon the soft path, completely covered by the needles and duff from the trees.

"Is all well, Elfin Queen?"

"Why do the others travel apart from us, Force Leader?"

"This is The High Queen's path only, for protection and secrecy, as needed. All others must travel on a different path. This path is well hidden from all. Notice that we have overly few guards with us. Even these guards are of the elite forces, sworn to secrecy of this path. That, and the others left long prior, leaving early to prepare the lodge for The High Queen."

Caitha traveled next to Sle'nel’ as the trail allowed, “This is a most beautiful path."

Sle'nel’ breathed in the heady fragrance of the forest, thinking it a wonderful aroma, both sharp yet inviting, “Sam told me of such a forest as this once. It was on one of Woden's boundaries. She brought me a piece of the tree's bark to smell. I recall this aroma well."

"Now that you say as such, I recall that Meera told me of such a forest, also. It is amazing, is it not? The Realm is a most exciting place, yet my role in The Realm has remained as stable while your purpose has changed beyond belief. Even now, within the past few turns, your role has taken on yet another most serious of shifts."

Sle'nel’ scoffed at the idea, “A Second of Woden upon one moment, only to become the Elfin Queen upon a next moment. A silly notion, really."

"I have ever wondered over your presence in Woden, though, Sle'nel', as I recalled you not in our earlier cycles. And you ever were seen as different than the rest of us."

"Different? In what regard, Caitha? I was surely like any other."

"You looked different than those in Woden, far beyond beautiful, but also different in other respects.” She examined her for a moment, “You stood out, ever; different. Your looks were slightly unusual. Now I know, of course, that they are Elfin, but we knew this not, then. And you were able to learn much more quickly than the others; your intelligence ever shone beyond theirs."

"I felt as if I were as any other.” She shook her head, as in disbelief, “I yet cannot believe that I allowed Hern into my bed for a short while. How stupid was I?"

"We all do as such, upon some moment."

As they neared the lodge, Ann'wn rode next to her High Queen, “Do you require rest prior to our first meeting, Highness?"

San'lr'in’ ignored the question, “Who attends the meetings, Force Leader?"

"Fourteen Force Leaders from various towns. A few queens, such as Erthrn. The High Counselor. An'ther'on. Your Black Guard Force Leader. The High Priestess."

"Is the Mungardies’ Force Leader to attend?"

"We know this not as yet, my Queen."

"Will these be the primary Force Leaders for our battle?"

"It is so, my Queen."

"And they all are to remain at the lodge?"

"Yes, my Queen. Your private wing is being prepared, however, Highness."

"Is the midturn meal to be prepared by our arrival?"

"Yes, my Queen. Mil'der'in is inspecting all the arrangements, personally."

"Let the meeting occur during the meal, Force Leader."

"As you say, my Queen."

They rode to a clearing where all could finally see that the sun's path was at its midturn. Once again, Ann'wn rode up to her, “I know not where the secret path ends, my Queen, but know that it is within this meadow."

The High Queen closed and reopened her eyes slowly, as was her usual, nodded once, then held out an arm. After a moment of bringing the path's powers to her recognition, she lowered her arm, then traveled to the exit of the secret path while the others followed.

As they passed through the path's exit, Sle'nel’ turned back toward it, seeing it close its awareness to any who would happen upon it. She shook her head in disbelief, amazed that she was yet learning of The Realm's ways. The path that they had traveled upon was now nothing more than a deeply wooded and impassable forest.

They rode upon the path that the others used to The High Queen's Lodge, but couldn't yet see any signs of the lodge. They rode for a few short moments, then entered upon a lake's shores.

Ann'wn pointed, for the benefit of Caitha, Meera and Sle'nel', “That is where we head—The High Queen's Lodge."

Sle'nel’ followed the direction of Ann'wn's indication, seeing the great lodge. It sat across the opposite end of the long lake, standing in a small clearing at its edge, in a small cove.

Caitha gasped her disbelief, “It is beautiful beyond comparison."

Meera's eyes were wide, “It is fully amazing. Never prior have I seen such an image as this."

The High Queen moved her horse quietly toward Sle'nel's, “A most beautiful sight, is it not, My Desire?"

Sle'nel’ had been gazing in wonderment at The High Queen's Lodge, but looked at her lover, “How many more such wondrous sights have you kept in secrecy, my Queen?"

San'lr'in’ smiled softly, “I am pleased you find this as such. Come. The inside is even more astonishing. I only wish that it had been built with you in mind."

"This was built for you?"

She began to ride toward the lodge, mostly ignoring the question, “After a fashion, but has been long unused."

As The High Queen rode off toward the lodge, Ann'wn came up to Sle'nel', “It was built for her and a lover, and was one of her most favored sites in The Realm ... for a short moment. It never came to be, however. She has not allowed its usage in overly many cycles. And I think she has tried to remove it from her memory. In truth, long prior, she was considering having it removed."

"The Healer?"

"No. A traitor. One who attempted to assassinate her, just as she became High Queen."

"In truth?"

"It is truth. The incident occurred at this lodge, after their first eve together."

Sle'nel’ rode up to San'lr'in’ so that they could ride the remaining distance together. As they neared the lodge, Sle'nel’ saw that it was built of massive logs, and that its peak was fully three stories in height. She marveled at the large deck on its front side, but saw that an even larger one wrapped around the rear of the dwelling. And she was astounded that the full front of the lodge was nothing more than large windows supported by full tree logs.

As they dismounted, San'lr'in’ held out her hand to Sle'nel', “Elfin Queen, would you allow that I show this to you?"

Sle'nel’ placed her hand into her Queen's, and nodded. San'lr'in’ led them up the massive front deck and into the entry room. Sle'nel's eyes widened as she saw the great room before her. It spanned the full three stories, reaching up to the roof, far overhead.

Then she saw the fireplace, “I have never seen such a dwelling. The fireplace is larger than most dwelling walls, and built of boulders. How was such a thing accomplished?"

The High Queen laughed lightly, “It is one of the pleasures of being High Queen. I need not know how such a thing is done. I only need know that it is here. But I do enjoy the large beams. Most of the dwellings in which I find myself seem overly refined as compared to this."

One of The High Queen's attendants knelt and bowed her head, “M'Lady?"

The High Queen startled, unaware of her presence, “Rise. Tell Me."

"Your rooms are readied, Highness. And your midturn meal awaits your presence."

The High Queen turned to Sle'nel', “Would you have it that we eat our midturn meal, and then you can explore the lodge on your own, or would you care for a brief tour now?"

"M'Lady? Your Force Leaders await your prese—"

The High Queen glared at her attendant, but Sle'nel’ quickly softened the moment, “Many await your presence. I will wait for you so that we may have more moments to make this as special."

The meeting occurred while the midturn meal was served. Knowing that the debate would provide for an unpleasant meal, The High Queen turned away the offered meal, choosing to wait until she could dine with Sle'nel'.

She observed her force leaders as they offered their plans to help defeat the Wizard of the Ravens. Erthrn, Mil'der'in and Ann'wn watched San'lr'in’ carefully, knowing well her expressions. As the debates moved toward the late-after midturn, they saw that their High Queen reclined fully back into her chair, arms crossed before her. They well knew their Queen's mood behind as such. Ann'wn had also remained quiet.

"I take it your silence means that you agree with us, Ann'wn."

Ann'wn took a hardened stance when in the presence of all the force leaders throughout The Realm, “You assume overly, Adra'nil. Speak not for me."

"Oh? Then you disagree with us?"

"You risk your forces easily. Our losses will be overly many. This need not occur."

Erthrn agreed, “Make not the first charge with our horses or warriors. Engage our large weapons, first."

When the turn's meeting was nearing the moment for the eve's meal, San'lr'in’ finally spoke, “You cannot think as separate forces. It will take a combined effort, from all flanks. You must find a way to attack fully from all sides, at the same moment, in as many ways as possible. Revisit your thinking this eve. We will meet again at the midmorn. You have My leave. Queen Erthrn. Force Leader. Remain a moment."

They had been sitting in the padded seats that surrounded the enormous fireplace throughout the after midturn, providing a more informal atmosphere for the meetings. Regardless of the intent or the comfort, The High Queen had been displeased with the meeting.

As the others left, Erthrn bowed her head, “Highness?"

"Are these the best force leaders available?"

Ann'wn shook her head, seeing that her Queen yet looked tired from her wound, “No, Highness. There are a few others that are much better. But they lack the experience, so the towns within The Realm see them not. And there is the force leader of the Mungardies. She is most excellent."

"See that they are here for the next turn's meeting. If I must endure another turn of such small-minded thinking, I will be forced to save the Wizard the effort of battling our force leaders."

Erthrn laughed. San'lr'in’ raised an eyebrow, “You find humor in this, Queen Erthrn?"

Erthrn shook her head, but continued laughing, “No, my Queen. I am merely surprised in your patience throughout this meeting. I thought you would dismiss them far sooner than this."

"They are graced that I had no weapon upon Me. That, and I have little energy about Me to waste upon them.” She turned to Ann'wn, “When are we to deal with this traitor?"

Ann'wn was yet smiling from Erthrn's statement, but became serious in the change of topic, “She is guarded well, my Queen, so we await your command. The longer she lives, the longer she suffers. There is no urgency. Perhaps when you are more rested?"

The High Queen ignored the statement, “Have you learned of her allegiance to this attempt on My life?"

"We have yet not done as such, Highness, without your leave."

"You have My leave, but ensure that she lives, Force Leader."

She nodded, “Yes, my Queen."

San'lr'in’ rose, but felt like she wanted to remain seated, “I will deal with her after the next turn's meeting. In the meanwhile, please ensure that those disgraces to their title as Force Leaders are elsewhere during the eve meal. I have no remaining patience for them. I would like the eve's meal to be as pleasant as possible, given this location."

"Yes, Highness."

San'lr'in’ went to a nearby guard, speaking quietly to her. She nodded at the guard's answer, then began to exit by its back entrance.

"M'Lady?"

She turned to the voice.

An attendant held out a cloak to her, “Please, my Queen. It is chilly outside."

She sighed, “If I must."

San'lr'in’ allowed the cloak to be placed on her, then exited the rear entrance. She followed the path to another lake, toward the opposite side of the dwelling from the lake they entered. She knew the path well, but frowned at the memory of it. She looked about her and saw that the plants and trees of the forest had grown considerably since her last visit to the lodge. She long prior had thought it a most beautiful of sites, but now only saw it as marred and imperfect, ever angry with herself over her prior decision.

Meera saw her hesitate for a moment at a small meadow. She observed from a safe distance as The High Queen knelt and touched the ground. When The High Queen rose, she closed her eyes, then stood perfectly still for a few moments.

You open your mind to me, once again. So this means you have lived through my little trial of you. Well done, High Queen. You are of much worth.

San'lr'in’ hadn't wished to have this Wizard of the Ravens enter into her mind upon this moment, so gave no response.

You are well weakened by my little trial, though. I feel this as truth. I can repair this damage to your heart, High Queen, should you allow.

Again, San'lr'in’ sent no response.

My messengers tell me of your great beauty, High Queen. Perhaps from this moment, I will spare you so that you can be mine. I have great need for such as you.

San'lr'in closed her mind to the Wizard's thoughts, but was intrigued at the Wizard's desire, wondering if she might be able to use it against her in some fashion. She moved into another meditation, restoring some of her powers to her.

"Have you been guarding her since she left the lodge?"

Meera looked at Ann'wn for a moment, then turned back to further watch her Queen, “As you commanded."

"What has she done?"

"She walked down the path to where it became somewhat dense, then examined it for a moment. She then walked to the meadow, knelt down, and placed her hand upon the grasses. When she rose, she did as you now see."

"That is where she battled the traitor."

"Why would she wish to recall that moment? It was just another enemy, or does she do as such for all those she has defeated?"

Ann'wn shook her head and sighed, “No. Only for those she trusted. She hasn't returned to this lodge since that moment. Does she now seek Sle'nel'?"

"She asked the guard for Sle'nel's location."

"Good. Perhaps her memories will now become more pleasant ones."

The High Queen took another look at the location of the long-prior battle with the lover-traitor, closed her eyes, then sighed deeply, trying to rid herself of the heavy memory. She then continued down the path to the other lake where a small wooden dwelling was located at the shore, used to keep the boats safe. She looked up to the top of it, where a covered deck had been rebuilt since her last visit, and saw Sle'nel’ practicing her spells. Without letting Sle'nel’ know of her presence, she looked out to the lake and watched Sle'nel's spell dance across the water—a small swirling whirlwind.

She looked back up to the covered porch and saw that Sle'nel’ was holding her staff out toward the whirlwind.

"How was your meeting?"

The sound of the well-known voice caught The High Queen completely unaware. She turned toward the voice, confused, “How did you surprise Me so?"

Sle'nel’ laughed, “A sorcerer never reveals her secrets."

The High Queen looked back up to the covered porch, “Then who, or what, is up there?"

"An image, only."

San'lr'in’ suddenly smiled, well amused, “I am well pleased, High Sorcerer. You have learned much since My prior observations. You sensed My presence?"

Suddenly, Sle'nel's voice came from another direction, “I followed you."

The High Queen looked toward the new direction of the voice. She raised her eyebrows in surprise, then turned back to the image she had just spoken with, seeing Sle'nel’ yet standing there as well, then checked up to the covered porch, seeing as she expected. Sle'nel’ was fully in three locations at one moment. She turned back to the new voice, her eyes sparkling in delight, “You have mastered the staff, My Desire. I am truly pleased. Now then, who is the real you?"

Sle'nel’ smiled a knowing smile to her lover, “Perhaps you would find that three of me are that much more desirable, my Love."

San'lr'in’ raised an eyebrow, agreeing, “It is not an unwelcome notion, High Sorcerer. But being entertained by one so knowledgeable in the magic craft already provides much allure. When did you learn such sorcery, My Desire?"

Sle'nel’ wrapped her arm through her lover's, “My Mother taught me much about the uses of the staff while I was in El'fs'nd'lle. She taught me to interweave the spells. I knew not that this was possible."

They began walking back to the lodge, “I yet see you in two other places, Elfin Queen. Will they remain there?"

Sle'nel’ laughed, “I forgot about the images.” She waved her staff, and they disappeared.

"You have mastered the sorcery of being invisible?"

Sle'nel’ shook her head, “I have mastered the illusion only. Sorcerers cannot be truly invisible, but we can cast notice elsewhere, as needed, making me seem as invisible, yet present."

"A neat trick."

Sle'nel’ looked up to her High Queen, her eyes twinkling her amusement, “I have a far better trick than this, my Love."

"Oh? And would you care to share as such?"

Sle'nel’ reached up to her lover and kissed her. The High Queen placed her arms around Sle'nel', returning the kiss.

"I have missed you."

San'lr'in’ touched her cheek, softly replying, “And I you, most truly.” They kissed and embraced again, San'lr'in’ relaxing into the moment. Sle'nel’ began to lead her back to the lodge.

"Must we return to this lodge so quickly, My Desire?"

"You need not do this.” She brought the staff up to her and made a quick motion. “But you will miss the surprise I have for you."

Suddenly, she was gone. The High Queen looked around, seeing nothing except the landscape.

"My Queen. Where did the Elfin Queen go? Should I look for her?"

San'lr'in’ laughed lightly, “I think not, Warrior Woman. I know well where she is.” And she walked off to her rooms in the lodge.

The High Queen's wing was well guarded, but she ignored the guards as she entered through the heavy wooden doors. She walked down the long passageway to her main rooms, entering as she arrived. She found Sle'nel’ waiting for her, as expected, and smiled at her lover.

"You continue to surprise Me, My Desire."

Sle'nel’ came up to her, beginning to undo The High Queen's gown, “I wouldn't have it that you become bored."

The High Queen laughed, “You think I could become weary of you, in truth? Hardly this."

Sle'nel’ pulled her close, providing a deeply passionate kiss. San'lr'in’ moaned her pleasure and began to untie Sle'nel's garment. Sle'nel’ took control of the moment, moving San'lr'in’ onto the bed. She moved between her legs, gently forcing San'lr'in’ to surrender to the moment. Resisting slightly for a moment, San'lr'in’ finally gave in to Sle'nel's desires, fully desiring the very knowing advances of her lover.

They laid entwined in each other's arms when their moment of urgency was completed, “This is a beautiful dwelling. Why have we not come prior?"

San'lr'in’ tried to evade the story, “The reasons for such have not been compelling, but this meeting has called together overly many to use the small dwelling."

They were prepared for the eve's meal, then met everyone in the dining hall, another magnificent room of massive wooden logs and large windows that overlooked the sparkling lake.

Sume’ came up to them as they entered. San'lr'in’ noted that she seemed anxious, “She has reached into my thoughts, San'lr'in'. We must do something."

San'lr'in’ placed her hand on Sume's head, “Allow Me to enter your thoughts, High Priestess?"

Sume’ nodded, “Do so."

San'lr'in’ searched into Sume's thoughts, finally finding what she sought. She jerked her head back slightly as she found the Wizard's message, then moved her hand to her heart.

The Healer was instantly at her side, “Pain, High One?"

San'lr'in’ took a deep breath, finally able to do so, “She is stronger than I had first thought."

She sends yet another trial. Why does she seek Me?

* * * *

Next turn, the newer force leaders attended the war council along with a few of the older ones, and with some surprise, so did the Force Leader of the Mungardies. As the prior turn, The High Queen sat deeply back into her seat, listening, but also resting.

"With respect, Young Force Leader, you know nothing about such an enemy."

The new Force Leader sat down, but was angry at having been dismissed so easily by one of the older force leaders. The High Queen looked at the group, speaking for the first moment all the morn, “Please continue, Force Leader. You may be new to this role, but I am most eager to hear your thoughts."

The more experienced Force Leader resisted, “But, my Queen, this one is overly young in her decision-making. She hasn't the experience we do."

The High Queen raised an eyebrow at the Force Leader, “Is this not an open forum, Ge'vin?"

The Force Leader winced slightly at the use of her name, knowing it was a show of displeasure from her High Queen, “Yes, my Queen, but I—"

San'lr'in’ interrupted her, “Good. Then tell us more of your thinking, our new Force Leader."

It hadn't gone unnoticed that The High Queen had used the formal title to the younger Force Leader while using the more-experienced Force Leader's name, only. The young woman rose, “As you say, my Queen, I think we should attack on eight sides. Four quadrants using the catapults, and the other four using flaming arrows, without rest for two full turns, even through the eves. Only after this should we send in our land units to raise the ladders and the battering rams to open the gates. But she will be expecting this form of attack, so during this campaign, we must also begin a more unexpected assault."

"What would be this unexpected assault, Force Leader?"

"Boulders, my Queen."

Ann'wn was intrigued, but cautious, “Boulders, Force Leader?"

The Force Leader turned to Ann'wn, “Boulders, my Force Leader. I have heard there is a slight hill at the rear of the Keep. We will move the boulders to the ledge, holding them there until they are needed, and then allow them to role down the hill with great momentum. It will require many, but they will cause extensive damage."

"And how are we to keep these boulders a secret, Force Leader?"

"Magic."

All turned to Sle'nel', who had spoken the word. She merely shrugged, “It is easily enough accomplished."

"And how are we to keep the Wizard from detecting this magic, Elfin Queen?"

San'lr'in’ smiled at her lover and answered for her, “By disguise, as she did prior with Me. By making it appear not, while making another location appear as such."

"They will be expecting the boulders from another side, my Queen?"

The High Queen nodded, “Exactly this."

Ann'wn nodded, “Perhaps it could be accomplished."

"What are you called by, Force Leader?"

The Force Leader bowed her head, “Nor'onth, my Queen."

The High Queen bowed her head briefly, “We thank you for your words, Force Leader. You are most welcome at our War Councils.” She looked to the Force Leader of the Mungardies, “Mungardies’ Force Leader. What are your thoughts on this battle?"

The Mungardies woman had said nothing during the entire meeting, but listened intently. Upon a few moments, The High Queen had seen her offer an imperceptible squint of the eyes when Ge'vin had been offering her own thoughts. The High Queen knew well that the Mungardies’ Force Leader had as little patience as her own.

The Mungardies woman bowed her head slightly. Her answer was softly spoken but harsh in its delivery, “Until a moment prior, I had thought your Force Leaders as incapable. But I see that you think as I do. Perhaps the next turn will bring us further to where we need be against this Wizard that plagues all of our communities. I will hold my own thoughts until then, High Queen."

"Your thoughts are welcome whenever you wish to provide them, Force Leader."

The High Queen looked to Ann'wn, Erthrn and Fon'elnn', “This is a good beginning, but we must do much more. As Force Leader Nor'onth has said, we must offer the sheer force against the Keep, as well as the unexpected, but endlessly. Get creative, Force Leaders, as nothing that is common will work against this Wizard. Nothing. She long prior defeated a hundred fold more forces than we have."

"But she hasn't the numbers as she did prior, my Queen."

The High Queen raised an eyebrow, then sighed, as she turned back to Ge'vin, “No? Tell Me, Ge'vin, why do you think as such?"

Ge'vin gulped, “There are not this many across all our realm, Highness."

Fon'elnn’ laughed sarcastically, “The Wizard using not those in The Realm, Ge'vin."

"Then who does she use?"

Fon'elnn’ looked to her High Queen, “Would you caring for me to answer, Highness?"

She nodded.

"She stepping through the OuterRealm, Ge'vin. She having this power and ability. Her forces not being as strong as ours, but they outnumbering ours by many."

"How do you know this?"

Ann'wn looked at Ge'vin, exasperated by her, “Have you not been listening, Ge'vin? The High Queen's Black Guard have been scouting the Keep. We have been informed that there are eighty to our one. It is why Nor'onth has suggested that we remain as distant until the numbers have been more evened."

"What about the Ravens?"

San'lr'in’ kept her Force Leaders at the meeting all throughout the turn, and then again the next turn. As had been hoped, the older Force Leaders began to silence themselves as the younger Force Leaders brought forward all their new and more creative plans. Even the Mungardies’ Force Leader provided a few of her thoughts, for which The High Queen had been pleased.

"We have come much further in our plans this turn, but yet have much further to move. Draw out your battle plans this eve, and bring them in the morn. We begin at the morn meal. We must have more backup plans, and well-coordinated ordered efforts. You have My leave. Ann'wn, Erthrn and Fon'elnn'. I have need of you."

Ann'wn bowed her head, “Highness?"

"Have you received the report I have requested from our traitor?"

Erthrn nodded, “Her tale changes, Highness. She has provided four differing tales. She has told us that she did as such for the prior First Master. Then she told us that she did the Wizard's bidding. Upon a third moment, she said that she did it for The Realm on her own accord. Then, early this morn, she informed the guards, after a little persuading on their part, that there is a large group of displeased warriors who seek a new High Queen."

The High Queen raised an eyebrow, “She is this strong? Pity that she has been called to the dark powers. We could use such strength about us. Take Me to her."

They walked well into the forest, finally arriving upon a small meadowed clearing. The High Queen sensed that many of Ann'wn's forces were present, and saw that Krl'lnn’ was tied up to a stripped tree which had been made into a pole. She noted that Krl'lnn’ looked as if death would be a most welcomed friend.

Ann'wn called to her guards, “Bring her down. Bind her arms and legs well."

The guards wasted no care in bringing Krl'lnn’ to the ground, letting her drop heavily. Krl'lnn’ screamed her pain, no longer able to withstand it in silence. But San'lr'in’ saw that Krl'lnn's eyes remained as fiercely resolute in their stance, regardless of the pain she had endured.

"You need waste no moments on feeling sympathy for this one, Highness. She has been raised with hate in her heart."

San'lr'in’ responded to the voice without moving her gaze away from Krl'lnn, “She has had little choice in her stance, Queen Erthrn. She is ignorant of what she does. Her mind has been twisted to this act. She did this not of her free will."

"Perhaps this is so, my Queen, but it matters not. She attempted to take your life. A cycle of torture is overly short for this one."

She looked at Erthrn for a moment, “If you and I take not a softer stance to a wasted life, Erthrn, then who will? Our forces? Her life was ravaged long prior to her own understanding, and this is no fault of hers. She is overly young for this much hate. And she would have made a fine Master had she not been used in such a fashion."

Erthrn met her Queen's eyes, ever longing to belong to her, “Perhaps you speak truth, my friend, and is why you were chosen as High Queen. But it cannot make the moment softer for her."

"A harsher truth, Erthrn. It is as you say, and she has suffered for her act."

The Healer had come up to her Queen, “You cannot do this alone, High One. You have much in front of you to use up on this one."

The High Queen raised an eyebrow, curious, “You wish to deal with this one, Healer? Are you prepared for this?"

"I care not for her, only for your health, High One. Someone must tend to it, as you don't do as such."

"She is readied for you, my Queen."

She walked up to the well-tied Krl'lnn, seeing the desperate look in her eyes. San'lr'in’ could sense the immense pain within her, and felt saddened by it. She placed her hand softly on Krl'lnn's head, then reached deep into her thoughts. She closed her eyes as she sensed into Krl'lnn's past, searching deeply for the real traitors to The Realm. As she did as such, she felt The Healer's hand come to rest lightly upon her own head.

The moment was more difficult than San'lr'in’ had prior experienced, finding Krl'lnn's mind a maze of secrets well hidden by the real traitors. She probed more deeply, discovering a path through Krl'lnn's mind that greatly troubled San'lr'in'.

Don't enter there, my Queen.

She ignored the thought that was sent to her, even in her unawareness of who sent it, moving deeper into Krl'lnn's mind. After many moments, she found that Krl'lnn's mind had been taken over many moons prior, used merely as a vessel to complete the task. She became troubled that she couldn't find the source. She removed herself from the process for a moment.

She turned to Erthrn, “It is as I had thought. Her mind has been well twisted. This has been no fault of hers. But I cannot yet find whose deed she carried. I must enter her mind through My meditations."

"You cannot do as such, High One. You cannot risk this much."

She looked at her Healer and spoke softly, “Perhaps you recall that a High Queen must make sacrifices upon every turn, Healer? This is one of those moments."

Without waiting for an answer, she entered into her meditations, moving quickly to the desired one, then as quickly, she re-entered Krl'lnn's mind, interacting directly with it.

She walked through Krl'lnn's mind as if walking through a forest's path, taking first one turn, then another, as she struggled to find the one responsible for the attempted assassination. But it was as she had first found, the paths leading nowhere, as if in a maze. She moved further into her meditations, and further into, yet removed from Krl'lnn's mind. As she moved slightly apart from the sensing, she finally found the location of the source. Rather than moving directly to uncover it, she moved around it, observing it fully, so as to remain unidentified to the source.

She had guessed that whoever had supplied the directive to Krl'lnn had done so without her knowledge. And she had guessed that the source had supplied traps within Krl'lnn's mind so as to signal detection if discovered. She maneuvered further around the source, trying to identify it without signaling her presence. When she found it, she mentally backed away, knowing that she now had to contain it within Krl'lnn's mind, but apart from it, all without detection.

The Healer felt The High Queen begin to return from her meditations, “Slowly, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. Come to my voice. Slowly."

When The High Queen had returned, she saw that Krl'lnn was now even further in pain. She looked to her Healer, “How long have I been in Krl'lnn's mind?"

"Many moments, High One."

She looked up to the sky, seeing that the moon was now overhead, “I must re-enter into her mind but from another direction. I will need your assistance, Healer."

"You have it, my Queen."

She placed her hand on Krl'lnn's head, removing some of her pain, “Remain strong, Young Master. Your mind will be at peace in a few moments."

She turned to her Healer, “Connect to Me, Healer. There is need of your strength."

When she was certain that she could use The Healer's strength, she returned her sensing into Krl'lnn, now seeking to confine the source of the assassination attempt securely without its awareness of such. She used her powers to build a wall around it, and used her spells to trick the source into thinking that all was as usual. When she was done building the secure trap, she looked within it so as to finally identify the source.

The shock was so surprising that her heart jumped at the sudden awareness, causing great pain. In spite of it, she knew that she needed to remove Krl'lnn's mind from the source's hold, also without the source's awareness. Once again, she used both her powers and spells to do as such, trying to move herself away her heart's pain.

When she was done, she used The Healer's strength to return herself to The Realm, falling upon her knees as she returned.

"My Queen!"

She was having difficulty breathing, but said, “Untie her."

"She is a traitor, Highness. She tried to kill you."

Yet in pain, she stood, looking with narrowed eyes, “I gave a command, Force Leader."

"My Queen, we must tend to your heart."

"Not at this moment, Healer."

She turned to Krl'lnn, who was yet strongly bound and gagged, “Remove her bindings.” She turned to her Healer, “Help Me. She is with great pain, and is not responsible for this assassination attempt. Help Me save her, Healer."

The Healer nodded, moving to Krl'lnn. She worked quickly to remove some of her greatest pains, then began to bandage her more injured limbs and areas.

The High Queen bent down to Krl'lnn, who was now lying upon the ground, “Can you hear Me, Krl'lnn?"

Krl'lnn was no longer controlled by the source, but was in enormous pain. She spoke with great effort, “Yes, Highness."

She touched Krl'lnn's face gently, “Rest. We will speak later.” She touched Krl'lnn's forehead, sending her into a deep sleep, “She will rest comfortably now, Healer. Do as you can. Have them move her to a room within the lodge."

The Healer nodded as The High Queen turned to Erthrn and Ann'wn. She spoke softly, “Bring the High Wizard Sorcerer to Me, with all haste. Tell her I have great need of her to help Me with My powers."

"Yes, my Queen."

Erthrn was surprised, “The High Wizard Sorcerer, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'?"

She nodded, “It is so."

"But I have heard tales that she allowed you within her thoughts."

"All is not what it seems, Erthrn."

Mil'der'in had come earlier, hearing that The High Queen was questioning Krl'lnn, “This will be a most unwelcomed report throughout The Realm, Highness."

She turned to Ann'wn, “Tell no one of this. Inform the guards that they remain here until the High Wizard Sorcerer's arrival. This must remain quiet until we can complete this task."

"Yes, my Queen. As you say. I will dispatch a messenger and some guards now, Highness. She will be arrived within a few turns."

"We will deal with her prior to our leaving for the Wizard. I will provide a general statement saying of My need of the High Wizard Sorcerer, so that all can hear. She must not become aware of our intent."

As Krl'lnn was being carefully moved to the lodge, Ann'wn looked at her Queen, “She is not guilty, Highness? We have done as such to her, and she is innocent?"

The High Queen knew the difficulty in such decisions. She placed her hand upon Ann'wn's shoulder, “We cannot always know truth, Ann'wn. She is alive, and will be well treated from this moment. You moved forward from the knowledge we knew. She threw the knife, and all saw this as truth. You cannot blame yourself. It was meant for us to think as such."

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