Chapter XIII
Sume's Challenge

The meeting on the third turn was long and intense. Everyone tried to create a battle plan that would please The High Queen, but she had been displeased in the efforts. Mostly, though, she had been displeased that she hadn't come up with her own plan to rid The Realm of this great wizard.

During one moment of rest, The High Queen entered into her second meditation to help remove herself from The Realm. Once again, the Wizard of the Ravens entered easily.

I have been waiting for you. I find that I like being in your thoughts, High Queen.

San'lr'in’ sensed the Wizard's truth. The Wizard was enjoying the moment.

I admire strength, and you are strong. You have done well through my trials. I am well pleased. From this moment, you will only experience my pleasure, as I now seek you to me. Think on this, High Queen. I desire you to stand with me.

While surprised at the statement, San'lr'in’ needed to learn more about her. But something in the statement made her wonder, Perhaps her desire could be used...

And you are strong even in your silence. All others would have long prior given in to me. You resist, yet you are curious. You learn by listening.

San'lr'in’ thought to herself that the Wizard liked to overly control the moments.

I will find a way to bring you to me, High Queen. And while you think of me as evil, rethink this, my curious one, as I have many gifts I can offer one such as you.

San'lr'in’ removed herself from the Wizard's thoughts, and stood quietly thinking on what she had learned of the Wizard of the Ravens, once again wondering in what fashion could she use the Wizard's desire of her, against her. She recalled Roen's vision: The Wizard of the Ravens is not what you will be led to believe, Highness. She is more, yet less, in all things. She thought it as an unsettling vision, wondering if the Wizard was ‘more evil, or less so? Could this be truth?

The meeting began again, while she kept turning the Wizard's words over and over in her mind. Suddenly, she raised an eyebrow, thought for a moment, then stood, “Yes. We have it. I have finally placed it together. This is what we will do."

She detailed the plan at great length, omitting her part in it, then said, “Force Leader. Bring the sorcerers to Me, and quickly so, and ensure that the High Wizard Sorcerer comes. I need them here within three turns. In the meanwhile, gather all your forces and weapons together. Prepare well. We leave in five turns."

After The High Queen finally adjourned the War Council, she visited with Krl'lnn. She had posted Krl'lnn to her own Healer's care, so as to ensure a quick and full recovery.

As she entered, Krl'lnn threw herself to the ground upon her knees, in spite of great many wounds, “High Queen. I beg your forgiveness. Never would I attempt as such. I lay my life before you. A true Master would never do as such. Please, my Queen. Please punish me for such a deed as this."

San'lr'in’ bent down to Krl'lnn's level, “Apprentice Master. Look at Me."

Krl'lnn shook her head, “I am overly ashamed, Highness."

"I command it as so, Krl'lnn. Look at your High Queen."

Krl'lnn did as such, truly ashamed for having tried to kill The High Queen, “My Queen, I—"

"Listen well to Me, Krl'lnn. You are not to blame for this attempt on My life. There is another much more powerful than you, and she used you well."

"Let me know of who this is, M'Lady, and I will dispatch her."

San'lr'in’ laughed lightly, somewhat amused at Krl'lnn's stance, “I am quite able to tend to this affair, Young Master."

Krl'lnn blushed, “Oh, Highness. I meant not that you are unable to—"

San'lr'in’ rose and made Krl'lnn do the same, “I know your meaning, Young Master. Worry not over this. Come. Place yourself back in your bed or you will have to protect Me from My own Healer, as she will be most angry at Me for allowing you out of your bed."

Krl'lnn climbed quickly back into her bed, even given the painful wounds that had been inflicted upon her, “I will not tell her of such, my Queen. But my Queen, I am most truly sorry for my actions. As a Master, I should have been able to resist as such. I owe you beyond my life, itself."

The Healer entered just as Krl'lnn had returned to her bed, “Ah, High One. Here you are. I have been looking for you. I must check on your heart."

"Your heart, M'Lady? I threw the knife into your heart?"

San'lr'in’ smiled softly, “It would seem that you have a most excellent aim, Young Master, and from a long distance, as well. I am pleased that your services to The Realm will be most excellent."

Krl'lnn shook her head, “Please say this be not so, my Queen. I wish to serve only you. The Realm has forfeited my services, but my services are solely in your hands, Highness. Until my dying day. Of this I vow to you, from this moment on. I am nothing but a weak and pitiful excuse for a Master."

The Healer laughed, “Halt, Krl'lnn. The High Queen hears as such upon almost every turn. Tell her something fresh and entertaining. She knows full well of your allegiance to her. She questioned your part in this assassination attempt long prior to any other."

San'lr'in’ smiled at her Healer and placed her hand upon her arm. They exchanged knowing glances, then both looked at Krl'lnn, “You seem to be recovering quickly, Krl'lnn. What now gives you the most pain?"

Krl'lnn glanced down to her tightly bound left elbow, “The break in the elbow is quite painful as yet, but my fingers move more easily upon every turn."

The Healer unbound the elbow and examined it, “It heals slowly, but well. Use it not, Krl'lnn until the bone is finished with its healing. You will regain full use of this, and you are lucky in this regard.” She turned to San'lr'in', “We must tend to your health, High One."

San'lr'in’ rose, “I am pleased that you are returned to The Realm, Young Master. We have great need of your services. I look forward to you teaching new ones to become Masters. For the moment, though, you need only rest so as to return your strength to you. Do you have any requests that I might make as so, Young One?"

"I have one, M'Lady."

"Tell Me."

"I wish to fight with you against this Wizard."

San'lr'in’ placed her hand softly on Krl'lnn's head, “This is not your battle, Young Apprentice-Master. There will be many more battles to come, and you will fight these for The Realm and your High Queen. I must take My leave now."

"But, my Quee—"

She had turned to leave, but turned back, “Consider it as a command, Young Master."

Krl'lnn blushed again and bowed her head, “Yes, my Queen."

She turned to The Healer, “Let us depart so that you may inflict your tortures upon Me, Healer."

The Healer walked with her Queen, seeing that she was being led to a forest's path that led to a yet smaller lake. Their walk had been in silence, and as they reached the lake's shores, The High Queen looked out to the mountains across the lake.

She sighed deeply, “A beautiful setting."

"It is astonishing, in truth.” She knew to allow the moments her Queen needed to say her thoughts.

"Healer. There is little reason for you to continue with My healing."

"Your heart is not yet fully recovered, High One."

"There is little point to its healing, Healer. It is in a weakened moment, yet I must fight against a most powerful wizard. Even with a well heart, My chances will not be good. I have felt her strength."

"She could be using a spell to make her strength look as such, Highness."

"Healer ... you know well My meaning in this."

"You have thought as such, prior, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. And it came not to be as so."

Seldom did The Healer use The High Queen's name, but when she did, The High Queen knew well its meaning, “You alone know of My lack of strength at this moment. In all The Realm, only you know fully of what I now must face. Shr'dler'in, you know this to be so."

The Healer felt saddened in the moment, “You must face this differently, San'lr'in'. You cannot enter this moment expecting to die."

"In truth, Healer, I expect to win. But it will, in most likely truth, take My life to do as such, and this you well know. And I tell you this for good reasons. First, Healer, I have great need that you know how much you have meant to Me. While I have ever been saddened that our moments as lovers became overly difficult, I never halted in My love for you."

The Healer gulped, “I know hardly what to say, Highness. But perhaps—"

"Just listen, Healer. Second, you among all others know My heart, and you among all others have the most interesting way of winning your arguments. If I must leave this Realm, guide the next High Queen well, Healer. Mil'der'in is an excellent High Counselor, but she, as Queen of the Valley, will need your strength and great intelligence."

"My Queen, you must know that it will be eons prior to another High Queen such as you."

She ignored the statement, “Third, Healer, you must ensure that The High Queen is of The High Queen's line. This must be so or all will be lost. Mil'der'in will be with you on this, as will Erthrn and all the Deep Mystics. This will not be an easy task, but of all others, Sume'n'tinel'ti'non will lead this argument, as must be. Then last, Healer, take good care of My great love. I command you to her, when this is over."

"And Ann'wn? You think also that she will die in this battle?"

The High Queen finally turned her gaze away from the mountains, to The Healer, “Of all our battles prior, Healer, none were such as this, combined. Very few of us will return from this battle. But the important moment is that this Wizard lose, and I will ensure of this."

"But you have the best forces in all The Rea—"

"...that have been ravaged and weakened by overly many fights against the Dungaras and the Mungardies. We have had no moments to prepare as needed for this battle."

As The High Queen embraced her, The Healer cried softly on her Queen's shoulders for a moment, then pulled back, “I cannot accept this as so, High One. I know you well, and I know that should you desire, you will survive this battle. You must see this as so."

San'lr'in’ took hold of her Healer's hands, “I will try, Healer. I most certainly have no desire to die, as yet. But I must prepare for this possibility. And Healer, should this occur, you alone know the location of My last desires. I have placed them in script. At least, Healer, give Me the assurance that I need not worry over these issues, as well."

"Never, my Queen. Just worry over that I wish for your return. Only this."

"I will give every effort, Healer, but My first duty is to rid The Realm of this Wizard.” But even as she said it, Roen's words kept coming back to her: The Wizard of the Ravens is not what you will be led to believe, Highness. She is more, yet less, in all things.

San'lr'in’ entered into her deepest of meditations for the next two turns, restoring her powers to her and healing herself to the fullest moment possible.

When the High Wizard Sorcerer and all the others finally arrived, Ann'wn came to her, “My Queen."

"Tell Me."

The High Wizard Sorcerer has arrived, along with many of the other sorcerers."

"We will have to deal with the sorcerers at another moment. But we will have to deal with the High Wizard Sorcerer now, and in complete silence. The Realm must remain unaware of what we must now do."

Ann'wn had the High Wizard Sorcerer wait in a clearing, informing her that The High Queen wished to train at that location. As they arrived, San'lr'in’ blocked her mind from all sensing, so that the High Wizard Sorcerer would remain unaware.

The High Wizard Sorcerer bowed her head, “High Queen. I am glad to see that you have recovered fully from this attempt on your life. Has the assassin been found?"

She smiled, also bowing her head, “High Wizard Sorcerer. I am well pleased of your presence. Thank you for arriving as quickly as this. The Realm is now in great danger, and I need your help to prepare fully to this task.” She watched her closely as she said, “The traitor is being tended to."

"As should be. And as ever, I am at your service, Highness."

As had been planned, Sume’ and Sle'nel’ also attended, along with Erthrn. Sle'nel’ spoke, “High Wizard Sorcerer. It is good to see you once again."

The High Wizard Sorcerer bowed her head, “High Sorcerer. And you, as well. And now you are the Elfin Queen. My congratulations. And it is good to see you also, Sume'n'tinel'ti'non. I never prior believed that you would come willingly into The Realm. You have for long prior resisted my sorcery."

Sume’ had long prior detested the High Wizard Sorcerer, thinking her as useless and politically inept. She bowed her head and provided the briefest of responses, “Sorcerer."

The Sorcerer turned to San'lr'in', “They are to train with you, High Queen?"

She waived her hand slightly, as if dismissing the notion, “In a moment, perhaps. But first, High Wizard Sorcerer, I have been puzzled over the Masters."

"The Masters, High Queen?"

She nodded, “The First Master. The one who betrayed The Realm."

The High Wizard Sorcerer looked puzzled, “Is there a problem, Highness?"

"No. Not as such. I merely require some knowledge in this regard, as she became, shall I say, rather indisposed overly soon."

The High Wizard was concerned, but knew The High Queen well enough to know this as a usual pattern, “What is your need in this regard, Highness?"

San'lr'in’ moved closer to the High Wizard Sorcerer, “When was the last moment you were with her, Shandor'nel?"

The use of her name placed her on instant high alert, “You trust me not, Highness.” She looked about her, finally becoming aware of all the guards within the forest.

San'lr'in’ waived her hand again as if in dismissal, “Patience, Shandor'nel. You know Me well enough to sense that I am merely concerned over an issue. No more than this. Tell Me, when was the last moment you spoke with the First High Master?"

"I knew her not well, my Queen. Only in passing."

"You knew of her being a traitor, High Wizard Sorcerer?"

She bowed her head once, “Yes. This I learned most recently. A sad thing, this."

The High Queen walked over to Erthrn, retrieving an item from her. She walked back to the High Wizard Sorcerer, “Do you recognize this, Shandor'nel?"

"It is a knife, Highness."

"Is it your knife?"

"No, my Queen. I have no knife."

"Do you recognize its owner?"

She shook her head, “This I know not."

"It was the same knife used on Me, High Wizard Sorcerer."

She relaxed for a moment, “Ah. You wish me to discern who this knife might belong to, Highness? But I thought that you had captured your attempted assassin. Is this not truth?"

She shrugged, “In truth, we captured the one who threw this knife. A good aim, that one."

Shandor'nel laughed lightly, “You have always had a twisted sense of humor, High Queen."

"Oh? But I digress. Tell Me, Shandor'nel. Have you ever prior met Krl'lnn, the Young Master?"

"Who, Highness? I know not this name."

She turned to Erthrn, “Do you not find this as a puzzlement, Queen Erthrn?"

"I do, my Queen, as when I questioned her, she informed me that the First Master had taken her to meet our High Wizard Sorcerer."

Shandor'nel thought better of it, “Ah. Now I know to who you refer. The Young Master that the First High Master brought to me for training. She took ill and had to leave even prior to us meeting. A most unfortunate occurrence for her."

"This knife is of your sensing. It has traces of you that remain upon it."

Shandor'nel jerked backed, surprised, “This is an impossibility. I never use any weapons, and this you well know."

The High Queen examined into Shandor'nel's mind closely, wondering, “Have you prior met this Wizard of the Ravens, Sorcerer?"

"Met her, High Queen? I would hope not. She could take my sorcery from me easily, from the tales I have heard of her."

San'lr'in’ walked slowly around the High Wizard Sorcerer, displeased. It was easily apparent to her that the High Wizard Sorcerer was indeed telling her truths. She looked over to Erthrn, who merely shrugged in response. The High Queen turned back to Shandor'nel, beginning to wonder how far the Wizard of the Ravens had reached.

With a quick movement, she touched the base of Shandor'nel's neck, suddenly placing Shandor'nel into a deep sleep. She carefully lowered her to the ground, then knelt beside her.

All came near her as she knelt beside the High Wizard Sorcerer, “My Queen?"

She looked up to Ann'wn briefly, hearing the anxious tone in her voice, “I fear that the Wizard of the Ravens has found an entrance into this one's mind, Force Leader, as I sense that Shandor'nel has spoken truly. I must find whatever the Wizard has instilled into her mind."

"I can help, High One."

She nodded to her Healer.

"And me as well."

She looked at her sister, “Thank you."

She placed her hand tentatively on Shandor'nel's head, having briefly felt another's presence when she had placed a deep sleep onto her.

The Healer watched her High Queen carefully, seeing The High Queen close her eyes as she concentrated on the High Wizard Sorcerer. In a few moments only, she saw The High Queen take in a deep breath, then shake her head free of whatever she had sensed.

She looked at her Healer, “She most certainly placed a spell upon Krl'lnn'."

"So she is the traitor, my Queen?"

She looked back down at her High Wizard Sorcerer, feeling the weight of The Realm's burdens upon her. She sighed, taking a few moments to bring her thoughts together, “No, Force Leader. She is not knowingly a traitor. Even now, she knows not that she placed such a spell into Krl'lnn'."

Sle'nel’ placed her hand softly on her lover's shoulder, “The Wizard did as such?"

The High Queen merely nodded.

"Can you remove this spell upon her, San'lr'in'?"

She looked up to the voice, “No, High Priestess. The spell is such that if I were to touch it, Shandor'nel would die. I cannot remove the spell without killing her."

"Yet the spell must be removed, as there might be more spells hidden within."

Ann'wn looked in horror upon Sume', having heard her response to The High Queen, “If you remove the spell, you kill her? But if you not do so, she might be more of a traitor to The Realm?"

The High Queen sighed, then rose, “Correct, Force Leader. That is our dilemma."

"You cannot do as you did to Krl'lnn', Highness?"

"Block her spell, Force Leader?"

She thought it for a moment, wondering, then shook her head, “No. This cannot be done. I was only able to do as such to Krl'lnn', as it was the High Wizard Sorcerer's spell upon her. This spell within our Sorcerer has been placed by the Wizard of the Ravens."

"Then what are your options, San'lr'in? Surely you cannot allow her to die. Even in my disgust of her uselessness, The Realm cannot be without a High Wizard Sorcerer. Especially at this moment."

San'lr'in’ weighed the possibilities silently, then knelt back down next to The High Wizard Sorcerer, “I know not.” While she did indeed know the possibilities, she refrained from speaking of them, hoping she could quickly determine another possibility.

The High Queen woke Shandor'nel, then helped her to rise. She looked confused, “What happened, my Queen?"

San'lr'in’ told her of the Wizard of the Ravens, and the spell she had placed onto her, “But this cannot be, Highness. I most surely would have known of such."

"I am sorry, but I speak truth, High Wizard Sorcerer."

"And you cannot remove it, Highness?"

"Not without killing you, Shandor'nel."

"You cannot block it?"

"I could barely get near enough to sense it. It is as watchful as this."

"But how did she place such a spell within me? I have never even met her. I have felt nothing unusual in this regard."

The High Queen merely looked upon her, saddened in what she knew as truth, and deeply saddened in knowing what she must do.

"Have me watched turn-in and turn-out, Highness. I would like to battle against this one. And perhaps if we are able to defeat her, I might win back my life."

San'lr'in’ knew it as not so, knowing that the Wizard had placed a final spell that would most certainly kill Shandor'nel soon, but nodded, “Perhaps it can be as you say, High Wizard Sorcerer.” Then, without warning and in a fluid movement so quick that no one recognized its occurrence, The High Queen grabbed Ann'wn's sword and moved quickly, beheading the High Wizard Sorcerer.

Kneeling down to the sorcerer's body, she held out her hand, “Force Leader. Your knife."

Ann'wn was yet in shock from the occurrence, and barely had the moments to even understand that The High Queen had removed her sword from her. Absentmindedly, she unsheathed her knife and placed it in her Queen's hand.

The High Queen took the knife and moved its tip close to the High Wizard Sorcerer's heart, “I am truly sorry, Shandor'nel. But The Realm has great need of your spells now. I am sorry I could save you not, but we could not risk losing your powers to this Wizard."

Using Ann'wn's knife, she removed the High Wizard Sorcerer's heart, then stood. Holding the heart in one hand, she softly chanted a spell and brought a glowing white ball of light to the other. Using her great powers, she removed the High Wizard Sorcerer's spells and sorcery and placed them into the waiting ball of light. When done, The High Queen closed her eyes once more, then softly chanted one more spell.

Sle'nel’ became startled, suddenly sensing a deep quiet about her, then saw that all the guards and had been fully frozen in the moment.

"What have you don—"

The High Queen interrupted Sume's question, while rinsing her hands of the blood in the lake, “Quickly. We have much to do. High Priestess, come and kneel upon your knees."

"Kneel? Before you? Why are yo—"

"Quickly, High Priestess. Trust Me.” She turned to Sle'nel', “How far will your sorcery transport a body?"

"Where would you like it?"

"Deep within the Ancients?"

Sle'nel’ thought on it, then nodded, “I think this can be accomplished.” She studied her staff for a moment, cited the needed spell as she waved the staff slightly. Within an instant, the High Wizard Sorcerer's body disappeared.

The High Queen nodded, “Good.” She looked at The Healer and Ann'wn, “Tell no one of what now occurs. Force Leader, have the Singing Bowl and the Crystal Ball brought to Me, and quickly so."

She then looked down at Sume', who was now on her knees before her. She placed her hand lightly upon her sister's head, “High Priestess. The Realm has great need of you upon this moment."

"You know I hate to be kept waiting, San'lr'in'. What is it you want from me?"

The High Queen laughed lightly to herself, and smiled softly at her sister, “Sle'nel’ is destined to become the High Wizard Sorcerer upon some future moment, but not now. Not this moment. And yet The Realm is about to battle against the greatest of all wizards, but cannot do so without the commanding powers of a High Wizard Sorcerer."

"Get to the point, San'lr'in'."

"Be The Realm's High Wizard Sorcerer, High Priestess."

Her response was instantaneous, “Me? I have no such powers. Are you crazed?"

"Do this for The Realm, High Priestess, and you will have these powers."

Sume’ began to rise, “How ridiculous is this, San'lr'in'? I am not such as this. I have no such ability. Sle'nel’ is the much better choice."

San'lr'in’ held her gently down, “Hear Me, High Priestess. Sle'nel’ is indeed a Sorcerer of much strength and ability, but is no Wizard. You are High Priestess, and you have this possibility."

She crouched down to her sister and brought her hand to her sister's cheek, “I have great need of your abilities, Sume'n'tinel'ti'non. Be The Realm's High Wizard Sorcerer. Be My Council. Take these powers. These are surely your due."

"You ask much of me, San'lr'in'. I am not even certain I care much for your realm. And now you would have me battle against this Wizard of the Ravens on an even stance with her. And how am I to know of these spells and sorcery?"

"You will know. I am giving you these spells through her heart. They will be as if you have always known of them."

Sume’ turned to Sle'nel', “These should be yours, Elf. Tell her of such."

Sle'nel’ shook her head, “She is correct, Sume'. These should be your powers. Not mine. You are the one who is well prepared for such. I have barely come to know my staff. And I seem to have other duties at these moments."

Sume’ turned back to her sister, “I will make you pay for this, San'lr'in'. This will cost you. I didn't even want to like you."

San'lr'in’ smiled, “Do you not recall that you commanded that I give you My powers?"

"So? Did you take me as serious?"

The High Queen's eyes twinkled, “Join Me, Sume'n'tinel'ti'non. Come willingly to The Realm, and join Me. I and The Realm have great need of you."

Sume’ rolled her eyes and sighed, “Go ahead. Do this thing. But I certainly hope that you know what you now do."

The High Queen stood, brought the ball of light to her, then softly chanted a spell for The Realm. She removed her great red stone from its pouch and held it out in her left hand. Passing her right hand over it lightly, she then waved the ball of light toward it. As the two great powers touched, great sparks emitted from both. Ignoring the continuing sparks, she motioned the ball of light toward Sume's heart, then pushed it gently yet firmly into her.

"Hold true, High Wizard Sorcerer. Make this pain to disappear from you as it enters."

Clutching her hand to her heart, Sume’ groaned loudly from the pain as the sorcery entered into her heart. She struggled against the pain, but was fully frozen in the moment. Then suddenly, she knew what to do, moving the pain away from her with her new sorcery.

"Move into your meditations, High Wizard Sorcerer. Move away from the moment."

Sume’ struggled again, never having had the ability to move beyond her second meditation, then suddenly moved herself into her fourth meditation. She removed herself away from the moment, finding herself watching the moment, instead of feeling it. Then returned as quickly to The Realm.

"Take these powers as yours, High Wizard Sorcerer. Chant the spell with Me."

Sume’ listened to The High Queen for a moment as the spell was chanted, then learned that she knew the spell well. As she chanted it with The High Queen, San'lr'in’ halted her own chanting, allowing Sume’ to complete it.

Sume’ brought all the former High Wizard Sorcerer's powers into her own, sensed them for a moment, then flinched at their enormous strength. After all her cycles, she was surprised that the very sister she had so hated had given her the true powers of The Realm.

San'lr'in’ held out the High Wizard Sorcerer's staff, “Take it, and do as you must."

Sume’ studied her, slightly unsure of the moment, then saw that The High Queen had no hesitation in her. She rose, then brought the staff to her. She held out her arms to the sky, knowing what she must do.

"Watchers of The Realm. Brand this great sorcery to me. Make these powers flow through me as if they were my very blood."

Without warning, a great bolt of lightning flew from the empty skies above, directly into Sume's heart. The jolt of the lightning bolt was overwhelming, but Sume’ held true, even as the lightning branded her as the High Wizard Sorcerer. Even as her flesh burned, she held firm, as her sister had commanded of her.

When it was done, she suddenly felt the weight of The Realm upon her, surprised at its intensity and burden. She looked to her sister, “What have you done to me?"

San'lr'in’ placed her hand upon Sume's cheek, “I am sorry for this, High Wizard Sorcerer, but I thank you most truly. You honor Me and The Realm greatly with your gift."

Sume’ felt her chest, feeling the brand upon it.

San'lr'in’ moved the top of the gown away from Sume's chest, “Behold. The Watchers of The Realm have granted the mark of the true High Wizard Sorcerer to you. We are all honored upon this turn. It has been since Sle'nel's Mother that we have had a High Wizard Sorcerer accepted by The Realm in such a fashion."

Sume’ looked at it as best she could, but mostly feeling the scorching pain of it. Sle'nel’ touched it lightly, “It is a lightning bolt."

"Not just this, Queen of the Elves. It is the red fire-bolt of the skies. It is the mark of the true High Wizard Sorcerer."

"Did Shandor'nel not have this?"

"No. She was never able to command the skies’ powers, such as you have just called to you."

Sume’ suddenly looked astonished, “I can feel her, San'lr'in'. The Wizard of the Ravens. She tries to now find the High Wizard Sorcerer."

She placed her hand on her sister's shoulder, “Guard well against this one, High Wizard Sorcerer.” She waved her hand and released the guards from their frozen state, then turned to Ann'wn, “Have My requests arrived?"

Ann'wn bowed her head and brought the items to her, “Yes, Highness."

The High Queen took them, then turned back to Sume', handing them to her, “Long prior, these were the possessions of the High Wizard Sorcerers, but they have been long gone from The Realm. You will be the first to use these in many eons. It is told that The First High Queen hid these from The Realm, and from our Grandmother. These are now yours."

Sume’ gazed upon them in awe, “The Crystal Ball. I have heard great legends on this."

* * * *

May entered into The Highest's bedroom unannounced, “Highest. You must rise. Karan and Keddi await you."

U'Aine looked shocked, and Sam laughed, “May believes not in privacy."

U'Aine watched May enter the room, whispering to Sam, “Does she not know that you and I ... well ... that we..."

Sam laughed again, “May but listens at the door. When she believes that the morn activities are over, she enters. With great noise."

May came over to the bed, “Highest. You must rise. Many await you. All are anxious that you are finally to go about your rounds, once again."

"Good morn, May."

May nodded to Sam, “Good morn, Highest. And good morn to you also, U'Aine. Are you yet ready to rise?"

U'Aine blushed, “Not with you present, May. I have no clothes on."

May waved her hand as Sam rose, “I am not shy, so you need have no concern."

Sam was yet laughing, “It will not matter if you are shy, U'Aine. All of Woden is but small, and nothing remains private for overly long."

U'Aine watched as Sam rose from their bed, enjoying her naked beauty. She was yet amazed that Sam had desired her, and felt that she had finally found her home.

Sam felt U'Aine's eyes upon her and turned back toward her, “What do you see, Master?"

U'Aine's eyes moved away to Sam's breasts, “Woden's most wondrous sights."

At the morn meal, Keddi and Karan told Sam of all the latest events in Woden, “Tadan is scheduled to arrive soon, Highest."

Keddi nodded, “He sends word that he has grown into a man, now."

Sam laughed, “He thought as much as I left."

Karan continued, “And your advisors are quite anxious to meet with you, again. We all are, Highest. We have missed you most terribly."

Keddi nodded, “And festival occurs at the new moon, Highest."

Sam groaned, “As soon as this?"

U'Aine looked at Sam, but said nothing. She could tell that Sam wasn't pleased at the mention of this festival.

"But first, Highest, we must tend to your rounds. Hengist and Woden are most anxious to have you begin your rounds with them again. Much has changed since your absence, and they are excited to show you the improvements to your lands."

"Anything needing my attention?"

Karan nodded, “One item, Highest, although it is curious within itself. Great numbers of large black birds have begun to enter our lands, and we cannot seem to get rid of them."

"Large black birds?"

Sam looked at U'Aine, seeing her displeased, “What is it, Master?"

U'Aine rose, “Please, Second of Woden, show me these birds."

May came over, “There is no need, U'Aine. Just look out the patio. They are all about now, and will not be frightened away."

Keddi nodded, “We have begun to shoot them, as they are mean. They seem to hunt the small animals, and they have begun to taunt the small children, but we know of no bird that does as such. Even Rundle doesn't frighten them."

U'Aine went to the patio, seeing the scores of birds. Sam saw U'Aine's eyes narrow, “You are concerned."

U'Aine nodded slowly, keeping her eyes on the birds. She turned to Keddi, “Do you have your bow with you, Second of Defense?"

"Would you like me to capture one of these birds, Master?"

She shook her head, once again staring at the birds, “Not capture, Second. Kill one."

Keddi unsheathed an arrow and quickly shot it into one of the ravens. As the arrow met its prey, the other ravens flew in and carried the raven away.

"Again."

Keddi unsheathed another arrow, killing yet another bird, with the same occurrence. U'Aine's eyes narrowed, “They know. They are aware of my presence.” She could not bring the recollection of these birds to her mind.

Sam overheard U'Aine's whispers, “What do they know, Master?"

"They know that I can sense into their minds, Highest. I cannot call their purpose to mind, but I can sense their evil. Please excuse me but a moment, Highest."

Sam had become used to her sister entering into her meditations, so watched quietly as U'Aine struggled to learn what she could about the birds.

After many moments, U'Aine removed herself from her meditations, then turned to Sam. She looked troubled, “Highest. I must leave. The High Queen is placing herself into great danger. The Realm has great need of me at this moment.” She looked to Keddi, “I must leave at once, Second. Please have my horse prepared."

May began to pack some food for her, “But you have just arrived, Master."

U'Aine ignored those about her, focusing only on Sam, “I am truly sorry, Sam, but I must depart. The High Queen is preparing to fight against a long-prior enemy of The Realm's. These birds are the eyes of the Wizard of the Ravens."

"The Wizard of the Ravens? Who be this Wizard?"

Keddi and Karan's eyes widened as Karan asked, “The Wizard of the Ravens? What is a Wizard?"

"I go with you."

"This is most dangerous, Highest. The High Queen expects not to live through this battle."

"How do you know of this?” Keddi knew that Sam could reach into others’ minds, but had no notion of U'Aine's ability to contact The Realm through her meditations.

"I have contacted another.” She turned to Karan, “A Wizard is one of The Realm's, but one with most strong sorcery."

"And Jandra? What of Jandra?” May began to worry.

"She also leaves to fight against this Wizard.” U'Aine turned back to Sam, “And Sume’ has become the High Wizard Sorcerer, by The High Queen's hand. They all prepare to fight against the Wizard of the Ravens, including the Mungardies."

"Even the Mungardies?"

"What are the Mungardies?"

"What is a High Wizard Sorcerer?"

Sam ignored May and Keddi's questions, “Why did she not inform me?"

"The High Queen?"

Sam nodded.

"The Wizard of the Ravens is strong, Highest. Overly strong. There is no understanding of her deep abilities. Her powers are from another era, long prior to our own. I can only guess that she wishes not to risk you on this."

"Sle'nel’ also fights?"

"And Sume'. And the Mungardies. And all The Realm. Even the Elves’ flying horses are helping to rid The Realm of these Ravens."

"I also go."

"You cannot risk yourself, Highest."

"The High Queen is risking herself. And if she is in danger, Woden is but in danger."

"I also go, Highest. And we have thirty others that are well prepared to battle against The Realm's enemies. And perhaps ten or so from Hengist."

Sam looked at U'Aine, “Woden desires to enter The Realm, Master. We go."

U'Aine took Sam's hand into her own, then looked into her eyes, “I can travel more quickly without these numbers. I must travel alone, Highest."

Sam squeezed U'Aine's hand, making her shiver at the feeling, “You desire to be with me, Master?"

"You know this as truth, Highest."

"In Woden? With me?"

She nodded, “In Woden."

"Then you must learn Woden's ways, Master. And it will begin with this journey, as if one of Woden goes into battle, they do not do so alone."

"Is this part of the companionship you have spoken of, Highest?"

Sam smiled at U'Aine, her eyes sparkling their icy blueness, “Most definitely this, Master."

U'Aine sighed softly, giving in to her new lover, “As you say, Highest. But we must quickly leave, and we must travel without rest. It will not be an easy journey."

Sam turned to Keddi, “Second. Prepare our strongest, with full weapons. We leave in a short moment. And have the sorcerer women prepare. They depart with us."

* * * *

On the eve prior to leaving, San'lr'in’ called Sele’ and Sume’ to her.

"High Queen?"

She looked down at the kneeling figure, “Rise, Sele'm'tinel'ti'non'n."

Sume’ waited quietly, guessing as to the occurrence.

The High Queen drew her sword, “Draw your sword against Me, Young One."

Sele’ bowed her head, “I cannot do as such, my Queen."

"You question My command, Young One?"

Sele’ looked confused, then drew her sword, “No, my Queen."

"Fight Me."

Sele’ raised her sword to her Queen's, hitting it once, as was the customary fashion to begin the duel. She then maneuvered as she had been taught, fully engaged in the fight, but without her powers. San'lr'in’ watched carefully, noting that Sele’ fought fully against her, but with clear intention of not winning against her High Queen. San'lr'in’ also took note of Sele's abilities without her powers, and was pleased.

She halted the fight, “Enough, Young One. I have a request of you."

Sele’ resheathed her sword, then bowed her head, “Anything, my Queen."

The High Queen closed her eyes for a moment, held out her hands, and chanted quietly. The small light of power appeared before her. She reopened her eyes and held the ball in front of her, “You are aware of the Wizard of the Ravens, Young One?"

"Yes, my Queen."

"The Realm has much need of your powers, Young One, as do I. It is the moment to return your powers to you, but prior to doing as such, you need know two things."

"Yes, Highness."

"The first is that you must understand the great risk to your life in this battle, as is true for all of us. Do you understand this risk, Young One?"

Sele’ closed her eyes slowly and reopened them, sighing deeply her understanding, “I am fully aware of this one's powers, my Queen. I know well that we are all at great risk of not surviving this battle."

San'lr'in’ saw that Sele’ sounded much older now, even given her youngness, “There are many dark forces in The Realm, Young One, and they will all try to bring you to their side throughout your cycles, and this you know. But none will ever match the power of the Wizard of the Ravens. Just prior, you succumbed to the dark powers. As I return your powers to you, your greatest struggle will begin in this regard. Upon that moment, the Wizard of the Ravens will sense your great powers and will use all her abilities to bring you to her side."

San'lr'in’ sighed, then looked for a moment at Sume'. She then turned back to Sele', “I know that with all your strength you will try to remain close to The Realm and to Me, but know this. Should you fall to the Wizard of the Raven's dark powers, I will have no choice but to remove you from The Realm, and instantly so. Do you understand, Sele'm'tinel'ti'non'n?"

Sele’ nodded, looking far older than her cycles. In truth, there were none about The High Queen at present that doubted she would remove Sele’ quickly from The Realm, if needed, having just seen as such with the High Wizard Sorcerer, “Fully so, my Queen. And this will not occur. I vow this to you and The Realm."

San'lr'in’ met Sume's eyes, and Sume’ nodded her understanding, “She understands her role, San'lr'in', as you did long prior."

"Then prepare yourself, Sele'm'tinel'ti'non'n, as the very moment your powers are restored to you, the Wizard will seek them."

Ann'wn, Meera, and Fon'elnn’ were standing nearby, prepared to do as necessary should Sele’ be taken over by the Wizard of the Ravens, as commanded. Sle'nel’ stood off to one side, hoping and trusting that Sele’ would withstand the Wizard's first attempt. After having witnessed what her lover had to do with the High Wizard Sorcerer, she was most unsure of the moment.

San'lr'in’ moved the small ball of light near Sele's head. She began to chant another spell, then slowly guided the ball into Sele's mind. Sle'nel’ watched carefully as it disappeared, observing both her lover as well as her Birth-daughter.

When the powers had fully entered into Sele', San'lr'in’ stepped back, observing. Sele’ struggled with the feeling for a moment, then winced, fighting against the Wizard.

Sume’ went to Sele', touching her on the shoulder, “The Realm awaits you, Young One."

San'lr'in’ placed her hand on Sele's other shoulder, “Hide your powers and thoughts from the Wizard, Young One. Allow her not into your mind."

Sele’ struggled, “She is strong."

San'lr'in’ placed her hands on Sele's head, “Cast a spell against her, then remove her from sensing you, Young One.” She assisted Sele’ in her efforts, guiding what she must do. Sele’ was grateful for the guidance, unsure of how to remove the Wizard's sensing from within her thoughts.

"Enter into your fourth meditation, Young One. Remove yourself from The Realm, and from the Wizard."

Sume’ closed her eyes and chanted a spell of strength for Sele'. Her powers were those of a great sorcerer, but were not close to the powers of the Wizard of the Ravens, or of Sele's, but helped Sele’ fight against the moment.

"Now, Young One. Cast your spell."

Sele’ did as The High Queen commanded, then followed The High Queen's guidance as she placed a block on her senses, successfully removing the Wizard from her thoughts.

She felt The High Queen and the High Priestess remove their hands from her, and brought herself out of her meditations, “It is done, Highness. She has been removed. But I couldn't do as such alone. How am I to know if I am strong enough? Perhaps you should keep these powers within you."

San'lr'in’ crouched down to Sele's level, smiling, “You have done well, Sele'm'tinel'ti'non'n. Her powers are overly strong to expect that you could do as such alone, at this moment. But it was you who withheld against the dark powers. It was your desire, not mine."

Sele’ felt deeply within herself, feeling her powers, testing them quietly. She looked up to her Queen, “I am prepared, Highness. I am at your bidding."

The High Queen placed both her hands on Sele's cheeks, holding them softly, “I am sorry for this moment, Young One, but we are in great danger. What we do now is for The Realm."

Sele’ nodded solemnly, “I understand, my Queen."

San'lr'in’ rose and placed her hand on Sele's head, “As High Queen of The Realm, I welcome you as fully returned into The Realm, Future Supreme Sovereign. Go. Prepare yourself. The departure is in the morn. I now give My need of you and your powers. Think fully on these, as the moment will arrive soon."

San'lr'in’ sent her thoughts to Sele', then removed her hand, “Until the morn, Young One. Your Aunt High Priestess will be with you through the eve."

Sume’ offered her hand to Sele'. Sele’ took it, then looked at San'lr'in', “I will not disappoint you, my Queen."

"Come now, Young One. We must prepare you for the morn."

When they had gone, San'lr'in’ turned toward Sle'nel', holding out her hand, “Come with Me, My Desire?"

Sle'nel’ saw that her lover looked as if the weight of all The Realm lay upon her. She took San'lr'in's hand, and they walked off onto a forest's path. San'lr'in’ remained quiet until they reached a small clearing. Turning to Sle'nel', she took both of Sle'nel's hands into her own.

"Our moments together have been but a short while, yet they have filled My life unlike anything prior."

Sle'nel’ felt the heaviness in San'lr'in's heart, “Mine as well, San'lr'in'."

San'lr'in’ nodded, “I know this well, Sle'nel'. I sense your love upon every moment. You have given Me the only true happiness and love I have had in My entire lifespan, and I know not how to thank you for this great gift. But I am sorry that I have brought you into this awareness in The Realm, as I have brought you into great danger. I know not if we will survive this battle, My Desire."

Sle'nel’ couldn't recall San'lr'in’ ever having used her name, so knew well her serious intent in the moment. She shrugged slightly, “It matters not, San'lr'in', and this is truth. What would it matter if I were yet in Woden? If this battle is lost, Woden will also become as such. I would rather be at your side than have remained as ignorant in Woden. I wouldn't give one moment of our union away, Lover."

San'lr'in’ brought Sle'nel’ to her, embracing her tightly. After a moment, she removed herself from the embrace, then placed her hands on Sle'nel's shoulders, “Listen well, Elf, as if I die in this battle, you must force yourself to turn away from that moment so as to save the others. Sele'm'tinel'ti'non'n, most of all must be saved. This is your charge, Sle'nel'. I cannot be foremost on your mind. You must turn yourself willingly away from Me, as of the beginning of the battle."

"But I thought I was to fight at your side."

"I have great need of your sorcery, and this is truth, but you will not be at My side, Elf. You will fight from elsewhere. We must use every power and spell against this one, all at the same moment, but not together, as we could be overly easily defeated in this fashion. The further apart we remain, the more difficult we make it for the Wizard."

"You are going to prevent my sensing of you?"

"I am sorry, Sle'nel'. It must be as such. If I fall in this battle, it would be better for you not to know, as you must remain fully in the fight. Your senses must remain fully on The Realm's future leader."

Sle'nel’ held San'lr'in’ to her, speaking softly, “My heart will know, my Love. Regardless of what you believe will be so, my heart will know. But why do you believe so strongly that you will not survive this battle? Is that not giving in to the moment?"

San'lr'in’ looked dead-on into Sle'nel's eyes, “I know it feels as such, My Desire, and that it feels like I have given in. In truth, I know how much this will take to defeat this Wizard. In all the realms about us, far off into the skies, this Wizard defeated them all. We are nothing in comparison to all those who fought so desperately against her. But know this to be truth. She has met her match in Me, My Desire. If I must die, then must she."

* * * *

Sle'nel’ woke in the overly early morn to San'lr'in's thrashing about the bed, “You sleep not?"

The moon's shine shone brightly through their windows, casting lightness throughout the room. San'lr'in’ leaned her head on her propped-up hand, gazing down at her lover. She spoke her need quietly, “I wish to enjoy our last moments prior to our departure. I need to be with you."

Sle'nel’ began to move gently into the moment, but San'lr'in's need was more urgent and desperate. She moved between Sle'nel's legs, capturing the moment firmly, aggressively seeking a lasting closeness, together. No matter Sle'nel's need, San'lr'in’ prevented her any release, pushing their desires to the point that Sle'nel’ could only gasp her need, “Please, San'lr'in'."

The sun had begun its turn's journey as Sle'nel’ and San'lr'in’ finally held each other tightly in their single moment of release. After a few moments of resting, as Sle'nel’ yet lay slightly winded from their exertion, The High Queen kissed her softly on her cheek.

Sle'nel’ looked at her lover, seeing that her eyes were moist. Ever prior, Sle'nel’ had been able to make any moment more light for her lover, but this moment was more difficult than either knew what to do with. Sle'nel’ breathed in deeply, trying to restore calmness to her. She touched San'lr'in's cheek, then smiled, “You ever amaze me, Lover."

In an effort to regain her self-control San'lr'in’ closed her eyes for a moment. She reopened them, then also smiled, “Then I am pleased."

They held the moment quietly between them, unmoving, studying each other, when finally Sle'nel’ said, “Amaze me once more, Highness?"

"Surely you cannot mean that you need more touc—"

Sle'nel’ shook her head, “No. Not this. Amaze me by returning to me."

"Ever remember, Sle'nel', I love you, and most strongly so. If there be but a thread of possibility, I will do your bidding."

As they prepared for the morn's meeting, then departure, San'lr'in’ sat down next to Sle'nel’ on the edge of their bed, holding her hand, “My Desire. I have something that I must share with you.” Sle'nel’ listened to her lover's tale, in full saddened disbelief of what she was hearing.

* * * *

The High Queen had called all her close council together for the morn meal. Ann'wn, Meera, Caitha, Erthrn, Fon'elnn', The Healer, Mil'der'in, Sume', An'ther'on and Sele’ were all in attendance, waiting for their High Queen.

When San'lr'in’ had finished telling Sle'nel’ mostly of what was to occur, they went to the morn's meeting. As they ate their morn meal, all eyes were fully upon their Queen, wondering as to her plans. Even Sle'nel’ hadn't guessed as to her lover's full intent until she had been told of such.

During the meal, San'lr'in’ told them her battle plan, “Queen Erthrn. You will need to hold the left flank, ensuring that..."

The morn extended into the late after mid-morn, San'lr'in’ giving each one their roles and responsibilities for the battle.

"And where will you be, Highness?"

San'lr'in’ turned to Ann'wn, taking a deep breath, then sighing, “In the Keep, Force Leader."

They all gasped at her words, fully surprised. Erthrn gained her voice first, “In the Keep? How can this be as so, Highness?"

"How do you plan to enter the Keep, my Queen?"

"You cannot do this alone, Highness."

She ignored their comments and questions, “We must all tend to our own roles in this battle, My Most Treasured Council, as it will take our strongest efforts to defeat this Wizard. I called you together this morn as you are The Realm's strongest powers and leaders. But none of you can do as usual, which is to worry over your High Queen. This cannot be as so. You must tend to your own duties."

"But my Queen, it is my duty to watch over yo—"

"No, Force Leader. In this battle, this is not so. I command your full attentions to the battle. I will be elsewhere, far from your oversight. Not one of you can risk your moments on Me, or on each other."

They began to argue with The High Queen, when suddenly, surprising all those now about her, San'lr'in’ knelt before Sume'.

Sume’ looked down on her, fully shocked, “What are you doing? Kneel not before me."

The High Queen held her great red stone out to Sume', “I request a great favor of you, High Wizard Sorcerer."

Sume’ wondered what San'lr'in’ was doing, when suddenly it came to her. Her eyes widened, “You cannot do this! Your heart is not healed enough for such as this."

San'lr'in’ looked up, “Only you can do this for Me, and it must be done. I must have this power."

"It will cause severe, irreversible harm."

The Healer suddenly pieced together the conversation, “No! You cannot do this. I cannot allow this to occur, High One. She is correct. You cannot recover from such as this. Even with a strong heart, this is overly dangerous."

Sele’ nodded, “You are all correct. She needs this power, but it will cause great harm."

Sume’ shook her head to her sister, “Why do you think you must give yourself to The Realm in this fashion? By the turn, all our powers grow. Surely, this will be enough."

Sle'nel’ came to her, “Do you care so little for the feelings of those that love you, Lover?"

San'lr'in’ sighed, then rose, “I am in full awareness that not one of you can know why I now request this favor, but you must try to understand. The Realm needs Me to have this power. There is no other choice. I wish not for this, but it must be so. We must not lose this battle or all will be lost, forever. All that we have gained will be lost, in but one short moment. I do this not for glory, My most favored in all The Realm. I do this as it is My vow. And My vow includes you. And there is no other way in which to win this battle."

Sume’ looked at her, “I cannot allow this to be so, San'lr'in'. We cannot have come this far to have it end this quickly. I have great powers now. Together, we will defeat this Wizard."

Sle'nel’ touched her lover's cheek, “You know fully that we cannot allow harm to come to you, Lover. We cannot willingly do as such. You taught me that we always have alternatives."

San'lr'in’ looked sadly at all of them, sensing their desperation. She sighed deeply, holding her patience firmly to her. She spoke softly and slowly, ensuring that every word was made clear, “All that you say is truth, yet it is not the whole. I ... am ... High ... Queen. Above all else, I must stand firm."

She turned her eyes to Sle'nel', staring fully at her, “I cannot allow My desirings to command Me at this moment, Elfin Queen."

She turned to her Healer, “I am vowed, Healer, to tend to The Realm. And this you, more than most, know fully."

She then turned to Ann'wn, “I am High Queen, Force Leader. These are My vows. As are you, I am vowed to The Realm."

She then went to Erthrn, looking deeply into her eyes, “My most favored Queen of The Realm, you know like no other of what has been entrusted to My care."

Moving to her High Counselor, she touched her shoulder, “High Counselor. You know of what I must now do. Beyond all in this room, you know the burdens of My vows."

Then she turned her gaze back to Sume', “I am High Queen, High Wizard Sorcerer. Hear My plea. Help Me to fulfill My vows.” She pleaded, “Help Me to defeat this Wizard. I cannot do so without this power placed deeply within Me.” She hesitated, then added, “Please do this for Me, so that I may save My Realm."

The Healer knew that they were going to give in to her Queen's request, “Is there a way that this may occur while we can also protect your heart, High One?"

San'lr'in’ went to her and placed her hand on her cheek, “This is it, Healer, or I would do as such Myself. The High Wizard Sorcerer will allow for as much caution as available, while I cannot."

"Are your powers not enough?"

She turned to her Healer, touched her lightly on her cheek, then returned to Sume', “Do this for Me, High Wizard Sorcerer. I beg of you. I must have these powers placed within Me. The Realm needs as such. I cannot survive against her without them. I will have but one moment to win against this Wizard. It cannot be as it was against the Dark Sorcerer. I cannot go one-to-one against her powers, or I will lose. I must catch her completely unaware. This is that power. She will not be able to sense it, as she knows not of it."

Sele’ looked at her Aunt, “She will be the most powerful High Queen The Realm has ever prior known, Aunt High Wizard Sorcerer. And she will need to be as such against this Wizard."

Sume’ looked down at Sele', “You think I should agree to her request, young Future Supreme Sovereign? Are you not concerned for her life, Young One?"

Sele’ looked around at all of them, slowly moving from one to another, weighing her words carefully, “Our High Queen will most certainly die in this battle without these powers, Aunt High Priestess."

The Healer was angered at the moment, “And she will most certainly die with these powers, as well. Is that not also correct, Young One?"

Sele’ bowed her head for a moment, then looked at The Healer, “The High Queen is unable to know if this is as certain, Healer. But she knows fully that if she is to place these powers within herself, by her own hands, she will most certainly die by battle's end."

"And you? Are you able to know if the High Wizard Sorcerer places these powers within her, if she will die?"

Sele’ laid her head down on the table, wishing she also had more powers so she could answer the question, “No. It is but a guess only."

The High Queen knelt back down in front of Sume', “I have no more moments, High Wizard Sorcerer. Already many moments are lost to us. You either must decide for this, Sister, or I will place these powers within Me, alone. Either way, it will be done. I must have these powers."

Sume’ had never prior felt at such a loss, “You ask overly of me."

San'lr'in’ smiled slightly, her eyes beginning to twinkle, “Trust Me, Sister?"

Sume’ laughed quietly for a brief moment, “Surely you jest."

"Trust Me, Sume'n'tinel'ti'non. Trust that I know what I ask of you."

Sume’ placed her hand lightly on her sister's head, desiring anything that would remove this moment from her, “Left to me, I would not do this. I do this only for you, San'lr'in'thel'ineln', only because of who you are. But I will do so only on two conditions."

The High Queen waited.

"Live."

"You also ask much of Me, High Priestess."

"Live, and return to us. Agree to this, and I will grant your request."

San'lr'in’ thought on her sister's words, then nodded, “I vow that I will give My every effort to your condition. What is your second condition?"

"Take this power in well, San'lr'in'. Prevent it from injuring your heart."

She hesitated, “It will become My heart, so I know not how to do th—"

"I can displace the transfer, Highness."

She looked to the voice, “Are you certain, Young One, that you wish to do as such?"

Sele’ bowed her head, “For you, Highness."

Sume’ began the spells and chants needed to transfer the great red stone of power into The High Queen. The transfer, as they had now learned, would be a most amazing one—the Great Red Stone of Power would now become The High Queen's heart. None thought it possible, but thought that if their High Queen asked for such, it must be so. San'lr'in’ moved into her meditations so that she could distance from the pain that was about to occur, and Sele’ stood close by, waiting to help her Queen.

Sume’ felt herself move away from The Realm, calling to forces she never thought possible. She focused fully, knowing the enormity of the moment if she allowed her sister to be harmed. The spell came to her as it unfolded, and as if she had known it her entire lifespan.

After many moments of chanting the spell, she bent down, holding the Great Red Stone of Power near her sister's heart. She saw that San'lr'in's eyes were watching her, but sensed that she was as far from the moment as possible. As Sume’ nodded her head to Sele', Sele’ placed her hand over San'lr'in's heart, then placed her other hand on the stone. For a brief moment, Sume’ chanted yet another spell, helping Sele’ to displace San'lr'in's heart as they moved the red stone within her. Slowly, Sume’ motioned the stone into The High Queen's chest. Sle'nel’ watched with great concern, now seeing that Sele’ was in great pain, Sume’ also was struggling, and her lover's face showed the extent of the unendurable agony.

San'lr'in’ had placed herself into her meditations, but knowing that she would have to be fully in the moment if she were to remain alive. As Sume’ moved the red stone within her sister's heart, San'lr'in’ brought herself back into The Realm. She gasped as the stone moved through her skin, permitting herself to only clinch her hands tightly while all else remained firm and unmoving. As the stone moved further into her, groans of enormous pain escaped, making all those present shudder.

Finally, as the stone neared its destination, Sume’ halted her chanting, and Sele’ moved her hand away. But all watched in horror as The High Queen's eyes opened widely as if in shock and disbelief, while her mouth opened wide as if to scream. Yet, no sound came.

To The High Queen, the pain was as if her heart were being ripped excruciatingly slowly from its center, and as if her insides were on fire. Her lungs could no longer breathe, and she had no ability to make them do as such. She could feel the great power now within her, but couldn't yet attach her other powers to it, the ones that would help save her.

Suddenly, just as she thought she might die, she felt her lungs begin to breathe, and felt strength enter into her heart. She took in a deep breath, finally moving the fire away from her lungs. With no strength left in her muscles, she fell to a sitting position, leaning fully on one arm, the other clasping tightly onto her chest.

Take my strength, Highness.

San'lr'in’ heard Sele’ send the message, but hadn't yet the strength to respond. She focused on her breathing.

Breathe, High One. Hear my voice.

My strength is in your breathing, Highness. Find it.

Breathe.

Find my strength. Feel it.

After she felt she could maintain her breathing, she focused on Sele's words, trying to find the gift of strength that had been placed in her breathing. She felt for it, then found it. Breathing in now more deeply, she moved Sele's strength into her own.

Sle'nel’ stood close by, watching her lover struggle for her life. After what seemed overly long without a breath, Sle'nel’ saw San'lr'in’ finally breathe, taking in a breath as if she hadn't done so in many moons. Slowly, Sle'nel’ began to relax as she saw her lover's color begin to return.

She bent down next to her and placed her hand on her cheek, “Return to me, Lover."

San'lr'in’ was yet struggling, but was finally able to return to The Realm. She opened her eyes, feeling their weight. Sle'nel’ saw that her Queen looked as if the process had removed the last of her strength.

She smiled at her as she watched San'lr'in’ begin to focus on her, “Have you had enough of this yet, Lover?"

San'lr'in’ focused, seeing and hearing Sle'nel'. She gave the weakest of smiles, “I am fully here, My Desire."

"I am here for you, Lover."

She looked at Sle'nel', “Forget not My words to you, My Desire. The moment comes."

Sle'nel’ touched her hand to San'lr'in's arm, and whispered, “I will remember.” They shared a knowing look between themselves, saying nothing.

"Can you feel the powers, San'lr'in'? Did the spells do as needed?"

She nodded to Sume', and weakly replied, “Thank you."

She concentrated on her powers for a moment, quickly moving back into her meditations. For what seemed only a moment to all those waiting, seemed like an eternity to San'lr'in’ as she brought her new powers to her, infusing them solidly within all her other powers. When she was done, she breathed in deeply once more, opened her eyes, then stood.

"Careful, Highness."

Ann'wn gasped when she looked at her Queen, “My Queen. Your eyes."

She looked at Sle'nel', “My eyes?"

Sle'nel’ also looked shocked, “They are red."

"Like yours, when you call the Sorrows?"

Sele’ answered, “No. Birth-Mother's eyes are all red when that occurs. Your whites remain the same, but your eye center is red, like the stone."

San'lr'in’ felt slightly amused at the moment, but concentrated on her eyes for a moment, slightly removing the power from them.

Sle'nel’ nodded, yet surprised, “They are no longer red, but how did you do as such?"

San'lr'in’ began feeling her powers, testing them slightly. She felt stronger than ever prior, yet weaker, at the same moment. She knew she now had the ability to equal the Wizard of the Ravens, yet also knew that these powers could also kill her. She flexed them carefully for a moment, then jerked, shocked, as the Wizard of the Ravens called to her.

You are stronger than I had first felt. Yet weak, as well. But I can help this, should you allow me to do as such. Come to me, High Queen. Join me, and I will make you stronger than you ever believed possible. I could use one such as you. Join me. I need you. Be as one with me.

San'lr'in’ listened to the message, allowing the Wizard of the Ravens to know that she was intrigued.

Join me, High Queen. Feel how good my powers can feel within you.

San'lr'in’ was startled to learn that the Wizard of the Ravens could send the feeling of her immense powers. And she was surprised to learn the truth in the Wizard's statement—the feeling of the Wizard's powers felt wonderful. The feeling made her to desire more, but she held her thoughts firmly away from the Wizard.

Listen not to her, Highness.

She ignored Sele', desiring, needing more contact with the Wizard, but yet held her senses away from the Wizard.

And you are intelligent. I sense this deeply within you. My Ravens have informed me of your great beauty. Come to me, High Queen. Allow me to give you far greater powers than you have ever prior imagined. Even all the ones you now hold are nothing compared to my gifts that await you.

Allow not the Dark Powers to call to you, High Queen.

She ignored Sele's thoughts, yet desiring more from the Wizard.

Feel me, High Queen. Feel how good my powers feel.

She closed her eyes, enjoying the deep pleasure the Wizard was sending to her. Her heart no longer hurt, and she felt as if she were floating. She knew she had allowed the Wizard of the Ravens to feel her interest, and she knew that the Wizard of the Ravens would try again.

Suddenly, someone slapped her, “Enough, San'lr'in'. Remove your thoughts away from this Wizard. You allow yourself to be called to the Dark Powers."

San'lr'in’ touched her cheek where Sume’ had slapped her, feeling the stinging that now occurred. Ignoring it, she risked a slight glance at Sle'nel', and nodded almost imperceptibly.

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