Chapter XIV The Wizard of the Ravens

They left for the battle immediately after the transfer of powers. All The Realm's forces were now traveling to the southern hemisphere, all on different routes, but all in continual communication with the other forces. The High Queen's Private and Black Guard were already near the Wizard's Keep, but at a safe distance. And even the Mungardies had gathered all their forces to fight alongside The High Queen.

As they rested their horses for a few moments, Ann'wn reported, “My Queen?"

"Tell Me."

"The Elves have sent a report. The flying horses are defeating The Ravens."

"At what loss?"

"Only three, my Queen. They are attacking in groups of three, and seem to be successful."

"I am pleased. Any other report?"

"An'ther'on sends a report, Highness."

"Tell Me."

"She hears strange sounds from within the Keep."

She nodded, “It is to be expected. She brings others into our Realm from the OuterRealm. We can but only guess as to what or who these be."

Ann'wn shivered at the thought, “She reports that there is much smoke from inside the walls."

The High Queen frowned, “It is as expected, but unfortunate."

Their journey was long, from just north of the middle of The Realm to its southern hemisphere, fully many turn's travel. They rode throughout the turns, halting only briefly during the late eve, yet only enough to allow the horses their needed rest.

On the second eve, Roen requested an audience, “Seer Roen. Tell Me."

"The battle will be won, Highness."

"Can you tell Me of the battle?"

She shrugged, “I see after the battle only. The losses are great, but your closest to you live."

"The Wizard of the Ravens?"

"She dies, but lives. I know not what I see in this. But I see one thing most fully, Highness. A red stone. This you must keep close to you, even if you think it overly late."

"Have you seen anymore in regard to this Wizard, Seer?"

"I see the same, Highness. She is more, yet less than you are aware. But I also see that she is with great power and intelligence, and that her attachment to you is true."

The High Queen considered her words, then nodded, “Thank you, Seer Roen. You serve Me well."

On their third eve, San'lr'in’ brought her powers more fully to her, yet allowing her thoughts to become slightly opened—she needed to know more about the Wizard. It took only a moment prior to the Wizard contacting her, as she knew she would.

You are coming to me. I can feel this as so.

San'lr'in'thel'ineln’ gave no return message, but kept her mind slightly open.

You want to learn more about me. I can sense this. As I do you. You have willingly opened your mind to me. But allow me to give you a small gift first, of my need of you. Feel this gift, then take it if it pleases you.

Suddenly, she could see another Realm. She could see the life on it as if it were her Realm.

Amazing, is it not? I can open all this to you and make it yours. Ours. Come to me and share my glory with me. I have waited long for such as you. I have watched and waited for you, High Queen. Let me show you my love for you.

You seek to destroy this Realm.

The Wizard was delighted, You have finally chosen to answer me. But no, High Queen, I don't wish to destroy this Realm. I seek only to make it as mine, as it once was. Allow this not to interfere with us. Come to me, High Queen, and meet with me.

You already know that we come.

I know your forces come, but I care nothing about this. I want you to come to me, to meet with me, here. Where I live. Come to me, and be mine.

San'lr'in’ chose not to respond.

Think on my offer, and I will ask it of you at another moment. But do me one small favor, High Queen, and I will not destroy your forces that are now around my Keep.

Tell Me of your request.

Allow one of my Ravens to land on your arm so that I might see you through its eyes.

How will I know that you have spared My forces?

You are in contact with them, is this not truth?

In two turns, then.

Your forces should thank you for this, but I thank you most of all. Until then, my Beauty.

* * * *

"She has responded to you, Wizard?"

The Wizard was pleased at the thought of The High Queen, “She was receptive."

"Wizard, I would warn against thinking that this High Queen would come to you as easily as this. She is most loyal to The Realm and would not give in as easily as this."

She glared at her captain, “Bah! You know nothing of power, idiot. Go, and prepare for her forces."

"They leave, Wizard?"

"She comes, as do they all, as we planned. But she will come to me. I can feel this as so. I intrigue her. Already I can feel her separating from her forces."

"Perhaps it is a trick, Wizard."

She backhanded her advisor with great force, then looked at her, smiling, thinking once again about San'lr'in', “Tell me about her. Tell me of her beauty."

Her advisor wiped the blood away from her mouth, “Like no other, Wizard. Her beauty shines beyond all else, across all this Realm. Her hair is the color of auburn, a deep-rich red that beckons to be touched. And her form is striking, beyond all others."

She spoke aloud, but spoke only to herself, “Finally. My longing will be satisfied.” She smiled at the thought, then suddenly turned on her advisor, once again, “You had better be correct, Advisor, or it will be your life."

She bowed her head, “My words cannot describe her beauty, Wizard. She is all this, and more."

"Excellent. And I will know of this, personally, in two turns."

* * * *

"How do you know which direction to lead, Master?"

U'Aine examined Keddi for a moment, “I have been there."

"Will we arrive prior to any battle?"

U'Aine looked at Andren, thinking how odd it felt to travel with a man, “We would hope for such, Hengist."

"Andren, Master."

U'Aine stared at him, saying nothing.

"I am called by Andren."

U'Aine was unsettled by what she had learned from The Realm. As they traveled, she had various messengers bring her reports from The High Queen's Private Guard, as well as her own various messengers. Like The High Queen, U'Aine had learned to seek many sources throughout The Realm, never relying solely on any one of them.

What she had learned disturbed her. She knew that her High Queen had placed herself into jeopardy. And while this wasn't unknown to her, as The High Queen often did as such, never had she been so far removed from The High Queen as upon this moment.

"You have received a bad report?"

She turned to Sam, who had walked over to her. She allowed a small smile upon seeing her, “Highest."

"The battle has begun?"

She shook her head, “No. Not as yet. The High Queen has taken a new power into herself."

"She is stronger, then."

"It is not a power to be used in such a fashion. She takes great risk."

"Great risk to save The Realm."

"Yes, this, most certain."

"The stronger she is, the more likely she will but survive against this Wizard."

"Not with this power. If she doesn't die by the Wizard, she will surely do so through this power. Even she cannot control such a thing."

"Then why...?"

"That is the question that I cannot yet answer."

* * * *

Ann'wn had sensed her Queen growing distant from them, “My Queen?"

She sighed deeply, “Tell Me."

"About the Keep, Highness."

She turned and stared at her, but said nothing.

"We think it overly dangerous for you to attempt to enter it, my Queen."

The High Queen closed her eyes for a moment, quickly sensing that many others were now about them, “I have given My command in this regard."

"But, my Queen, we think that—"

"Leave Me, Force Leader."

"Highness. This Wiza—"

Suddenly, The High Queen drew her sword, placing its tip at Ann'wn's throat, “Leave Me."

Ann'wn was surprised, but knelt before her Queen, “Highness."

The High Queen had a moment of softness take over, feeling pleased that Ann'wn had finally learned to deal directly with her. But she also knew that this wasn't the moment she could show her pleasure. She needed to learn more about the Wizard of the Ravens, and she needed her forces to be more independent of her. Suddenly, The High Queen sensed a stranger's arrival. She looked up to a tree, seeing the visitor.

She resheathed her sword, then held out her arm, “Come to Me."

The Raven flew down to her, landing on her arm much in the fashion as her own raptor had done upon so many prior moments. Ann'wn became fully surprised at such, as did all the forces now about them, wondering why their Queen would bring such an enemy to her. She rose and moved slightly away from her Queen and the raven.

"Why do you allow as such, my Queen? This is an enemy in our midst."

She looked at Sle'nel', pleased in her response, but refrained from any smile, “I know what I do, Elfin Queen. I am High Queen."

"You may be High Queen, but this is foolish. This raven should be killed, and yet you entertain it on your arm as if it were a treasured visitor."

Sume’ had been told of the raven, “Kill this raven, San'lr'in', and quickly so."

"Anyone who moves to kill this raven will face My wrath."

Sume’ studied her briefly, “These Dark Powers call to you overly, San'lr'in'."

The High Queen glared at her, holding her arm steady, “You know not of what you say, High Wizard Sorceress. Mind yourself to your own doings. I know what I now do. All of you, leave Me."

Sle'nel’ came close, now angered, “You know nothing of what you now do. You are being taken over by this Wizard, San'lr'in'. Allow this to occur. You must fight her."

"Leave Me. All of you, LEAVE ME."

Sle'nel’ glared back at her lover, “I leave, gladly, San'lr'in', but I hope you will think well on our words. You move overly close to these Dark Powers."

She turned and stormed away, and slowly, so did the others. Ann'wn and Meera, however, remained behind, guarding their High Queen, yet confused well in their own thoughts. They watched as The High Queen stroked the bird's head. As she did so, she opened her mind, knowing the Wizard would be hoping for such.

You are astonishingly beautiful, High Queen. Come to me. I must have you.

I know you not.

But my powers intrigue you. You want to know more of them. Is this not truth?

She didn't answer. She sensed the Wizard laugh.

Are you not curious of my looks?

I have seen you.

You checked on me?

This is truth.

Did you find me appealing?

In truth, you are most alluring.

Allow me to give you another gift, High Queen?

She said nothing. She sensed the Wizard's laughing, then suddenly felt more powerful.

You send me more powers?

I want you strong, for me.

I am strong.

Yes. I know this as so, but I want you to desire these powers, to share them with me. And I need your heart strong.

How powerful are you?

I never tire.

San'lr'in’ waited a moment, then sent her thoughts, I am High Queen. What could you offer Me that is more than this?

You are High Queen of peasants. I can make you High Queen of many Realms. I can give you powers beyond your imaginings.

Why Me?

Power is more entertaining when shared. You understand power. And you are beautiful. Come to me. I can bring you here upon this instant. Tell me you will come to me. Let me bring you here to me. Let me show you my love of you.

I now come, and this you know.

No. Not this. I know of such. Allow me to bring you here through my sorcery.

My forces need Me.

They will be spared if you come.

I will think on this.

Two turns?

Two turns.

The High Queen closed her thoughts to the Wizard of the Ravens, then moved her arm so that the raven would leave. She closed her eyes for a moment, sensing who was now about her. She sensed that only Meera and Ann'wn were guarding her, but knew that they had seen enough and were fully confused, which is as she had planned. She returned to her tent where Sle'nel’ was waiting.

She spoke softly to her, “Two turns."

Sle'nel’ nodded, whispering in return, “These are most difficult of moments."

"You are doing well. Trust Me, Elf."

Sle'nel’ looked sad, but nodded, “Always."

* * * *

"You saw her, Wizard?"

She was smiling out the window, holding the image of San'lr'in’ in her mind, “I did. She allowed the raven to remain fully near her while we shared our thoughts. She is stunning. You were correct, Advisor. I shall reward you greatly, should she decide to come to me."

"Please mind that she is most intelligent, Wizard. This could be a trick."

The Wizard turned and glared, narrowing her eyes, “Enough! I know what I do. Have you so easily forgotten of my powers, Advisor? Also, I saw that she was angry at her forces."

She bowed her head, “My deepest apologies. Does she now agree to come?"

"I think she will do as such. She will let me know in two turns."

"She would leave her kingdom?"

"I can offer her so much more than these petty little peasants. When we have this Realm under our control once again, we will open communications with the other Realms."

"Yes, Wizard."

"Are the rooms prepared, for her coming?"

"Yes, Wizard. Fully prepared."

"I want her treated as I would expect, Advisor. She is to be mine."

"It will be so, Wizard."

* * * *

As U'Aine had told, they traveled quickly and without much rest. U'Aine was surprised in the resolve of those from Woden. She led their journey as they traveled, keeping a steady eye on Sam. At the end of the long turn, and as the moon hid itself behind the growing expanse of clouds, they made camp. U'Aine sat across from Sam, admiring her beauty. Sam looked at her, but said nothing. But U'Aine saw that her eyes spoke a thousand words.

"I cannot halt from looking at you, Highest."

Sam's eyes twinkled, “It is but the same for me, Master."

U'Aine felt her heart pound, and felt her need grow, but disguised it for the moment, “Your Woden forces travel quickly. I am pleased in this."

"We are well used to hardships. How long prior to our arrival?"

"I know not for certain, but perhaps six more turns if we can keep our quick pace."

"We can ride as quickly as you need, Master."

It began to rain lightly, so U'Aine rose and held out her hand to Sam, “May I escort you to your shelter, Highest?"

Sam looked up at her, then began to rise. Suddenly, it began to rain harder. She saw that all those about now fled quickly to their own shelters. She took U'Aine's hand and began to move toward her shelter, when U'Aine pulled her back to her.

"U'Aine. It is raining."

U'Aine held her tightly to her, “It is?"

Sam laughed lightly as U'Aine kissed her, fully, with deep passion.

"Tell me, Master. What is this battle to be like?"

U'Aine paused, “Enjoy the moments we now have, Highest."

* * * *

As the sun's set began, the Valley's forces halted their journey. During their eve meal, San'lr'in’ watched Sle'nel’ closely, wishing that they could spend more moments together. Sle'nel’ was sitting next to Caitha, slightly apart from San'lr'in', but glanced over to her and saw her looking saddened.

Sle'nel’ rose and went to her, holding out her hand, “Come. We must speak."

The High Queen nodded and took her hand, rising. As they walked slightly away from the encampment, she brought Sle'nel’ close to her, “I will miss you greatly."

Sle'nel’ felt her heart drop, “I as well. Be strong, San'lr'in'. You cannot be concerned over us. We know our duty. But are you certain there is no other way?"

She looked into her eyes as she ran her finger softly across Sle'nel's eyebrow, “I have turned this over and over in My mind, but can think of nothing else that will work with such certainty."

She kissed her, sharing her desperation.

"You shake."

"The moment will not be easy, My Desire."

"I will be here when it is over. All you must do is return. Worry over nothing else. We will all do as necessary. Think not on what you must do."

"I am sorry, My Elf. I am deeply sorry for this moment."

Sle'nel’ wiped her eyes dry, then nodded, “I know this as truth, San'lr'in'. Do as you need, and trust us, my Lover."

San'lr'in’ held her tightly for a moment, “Remember our stars, Sle'nel'. It will ever be in My mind and heart."

"To our stars, my Queen."

"And know this as truth, My Desire. If I die prior to being able to send you a message, My last thought is of you."

Sle'nel’ walked back to the fire alone, while San'lr'in’ took the moment to call her powers more fully to her, and to shield them. As she finally walked back to the fire, she felt Ann'wn near her. Feeling a moment of guilt, she pushed it firmly away, knowing that what she was about to do was the only way in which she could save her forces.

As she neared the fire, she felt everyone's eyes upon her. They were fully wondering why Sle'nel’ came back into their camp crying.

"What did you do to her, Mean One?"

She took a deep breath, feeling the pain that the moment was about to bring, and accepted its heaviness. She looked to her sister and waved her hand as if in dismissal, “It is nothing. She will be fine."

All those about the fire were in shock, knowing that The High Queen and Sle'nel’ never had such moments.

"You are in contact with the Wizard of the Ravens."

She glared at her sister, “I must know her further so I can learn of her weaknesses, High Wizard Sorcerer. This concerns you not."

Sume’ rose and glared back, “You are changing, San'lr'in'. You are moving closer to this Wizard. I can feel it as so. Remove yourself from her thoughts. You are entering into your meditations more upon each turn so as to speak with her. This must halt."

"I must fight against this one, High Wizard Sorcerer. Do you know of another way in which to get to know of her weaknesses?” She hid her guilt and sorrow through her anger.

"You have fought many others without moving toward the Dark Powers. Why do you do so upon this moment?"

She sat down, once again waving her hand in dismissal, “I move not to the Dark Powers."

"You do. You have raised your sword against your Force Leader for no good reason. You are moving yourself steadily apart from all of us, and you have made our Elf to cry."

"Leave Me, High Wizard Sorcerer."

"I did not choose to come into your service, or do you conveniently not recall this?"

Suddenly, she saw a raven fly into camp. She rose and held out her arm, ignoring her sister.

"Come to Me."

"Kill that bird, San'lr'in'. Show us that you do not move to the Dark Powers. Kill this enemy of ours."

Meera pulled out her knife, but San'lr'in’ waved her hand lightly, making Meera to drop her weapon, “No one is to harm this bird.” She turned to the bird and stroked its head as if it were her raptor, “What report do you have for Me, Raven of the Wizard?"

She opened up her mind, knowing that the Wizard would be waiting for her.

What is your decision, High Queen? Will you come to Me? Do you choose to save your forces?

I wish not to be someone's slave, Wizard.

Slave? You will not be my slave. We will rule together. You will come to love me, as I already love you. I need you greatly, and yearn deeply for you. Feel my need of you.

She was again surprised in what the Wizard could send to her, as she suddenly felt the physical longing the Wizard had of her. The power amazed fully amazed her, as did the intense need and desire.

I know you not, especially in this regard.

You will learn. I know well that you require much in this regard. My messengers tell me that you require a physical release at least once upon each turn. I as well. We will be well-matched, High Queen. And I will satisfy your every desire. Will you come to me?

"San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. Return to us."

She ignored her sister and answered the Wizard, How do I know this is truth, and not trickery?

The Wizard sent her desire of her, fully, allowing her to feel her deep loneliness, and of her deep need for her. Even San'lr'in’ was surprised in the honesty of the moment.

I have shown you my heart, High Queen. I have opened it fully to you. Only you. Can you now feel this as so?

"Highness. Return. We need you."

She ignored Sele', I feel it.

Will you come? Will you come to me so that we may meet?

What if you don't wish Me, once I come?

This will not be so, but I will vow your safe departure, should that be your desire.

I am not such as you, Wizard. Our pasts are fully separate. You are long prior from here.

We are more alike than different, High Queen. Come to me, and we will work through these moments. Allow me to hold you, High Queen, and you will see. Come. Be my lady.

San'lr'in’ didn't respond, her heart feeling heavy in the moment. She felt as if she were betraying all those about her.

Please come to me, High Queen. Come to me.

I will not vow to remain, Wizard.

She could feel The Wizard's heart jump in delight, You will come for a meeting, High Queen? And this is fine, as I know that you will then stay. Come. I have a small celebration prepared for you. For us. Come to me. Tell me that you will come.

Now?

Yes. Tell me you will come.

"San'lr'in'. Halt this nonsense and return to us."

I will come.

San'lr'in’ felt the Wizard's delight in the statement.

Close your eyes, High Queen.

As she closed her eyes, she vanished from everyone's vision.

"Where did she go?"

* * * *

When she opened her eyes, she saw the Wizard standing before her. She moved her arm so that the raven that was yet upon it could fly away, then looked at the Wizard. She was surprised to see that the Wizard of the Ravens was smiling, fully pleased in the moment, “You are astonishingly beautiful, High Queen. Thank you for coming to me. I know that this has required great trust on your part."

San'lr'in’ bowed slightly, yet trying to shake off her disorientation. She removed her crown, as a display of respect, then smiled, “It is My honor, High Wizard. Many tales have been told of your abilities. Of all in The Realm, across all the eras, you are noted as the strongest."

She felt into her surroundings, sensing many guards with weapons fully aimed at her. And she noticed one woman standing quite near the Wizard, guessing it to be someone close to her.

The Wizard looked surprised, “Such as this? But enough. It is you I wish to dwell upon, and this is most easily accomplished, given your great appearance. By all the truths, you are beautiful!"

She saw that the Wizard held out her hands to her. She began to go to her, when suddenly she was halted at sword-point, “Wizard. She is fully armed."

The Wizard of the Ravens backhanded the guard, “Idiot. Did I not command that no guards were to be present?” She turned to her advisor, “Rid me of these guards."

"But, Wizard. She could make a move against—"

The Wizard gave a small spell, sending her advisor flying into the nearby wall, “NO ONE SPEAKS BACK TO ME.” San'lr'in’ watched her carefully, seeing her temper flare beyond reason. The Wizard looked back at The High Queen, then smiled, “Don't worry over these idiots. You and I both understand that you could make no move against me that would work. My sorcery is much stronger and quicker than yours. Is this not so, High Queen?"

Instead of answering, San'lr'in’ held out her hands, as the Wizard had done to her. The Wizard smiled warmly, her eyes softening to the moment, took San'lr'in's hands into her own and held them tightly. San'lr'in’ was surprised that the Wizard was so beautiful. She had seen her sleeping long prior, but hadn't been able to see her youth or beauty, “You are more beautiful than I recall, Wizard."

The Wizard laughed, “Perhaps it was the overly long sleep, High Queen, or may I call you by something else?"

"I am called by San'lr'in'thel'ineln'."

She tried out the name, “San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. It is a beautiful name. It is not a name of my era."

The Wizard removed her hands, moving one to San'lr'in's gown, running her finger along the inside seam, between her breasts, “I have never seen such a gown as this. This is truly magnificent."

"Your era did not have such as these, Wizard?"

The Wizard moved her fingers down between San'lr'in's breast, sensually feeling her skin. San'lr'in’ shivered lightly at the teasing touch, not able to halt her response.

The Wizard smiled at her, “You respond to my touch. I am pleased."

San'lr'in'thel'ineln’ removed the Wizard's hand, holding it in her own, “Perhaps you might be kind enough to give Me some patience in this regard, Wizard. I have just arrived."

The Wizard didn't look pleased, but cast the moment aside, “Of course, my San'lr'in'. Please forgive my rudeness. I have long been gone from The Realm, and my eagerness is often more than I can control, especially in this moment. Please allow me to show you my Keep."

As they began to move out of the room, the Wizard placed her arm across San'lr'in's shoulders, “You have come a far distance to be here with me. You please me well. You are even more than I dared hope for, my treasure."

San'lr'in’ looked up at her, “I wasn't aware you had such strength as to bring me such a distance. My forces are fully yet three turns from here."

"You forget the moat, High Queen. Four turns. But I can give you this power also."

She turned to her, halting their progress, and brought San'lr'in’ tightly to her. She stared into her eyes, “I have waited long for this moment. Kiss me, San'lr'in'. This much you can grant to me."

San'lr'in’ removed all her thoughts of the past from her mind, then leaned into The Wizard, fully. As they kissed, she thought of nothing but Sle'nel'.

* * * *

"Where did she go?"

"She has gone to the Wizard of the Ravens."

"Bring Sle'nel’ to me. She must be told."

"What are we to do, now? We cannot battle the Wizard of the Ravens without her."

Suddenly, another voice calmed their confusion, “We will do as she commanded. She has prepared us well for this moment. She commanded that you be independent of her. We must now follow her commands."

While Sle'nel’ spoke, Sume’ studied her for a long moment. She then walked over next to her and spoke softly, “You knew of this moment. You knew she was planning this. All these moments up to this were planned."

Sle'nel’ looked sideways at her, “You must trust your sister, High Wizard Sorcerer. Only this. She has left us in control of the forces now, and has chosen you wisely. We must remain true to her commands."

Sume’ examined her again, guessing as to the occurrence. She spoke softly so no one else could hear her, “Tell me, Elf. Tell me that she intends to return to her reign."

Sle'nel’ looked sadly at her, “She intends to defeat the Wizard, as planned, High Wizard Sorcerer. We must all keep to our tasks now, for her. As she needs of us to do.” She then looked at Erthrn and Ann'wn, “You have your commands. You are now the leaders of the forces. Mil'der'in will act as High Queen while San'lr'in’ is gone. No further is to be spoken of this."

Ann'wn objected, “But her forces will think her a traitor."

Sle'nel’ turned on her, pulling her sword against Ann'wn, “Is that worse than what the Wizard of the Ravens will do to her, Force Leader, should she learn of this? THINK!"

Sume’ placed her hand on Sle'nel's sword, gently urging it downwards away from Ann'wn, and spoke softly, “She is correct, Elf. The High Queen's forces need to know."

Sle'nel’ lowered her sword, but her eyes remained narrowed in the moment, “Then tell them to trust their High Queen. Only this. No one must know of this."

Sume’ pushed the moment, “She is in the Wizard's Keep, Elf?"

Sle'nel’ nodded.

Sume’ placed her arm through Sle'nel's and began to walk them away from the camp, “Tell me of what occurs."

As Sle'nel’ quietly told her of the plan, Sume's eyes widened in disbelief.

"No one must know. No one, High Wizard Sorcerer."

"No one will know, Elf. Not even my beloved Erthrn."

When the tale was completed, Sume’ went to Ann'wn, “We rise early, Force Leader. We must arrive at the Wizard's Keep well prior than our plans."

Erthrn and Ann'wn both nodded, “It will be done."

"We will rest no longer. For The High Queen!"

Erthrn gave a hint of a smile to her lover, “It is as I thought, then. Our High Queen is with us through this battle.” She held out her arm to Sume', “Come. We have few moments now in which to rest. Our quest is clear, and we leave early."

* * * *

U'Aine watched all those about her as they readied their eve's camp. Unlike what she had seen throughout The Realm, the men and women from Woden all pitched in to help until the camp was fully readied, without being commanded to such.

As she completed the eve's fire, she heard a voice from behind her, “Master. I hear you are quite capable with the sword. A contest?"

She closed her eyes for a moment. She didn't wish to display her abilities, and especially against these overly naïve women. As she hesitated, Sam came to her, “Keddi is of The Realm, Master. She traveled throughout many of our lands and has learned much. She might surprise you in her abilities."

U'Aine rose and spoke to both of them, “In truth, Highest, I have seen her abilities with a bow and arrow, and am well impressed. Her sword skills are also far beyond those in The Realm."

Keddi taunted her, “It is as I thought. You are afraid of me."

U'Aine smiled, then snickered. Instead of drawing her own sword, she made a quick move against Keddi, taking her sword from her.

"Are you certain you wish me to draw my sword, Second?"

Keddi's eyes were wide in surprise, “How did you do as such? I didn't even feel you remove it from my hands."

U'Aine tossed Keddi's sword lightly back to her. She shrugged, “Training. Is there another, perhaps easier fashion that I am unaware of?"

Keddi readied her sword once again, “Fight against me fairly, Master?"

U'Aine drew her sword, hitting Keddi's quickly, making another sudden move, then made Keddi's sword come to her.

Sam laughed, “The High Queen has done as such to me. I seem unable to learn this move, but it is a useful trick."

Keddi just shook her head, taking her offered sword back, and re-sheathing it, “You are quick, Master.” Then Keddi smiled, “But are you as good with a bow?"

U'Aine raised an eyebrow, “We shall see. Make a match, Second. You have your contest."

Keddi had some of the guards make targets on various trees, far distant. When all was readied, U'Aine was given one of Keddi's bows, “Would you like to go first, Master?"

U'Aine shook her head, “No. I would like us to shoot at the same moment. I wish to see who is the quickest and most accurate."

Keddi agreed, “Highest. You are to provide for the beginning of the contest. Provide us our signal.” She designated a few guards to watch each of their arrows, so that accurate accounts would be provided.

"Are you readied, Master? Second?"

They each nodded, readying their bow and arrows.

"Readied. Aim. Shoot!"

U'Aine and Keddi shot their seven arrows quickly, barely with enough moments between their arrows to allow the other guards their chance to observe carefully. They finished shooting at the same moment.

"The red-tipped ones are the Master's. Mine are black-tipped."

Two of the guards nodded and went running off to the seven targets. Keddi looked at the Master, smiling, “Care to place a wager, Master?"

U'Aine smiled softly, without malice, “I rather like this bow."

"Done, should you win."

"And if you win, what is your desire?"

"Your sword."

U'Aine nodded, “It is agreed then."

Keddi laughed, “It is a shame, Master, that you will lose this wager."

U'Aine just shrugged, yet smiling, “I am certain it is as you say, Second."

The guards returned. Sam asked, “The outcome? Who won?"

Andren answered, “It is, in truth, Highest, most amazing. Both placed their arrows dead center, in all seven targets."

"A draw, then?"

Andren shook his head, “This is the most amazing of it, Highest. The red-tipped arrows each split the black-tipped arrows. Dead center."

Keddi looked fully astonished, “This could not be so. Explain yourselves."

Andren held up the arrows, displaying that each black-tipped arrow had been split fully down the center by the red-tipped arrows. Keddi took one, holding it close to her, seeing for herself. She shook her head in amazement, “This is not possible. No such thing can occur."

Sam laughed, “No, Second? Then how do you explain it?"

Keddi looked at Sam, back down at the arrows, then to U'Aine. She went to her and held out her arm in warrior fashion, “I am impressed, Master. You have my deepest respect."

U'Aine grabbed Keddi's arm in warrior fashion, then placed her other hand on Keddi's shoulder, “You are not an easy archer to beat, Second. But I will enjoy your bow."

Keddi laughed, then removed her own bow from her shoulder, “Here. This is my newest and strongest. You have won it fairly."

U'Aine took it and smiled at Keddi gently, “Thank you, Woden Warrior Woman. I am honored to be in your company."

Sam looked at all of them, “We but needed the entertaining diversion, yet our moments grow away from us. We leave early, well prior to the sun's rise."

* * * *

The attendant knelt and bowed, “Your morn meal, High Queen."

She turned and looked at her, “You have been assigned as My attendant?"

She saw that the woman looked petrified, “It is so, High Queen. Do I not please you?"

San'lr'in’ sighed softly, “You have done nothing to displease Me. Has the Wizard yet awoken?"

"Oh no, High Queen. She sleeps until late after midmorn. Is there anything you require of me, High Queen?"

San'lr'in’ was pleased to learn that the Wizard wouldn't be about for a while longer, “I have great need of some clean garments, and I could use some water to bathe in. My journey has been long.” She was yet tired, having spent most the eve in the company of the Wizard, but had great need to learn of her surroundings.

The woman nodded, yet keeping her head bowed, “I have anticipated such, High Queen. Your bath awaits in the side room."

While she was being bathed and attended, she used the moments to learn more of the Wizard's Keep, “Tell Me about this fortress. Is it strong?"

As her attendant spoke freely, she drew a map of the Keep in her head for later use. She was pleased that the attendant needed little encouragement to speak, using the moments to also hide her thoughts well away from the Wizard's scrutiny. So that the Wizard wouldn't question why she was prevented from sensing into San'lr'in's thoughts, she provided a well-disguised alternative, one that would lead the Wizard to sense her as curious and desirous. She well knew that the Wizard was vain enough to believe these to be her real thoughts, without question. And San'lr'in’ also well knew that the Wizard wouldn't take any more moments to seek further, after learning of The High Queen's desiring of her.

"The Wizard will be most anxious to see you when she rises, High Queen."

"Are there any events for the turn?"

"A banquet and a celebration, in your honor."

"Who is to attend?"

"You, M'Lady. Only you."

* * * *

"I am tired, yet we must travel more quickly. We must arrive sooner."

Ann'wn shook her head, “The horses cannot travel more in a turn, Queen Erthrn. They need to rest."

"We leave as soon as they are rested, then."

Sle'nel’ observed all those about her, standing well apart at the edge of the forest. She struggled against her feelings, fighting against the desperation of the moment. She knew that her lover was now with the Wizard, and knew well what that meant, yet while also understanding the reason for it.

"She is a rare leader to make such a sacrifice."

She turned her head to the voice, having not heard her approach, “She saw no other option, Healer."

The Healer sat at the ground and leaned against a tree, “It was the one thing that came between us, when we were lovers."

"The sacrifices she makes for The Realm?"

She nodded, “I couldn't control my worry over her, and it made many arguments between us. While I loved her greatly, I knew that I couldn't place such pressure on our High Queen. Ann'wn is well crazed in the moment. She feels helpless."

Sle'nel’ looked up into the sky, seeking any sign of the ravens, “I understand."

The Healer observed her for a moment, seeing her become the exact drawing of her mother, “Does she think she will defeat this Wizard, Elfin Queen?"

Sle'nel’ thought the use of the titles was ridiculous, especially in light of the upcoming battle, but ignored it, “Yes."

"But per her usual, she doesn't expect to survive the battle."

Sle'nel’ closed her eyes for a moment, feeling overly burdened at the statement, “Would you?"

"And now you must carry the burden of what The High Queen must do to protect our realm."

Sle'nel’ sighed, acknowledging the truth in the statement, but having no response to it.

The Healer looked down upon the ground, “I know not how you carry this burden. I can barely understand the moment, myself, and yet I do. It drives me as insane as if I were yet her lover."

"My Mother told both of us that there must be a reason for the Wizard returning to The Realm."

"What do you think may be this reason?"

"San'lr'in’ and I both believe that The Realm needs this Wizard's powers."

"But doesn't need the Wizard. So The High Queen needs to collect the Wizard's powers, for The Realm."

Sle'nel’ nodded, turning slightly away, deeply troubled in the moment.

Sele’ came up to them, bowing her head, “Birth-Mother. Healer."

Sle'nel’ saw that Sele’ was also troubled. She sat upon the ground near The Healer, and beckoned Sele’ to her lap, “What is it, our overly young Future Supreme Sovereign?"

"I understand this moment not at all. Why did she leave you? Us?"

Sle'nel’ drew her close, holding her.

The Healer absently fixed Sele's hair, using her hand, “She didn't leave us in the way you think, Young One. She did as such to save us. Merely this."

"Then why am I so sad in the moment?"

"Because you miss her, Sele'. We all miss her."

* * * *

"How far must we yet travel, Master?"

"Overly far. We are a few turns from the Keep, yet even if we rode with few riders, we could not travel any more quickly."

"Master?"

She looked at Andren, “Speak your mind."

"I was wondering if there were any male masters."

"You are interested in becoming a Master, Andren?"

"Yes, Master. You would find me a most willing student."

She looked up into the sky for any sign of the ravens, then looked back to Andren, “We shall see, Andren. The battle will determine much."

"I understand, Master."

She looked at him, “It is a rare moment for me to speak as such with a male. It is not as usual in the realm I come from, but in Woden..."

He nodded his understanding, then left her to tend to her meditations. As she exited from them, her mood was anything but calmed and controlled.

"Has the battle yet begun?"

She turned and saw Sam sitting on the ground, waiting for her, “Not as yet, but soon. The High Queen has departed to the Wizard's Keep."

"Without Ann'wn?"

"Sorcery."

"The Wizard stole her away?"

"No. She went willingly."

"Willingly? Why would she but do as such?"

U'Aine’ sighed, wishing she could travel more quickly, “I can think of one reason only, but it is also of much risk. She has said to all that The Realm will not exit this battle as we enter it."

U'Aine looked at Sam, knowing that this journey could well be their last moments together, “You must now know that she was most correct in this, Highest. The Dungaras were a most difficult opponent, and the Mungardies are even more so. But the Wizard of the Ravens is the most difficult The Realm's forces of this era will ever face."

* * * *

San'lr'in’ hadn't seen the Wizard throughout the turn, but was now being prepared for the eve's celebration. New garments had been given to her, and she was slightly amused, yet displeased that they had been modeled after her gowns in the Valley. She knew the Wizard's lusty intentions for the late eve, and while she had come to the Keep knowing of such, she was finding it overly difficult to accept the certainty of it. She removed the thoughts from her mind and firmly placed in the thoughts meant only for the Wizard.

She was escorted into the great banquet room, “My Wizard. I present to you your guest for the eve."

San'lr'in’ bowed her head as she removed her arm from the guard's, “Good eve, Wizard."

The Wizard turned from the fireplace where she had been standing and waiting. She smiled warmly as she saw The High Queen, “My San'lr'in'thel'ineln'.” She held out her hands to her, fully pleased in the moment. San'lr'in’ went to her and placed her hands into the Wizard's, smiling slightly.

"You are a vision well worth any wait, my curious one. Come. Join me at the fire while we learn more of each other."

San'lr'in’ felt the Wizard probe into her thoughts. She knew that the Wizard would only sense her as curious and desirous of her, as planned. The Wizard took but a short moment to sense into her mind, becoming even more pleased as she did so, sensing the feelings she had well hoped.

The Wizard turned suddenly to her, pulling her into an embrace. Without a word or warning, she kissed The High Queen fully, making clear her intentions. After the kiss, she ran her fingernail down between San'lr'in's breast, then slowly removed the gown away from it, yet only slightly so. Closing her eyes, San'lr'in’ made herself to focus only on the feeling of the moment.

"I love the way your body responds to me, my San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. I can barely wait for the eve's moments."

The Wizard gently pinched San'lr'in's breast, then bent and kissed and teased it for a moment with her tongue, greatly pleased in hearing San'lr'in's quiet moans of desire.

San'lr'in’ took the Wizard's hand into her own and smiled at her, “You are as eager as a young girl, Wizard. But we shouldn't rush the moment."

"You are correct, my curious one. I sensed into your thoughts. Are you aware of this?"

San'lr'in’ was startled at the naïveté of the question, but was pleased that she had prepared her own thoughts for such, “And what did you find, Wizard?"

The Wizard placed her hand on San'lr'in's breast again, holding it tightly, then kissed her neck, “That you want to learn more about me, and that you desire me. You really think me beautiful, High Queen?"

San'lr'in’ played into the moment, running her finger across the Wizard's lips, “Who could not, Wizard? In truth, you are beautiful."

"You are the first of my cravings to say as such."

"Did Jre'nec'rn’ not think you beautiful?"

San'lr'in’ became intrigued at the Wizard's response to her question, as she saw the Wizard's temper flare at the thought, “That idiot? No. Of course not. She was blinded in her lust of others."

She watched as the Wizard struggled to control her temper. “I was unaware that you knew of this story. What have you been told in this regard?"

San'lr'in’ saw no reason to hide The Realm's tale of such, and told her the full story as she had been told. She watched, again curious as to the Wizard's reaction, but saw that the Wizard merely listened with full attention.

When she had completed telling the story, she said, “This is the tale told to Me by a long-line of storytellers."

San'lr'in’ was slightly startled to see that the tale had little effect on the Wizard, “An interesting account. And somewhat true in its interpretation, but Jre'nec'rn’ wasn't solely bound to one lover. She took many, but never me. She married me only for my titles and holdings."

"Married? I know not this term. Is it a term from your era?"

"Marriage? You know this not? How very odd. Marriage is a union. Let me see ... ah ... I think you call it a partnership."

"A union, or partnership. Some call it a companionship."

She laughed slightly, “And Jre'nec'rn’ wasn't as strong as in this tale. It took her and three wizards to place me in my long sleep. Even then, they didn't manage it very well, did they? But are you not hungry, High Queen? Our food awaits."

As she led San'lr'in’ to the table, The High Queen asked, “You sent me an image of other Realms, Wizard. Would I offend you if I asked you to tell me more of these realms, and your vast knowledge of them?"

The Wizard helped San'lr'in’ to sit, then bent over and kissed her. The kiss was deeply passionate, “I love to kiss you, my red-haired one. And I can feel that you also like my kisses. I think I have chosen well in you.” She held San'lr'in's chin in her hand, and moved close once again. As she kissed her, she moved her hand underneath the gown, slowly but aggressively exploring San'lr'in's breast. The High Queen didn't desire the feeling, but as she had to allow, her body responded fully.

The Wizard kissed her on her neck, then behind her ear, and then finally rose, “You are as dessert to me, my San'lr'in'thel'ineln'."

"Dessert?"

"This is quite entertaining, High Queen. I knew not that such words don't exist in this era. Dessert. The ending course. The sweets. The best course of all."

"Ah. Sweets. Of course. Then I am pleased, Wizard."

The Wizard described The Realms that she had allowed San'lr'in’ to view, enjoying the moment to speak with another. The High Queen saw that the Wizard was indeed lonely, and quite eager for company, even if she did have only one desire on her mind. Throughout the eve, they lingered slowly over their meal as the Wizard touched and fondled every enticing available part of San'lr'in'.

Throughout the extended eve, they spoke together of many things, and San'lr'in’ found herself surprised in her growing interest in this great Wizard.

She gazed into her eyes, “You know, Wizard, that you are not as I expected."

The Wizard smiled, fully pleased, “Tell me more, my intelligent one.” She ran her fingers across San'lr'in's brows, then her breasts.

"The Realm thinks you merely as evil, but you are a great, great mind. I find your thinking most compelling, and your beauty is well beyond all the stories of such. Was such beauty as yours as normal in your era, or was Jre'nec'rn’ as stupid as this?"

The Wizard laughed fully, enjoying the moment with her new soon-to-be lover. The eve was a deeply felt one for both of them, and while the Wizard continued her forward physical explorations in anticipation of their coming together, San'lr'in’ became confused as she found herself truly enjoying the Wizard's company. She had found few others in The Realm that truly understood the burdens of the powers they held, but here, sitting next to her, was the greatest power of them all, and a most knowing and perhaps loving one. And one she was beginning to truly desire.

San'lr'in’ thought the physical moment together inevitable and braced herself for such, but just as the Wizard was beginning to provide even more urgent desirous touches and physical demands, the Wizard's advisor entered the room and bowed before her.

"Wizard. I apologize for this interruption."

The Wizard slapped her as she turned to her. She had been kissing and fully exploring her desired lover and was angered at the interruption.

The advisor picked herself up off the floor, “Wizard.” She bowed her head deeply.

Her response was an angry hiss, “What is it?"

"For your ears only, Wizard. It is most urgent."

The Wizard turned to San'lr'in', trying to regain the moment, “I will only be a moment, and then we can begin where we were rudely interrupted."

She turned and left the room with the advisor. San'lr'in’ sensed lightly into the Wizard's mind as she left the room, and also into that of the advisor's, curious as to the urgency. She smiled to herself as she gained the advisor's thoughts.

After a few moments, her attendant came to her, “High Queen."

"Rise and tell Me, Attendant."

"The Most Honored Wizard begs your forgiveness, High Queen, but she has been called to a most urgent need. She regrets that she will not be able to spend the eve with you."

If the attendant had known The High Queen well, she would have seen a sparkle in The High Queen's eyes.

* * * *

"We begin the battle from here."

Erthrn bowed her head slightly, “I will follow your lead, Force Leader of The High Queen. Give the signal, and we will begin with all our might."

Ann'wn looked at Sume', “You know what you must do, High Wizard Sorcerer?"

"Of course. Have we not gone over this enough?"

Ann'wn bowed her head, then turned to Sele', looking down at her, “And you, Future Supreme Sovereign?"

Sele’ bowed her head in return and clasped her tiny fist to her heart, “Yes, Force Leader. I am prepared."

"Good.” Then she looked to Sle'nel', “Elfin Queen? Are you prepared?"

She bowed her head, “I have received a report from R'lodin'lindor’ and the returned Elves. All are prepared."

Ann'wn then looked at the Force Leader of the Mungardies, “Once the command is given to begin the battle, you and your forces will be solely on your own. Hold tight to your ranks, as you cannot fall."

The Mungardies Force Leader bowed her head deeply, “We will hold our ranks. Fear this not, Force Leader for The High Queen. We know our prior stories well, and we cannot allow this Wizard to gain any of The Realm."

Ann'wn looked up at the sky, seeing the ravens. Now that they were fully in the Southern Hemisphere, the ravens had been greater in number, even given that many were now fighting against them. She looked back to her forces, “The Private Guard will wait until after the first turn of the battle, while the Black Guard will do as they ever do, slipping behind the lines."

She sighed, wishing her Queen was with her. She examined Sle'nel’ for a moment, wondering how she could act as normal given where her lover was. She sighed again, “We begin at the signal. I wish you well.” She gave great effort to muster what motivation she could for her forces, “For The Realm. For The High Queen!"

They all moved their fist firmly to their heart, “For The High Queen!"

"It is a good turn to save The Realm."

Ann'wn nodded, watching a few of the Elfin flying horses fly overhead, “Indeed, Queen Erthrn. And may we all live to tell the battle's tales."

* * * *

San'lr'in’ saw the Wizard come to her. It had been more than a full turn since she had seen the Wizard, and she knew the moments were now moving against her and her forces. She was becoming urgent in her need to move her plan forward. She got up and held out her hands to her, “Wizard. Finally, you return."

The Wizard moved desirously into San'lr'in', embracing her tightly and kissing her fully, “I want you now, but I fear that I must tend to my duties."

"Perhaps this eve, then?"

The Wizard was pleased in The High Queen's desire, sensing that it was indeed truth, “When I regain The Realm, we will have many more moments, my red-haired one. In the meanwhile, I am truly pleased in you."

San'lr'in’ moved the Wizard's hand to her breast, urging her forward in the plan, “Surely your forces can tend to these affairs without you for a moment."

The Wizard bent down slightly, removed The High Queen's gown away from her breast, and touched the more inviting part, while moaning her own pleasure, “I cannot come this eve, High Queen, but I vow that I will come upon the next turn."

San'lr'in’ covered her breast, “May I have your leave to explore My new surroundings, Wizard?"

The Wizard kissed The High Queen's neck, then moved to her mouth, kissing her again fully, while her hands explored San'lr'in's breasts. Gasping, wanting more, she moved slightly away, “Of course. Just promise me that you will stay inside the Keep until after I tend to my affairs."

San'lr'in’ looked confused, “Promise? What is this meaning?"

The Wizard laughed, “How very humorous. Promise. Pledge. Give your honor."

She bowed her head, understanding, “Ah. You have My vow."

The Wizard leered at her, “And vow that you will be as eager upon my return."

San'lr'in’ raised an eyebrow and gave a knowing smile, “You will have to determine this for yourself, Wizard, but I vow that I will be waiting for you, and fully so."

The Wizard leered again. She kissed her upon her neck once more, “I find your neck overly compelling, High Queen. I cannot wait for our moments together."

* * * *

"I can hear the battle."

Sam listened, then looked at U'Aine, “Which direction?"

U'Aine pointed, “There. You can see the battle's smoke above the tree line."

Sam nodded, “I see it. We must find Ann'wn."

"We go there now."

U'Aine turned back to the Woden Forces, “From this moment on, be well prepared for the enemy.” She looked at Sam then held out her hand, “I must find our High Queen, Highest. Please tend well to yourself in my absence."

Sam took her hand and nodded, “And you as well, Master. I would like to continue where we left off, in Woden."

For the first moment in U'Aine's life, she worried over whether she would live to return to this woman she had fallen in love with, “Highest ... I find myself unable to—"

Sam placed her finger to U'Aine's lips, “I know, Master. You need not say this. I feel the same. You will remain in my thoughts. Go and find my sister, for The Realm, Master."

U'Aine nodded, gathering all her Master training firmly to her, trying to force herself into a more distanced stance, as would be needed from her, “I will take you to Ann'wn, and will leave from there."

* * * *

The warrior had a seldom-seen frantic look upon her face, “Force Leader. They continue to come at us. They are never-ending in their numbers, and we are running low on arrows."

Ann'wn looked around at the battle scene, knowing that they had killed as many as possible without yet engaging in the hand-to-hand combat, “It is the moment. Take up the swords and spears. Move in quickly, and move through the lines—as planned, with the horses at full speed.” She turned toward Erthrn, “We will begin the third phase of the attack when I see that your forces have moved through the front lines. Remember to remain away from the east side of the Keep."

Erthrn bowed her head, “It shall be done."

"Force Leader. We cannot hold them any longer."

She turned to the voice, seeing another of her battle-weary leaders. She was surprised to see this one so defeated looking, “Fall back as the Private Guard move in. They are fresh and will hold them until the next phase."

Mil'der'in stood next to Ann'wn, “It is the moment for Sume’ to begin."

Ann'wn didn't move her eyes from the battlefield, “Tell her to begin after the sword fighting begins. Tell her to then begin with all her might. And Sele’ also. We need to gain entrance into the Keep."

"I can no longer see Sle'nel'."

Ann'wn had lost sight of her a half-turn ago, and wasn't pleased, “Our only hope in this regard is that the Warrior Woman of Woden is with her."

"When will the Elves and the flying horses arrive?"

"They have already arrived, long prior and now just wait for their moment. Sle'nel’ prepared the Elves well. They know the plan."

Mil'der'in looked to her and placed her hand on Ann'wn's shoulder, “Any word from The High Queen?"

Ann'wn merely shook her head.

"Force leader. What, or who are these that our forces now fight against?"

She turned to look at her lover, “I know not, Healer, but The High Queen told us that they have come through the OuterRealm. They don't fight well, but there seem to be unending numbers of them."

The Healer looked at the multitudes upon the battlefield, “How are we to halt that which is unending in their numbers?"

"Let us trust that The High Queen knows well what she does."

The Healer nodded in full trust, “She does. Of this I know. I understand it not, but I know fully she will achieve her goal."

* * * *

"I have the Wizard's permission to explore her Keep."

The guard didn't move, “I am sorry, High Queen. I act on orders."

The High Queen made a slight movement with her hand, casting a sleeping spell onto the guard, “Of course, Guard. I understand."

She lowered the guard to a nearby chair, then entered the forbidden passage quietly, trying to avoid any other guard. She saw nothing but darkness as she peeked in through the door. Waiting for a moment for her eyes to adjust to the dim light, she listened carefully to the muffled noises ahead of her. Moving silently but quickly down the long, dark hallway, she felt relief that no guards were outside any of the many doors she passed, except for one. As she saw the guard, she halted, hoping that this would be the door she sought. The guard seemed quite bored, but avoiding any further risk, she used the sleeping spell again. As the guard slumped to the floor, she cracked the guarded door open.

She sighed in frustration as she saw yet another dark hallway. She entered it, moving quickly down toward the bright light and the noise. She listened, smiling briefly as she recognized the sounds. As she neared the light, she kept her distance, but saw what she expected to see.

The portal. Finally.

She watched for a moment as the Wizard's forces entered from the OuterRealm into this realm, through what seemed no more than a shining archway. The arch seemed to be standing on its own as the Wizard's legions filed from it in a steady stream, directly out to the outside through the Keep's thick wall. She looked around carefully, her eyes narrowing.

Where is it? Where is the sphere?

She began to feel herself panic, knowing the urgency of halting these forces, but knowing that she hadn't yet found the key to lock this portal against them. She grew angry with herself, having assumed that the sphere would be in the same location. Her desperation grew, especially now in seeing the great numbers her forces were having to battle.

She closed her eyes for a moment and moved lightly into her meditations, trying to sense the energy's location.

It is not in this room. Her frustrations were becoming uncontrollable, well knowing that she needed to complete the task soon or face a greater risk of detection upon each moment, and then, failure for The Realm.

She tried again, then felt it, Of course! It is beneath this room.

She turned quickly and retraced her steps, removing all the evidence of her presence as she went.

Re-entering the first hallway, she sensed the air about her, seeking cooler air, knowing that such would indicate a passage to the lower levels. She walked the long hallway slowly, sensing no change. Then, as she neared the doorway from which she had first entered, she felt it.

Finally. Cooler air.

She was surprised in seeing that it wasn't another doorway, but a stairway down that had been hidden just slightly to the side, yet behind of the door she had first entered. Beginning the stairway, she moved steadily down into the hollows of the Wizard's great Keep, avoiding the use of any light. She moved her hand lightly along the wall to help guide her, feeling nothing but a cool slimy substance upon it.

The further down the circular stairway she went, the darker and cooler it became. She brought forward a spell, bringing a small ball of light to her, now having no choice but to do as such. As the spiral staircase ended, she saw a crossroads of four separate paths in front of her. She bent down and examined the dirt paths, then rose, examining the right one. She received no signs from the path of its destination. She went down it a ways, then halted.

She heard moaning, guessing the sounds to be from prisoners in their cells. She returned to the crossroads and chose the next path. Hearing voices, she chanted another spell to remove the ball of light from her. She had brought no weapons with her, not wanting them on her in case she was caught. She moved slowly down toward the noise, listening as she went.

"...glad I am not in that battle..."

"...nothing but ... coward...."

"I AM NO COWARD! Take ... back ... kill you!"

She heard the sound of swords clashing against each other, then moved quickly to the edge of the room. Once there, she made certain to stand against the unlit wall so as to remain away from the shadows. She was grateful for the guards’ inattention to their duty, hoping there were only the two of them. As the two guards fought each other, she cast a sleeping spell upon them, as she had done to the other guards. As they fell quietly to the dirt floor, she stepped over them to study the lock upon the closed door. After a brief moment, she moved her hand slightly, unlocking it. She entered inside, brought the small ball of light to her once more, then anxiously examined the room. Her frantic eyes came to rest on the only item in the room.

Thank the Mothers.

She closed her eyes for a moment, sensing for the portal. After a moment, she sensed it directly above her, but far so.

She was stunned, This sphere has greater power than I thought to be so overly far removed from the portal.

Moving to the middle of the otherwise empty room, she examined the item she had sought. A large round crystal ball had been carefully set onto a chest-high pedestal. Feeling its power call to her, she fought the urge to touch it, to become one with it. Yet, even as she fought against its great powers, she felt deep awe in the moment.

The Crystal Sphere of the OuterRealm. After all these eons.

In truth, until just a moon prior, she hadn't believed the sphere yet existed in The Realm, believing she would have felt its presence. She could feel the energy it was both using and emitting, knowing fully that it was acting as the door between this realm and the OuterRealm. She had heard many legends of this crystal ball in the tales of the storytellers, tales of immense powers well prior to The High Queens’ line, but knew that it no longer existed in her known realm. She stood staring at it in wonder, now seeing that it indeed did exist, and in her known realm.

How do I halt it from its powers?

She allowed herself a moment to work through her plan, wishing that all the prior High Queens could assist her.

Crack it.

Her heart jumped at the unexpected sound that rang in her mind. She whispered, “How are you here, Teacher?"

Someone needs to tend to you, Highness, and I have more final moments. After you shared your concerns with me, I knew you might need my assistance, so a few of the other Elfin Spirits gave me their final moments. But enough of this. In my era, I studied the Wizard of the Ravens carefully, always wondering what we would do should she return within our lifespans. But I now see that there is little reason for my presence, as I should have known that you would take good care of our realm.

The High Queen could barely believe that Is'en'nel's spirit was yet with her, and in this room, “But how—?"

Quickly, Student. You have few moments.

"I will have to make it look like the guards did as such."

Yes, during their swordplay.

"Can this sphere not be repaired, if it is only cracked?"

We cannot break it. This is all I know. If we break it fully, the OuterRealm gains a fully opened entrance into our Realm that cannot be sealed. If we crack it, we can never again enter the OuterRealm, but it also then cannot come into our Realm.

The High Queen shivered at the thought of what she had been about to do, “Then it is most certain a good moment that you are here, as I would have broken it.” She went quickly back to the guards and removed one of their swords, “Let us hope this works, Teacher."

Indeed, High Queen.

She raised the sword, then brought it firmly down upon the crystal ball. She raised an eyebrow when she saw that it had no effect, surprised.

Quickly. Again. Your moments are passing.

She brought the sword fully down upon the crystal ball again, closing her eyes at the moment of impact. Her heart was beating uncontrollably, hoping she hadn't fully broken the ball. She heard the impact, then winced.

You did it! Now hurry. Move the guards.

Amazed, The High Queen looked at the crystal ball and saw a great crack in it. She heard her Teacher's words, then moved quickly to the outer hallway and dragged in the guards, placing them strategically. She backed out of the room, removing her sorcery signs as she did so, and removing footsteps and other physical signs from the dirt floor.

She looked down the hallway, then began her exit. As she came to the crossroads, she halted.

Why do you halt?

"The prisoners."

You cannot worry over them. You will do no one any good if you cannot complete your mission.

"You know of it?"

Move, Student!

The High Queen ran quickly up the stairs. As she reached the main floor, she turned back to the guard onto which she had first placed her sleeping spell. She stood in front of the guard, slowed down her own breathing and heart, then woke her.

Acting like no moments had passed, she responded to the guard's prior statement, “Of course, Guard. I understand."

The guard awoke, but looked confused. She shook her head, then said, “Thank you, High Queen."

As The High Queen moved away from the door, she waived her hand slightly, making the guard to forget the moment. She then entered her room, finding her attendant yet asleep from the spell she had given to her. She undid her spell, waived her hand, dismissing the attendant's memory of the moment.

She picked up their conversation as if in the middle of it, “...food in the Valley."

The attendant shook her head, “Huh? Oh, yes, High Queen."

Your garments, High Queen. They are dirtied from the dirt floors.

She felt a sudden sense of panic, then calmed herself, Thank you.

Thinking quickly, she rose, “I need a short nap, Attendant. My heart needs rest if I am to entertain the Wizard this eve.” She waived her hand lightly, making the attendant to once again fall asleep, but only lightly, knowing that the Wizard would need to be able to wake her. She got into the bed and arranged the covers over her gown.

Quickly. She comes. But you are yet in your gown.

"Let us hope that I can argue my case well, Teacher."

She laid her head down on the pillow and willed her heart to slow down to a sleeping pace. She removed all her thoughts from sensing, placing in a pleasant dream of the Wizard instead. She gave a small spell of pleasant aromas in hopes of masking the musky scent from the dungeon she had taken on, then gave another spell to hide the scent of the spells. She then allowed herself to move into her third meditation as she waited for the Wizard.

Sweet visions, Student.

She smiled lightly, as in a dream, silently thanking her teacher.

Suddenly, the Wizard stormed into the room, glancing about, searching for The High Queen. As she looked around the room, she became confused in the scene. All looked in unanticipated order. She saw the attendant, and shook her, “Attendant. Get up! You have fallen asleep. Tell me. Has The High Queen been here all the moments?"

The attendant fell to her knees, bowing to the Wizard, “Yes, Most Honored Wizard. She was tired. She was going to explore the Keep, but decided against it. She said that her heart needed to rest prior to being with you for the eve. She has been wounded most recently, Wizard, in her heart, and wanted to be fully rested for you."

The Wizard went quickly over to the bed and stood, studying her guest carefully. She was fully angry, well beyond control, but could sense only pleasant thoughts from her, and grew even more confused. San'lr'in’ stirred, then acted as if she were waking.

She opened her eyes, then startled, “Wizard. It is you. Have you come already? But I am hardly prepared. You should have sent a messenger, and I would have been made fresh for you."

The Wizard sensed into San'lr'in's heart, yet confused, “Your heart is still weakened from my stupid attempt on your life?"

San'lr'in’ reached up to the Wizard's neck and brought her to her, kissing her, “Hmmm ... Wizard. Would you care to join me?"

The Wizard stood back up, smiling, somewhat softened, beginning to believe that her visitor had not caused the sphere's breaking, “I cannot, sweet desirous one. Something of great urgency has occurred that needs my attention, but I will return, and gladly so, to your bed. But is your heart still weak?"

San'lr'in’ placed her hand to her heart, acting the role, “Somewhat, My Wizard. I only nap so as to be well rested for you. It yet makes me tire over easily."

The Wizard examined San'lr'in's thoughts once again, sensing only truth, desire and a weakness of the heart. She sighed, now fully believing that the guards’ carelessness had cracked her beloved crystal ball, instead of San'lr'in'. Her heart softened to her soon-to-be lover, “Allow me to repair your heart, the desire of my own heart."

San'lr'in’ quickly grabbed the Wizard's hand, “No, My Wizard. I cannot accept such a gift as this. You cannot be weakened in this moment. I am fine, and given the gracious rest you allow of Me, I will recover most quickly. In truth, My Wizard, you will not see any weakness when our moments together finally arrive. Kiss Me instead, My Wizard."

San'lr'in’ pulled the willing Wizard down to her, making her to lay upon her. The Wizard began to kiss her, but was well pleased when her High Queen kissed her fully, in return. San'lr'in’ used all the experience she had gained from her many lovers, exploring fully the Wizard's mouth, holding her head tightly to her with one hand placed at the back of her head, and moving her other hand between them, down to the Wizard's greatest need.

She continued to kiss the Wizard, dissolving her need to leave. The Wizard hesitated briefly, then moved fully into the moment, beginning to explore San'lr'in's body, wanting more.

As suddenly, San'lr'in’ halted the moment, acting somewhat upset. She knew she couldn't allow the Wizard to see her dirtied gown, “Leave now, so that you can come back fully to Me when the moments are yours. I want no blame for whatever takes you from this moment."

The Wizard was gasping in her need of the moment, yet rose, “You are correct. I will return in a short while. I promise that our moments will occur soon, my desirous one. It is I who am to blame for this most inopportune moment.” She straightened her garments, then smiled at San'lr'in', “I knew better than to think you a traitor, High Queen. I now know fully that you have come willingly to me."

San'lr'in’ raised an eyebrow, “Traitor? Me? Yet, I will desire to remain no longer if you and I cannot have more moments, Wizard. I came not so as to enjoy your Keep."

The Wizard looked outside the window, “I will return as the sun's set occurs. In truth, it will be difficult for me to wait until then, but I must attend to another affair. Until then, my desirous one."

San'lr'in’ smiled knowingly at her, “Until then. I will be waiting for you, fully."

* * * *

"Force Leader. Their forces seem to be diminishing. Their ranks are not being re-supplied, as they were prior."

Ann'wn continued to study the bloody battlefield, “Yes. I have also seen this."

Mil'der'in spoke softly to her after the guard departed, “Our High Queen did as such?"

"I cannot imagine that the OuterRealm would run out of numbers, so it must be that our High Queen has managed to halt their passage, although I cannot guess how she has managed as such."

Another voice provided the answer, “Per her usual, she commands the impossible."

Ann'wn startled at the voice, unaware of The Healer's presence, “You are here."

The Healer took her hand, “I came to report that our field services have been placed directly north of here. Please direct all the wounded to the new location."

Ann'wn squeezed her hand lightly, “Of course, Healer. Take care of yourself. We have great need of you."

"And I, you, Lover. But you look tired."

"If their numbers decrease not soon, we will lose this battle."

One of her commanders came to her, “Force Leader. It is The Highest from Woden. She has arrived, and with a few reinforcements of her own."

"And with the Master?"

"She arrived with them, then immediately left, saying she was going to find The High Queen."

Sam walked up as Ann'wn heard her commander's words, “Find The High Queen? But she is inside the Keep."

Sam nodded, “Indeed, Force Leader. This knowledge seems not to but halt a Master, however. She is already departed on her mission."

Ann'wn held out her arm in greeting to Sam, “Highest. It is good you come. We have great need of your forces, no matter your numbers."

"And I now have powers that I can use against all these forces.” She looked out toward the battlefield, “But who, or what are these forces, Force Leader? These cannot be of The Realm. They appear to be half-dead."

"They are from the OuterRealm, somewhere."

"Sle'nel'?"

Ann'wn shrugged, “I know not where she is."

Sam looked again out onto the battlefield, “Where do you have greatest need of us?"

Ann'wn waved her hand across the entire battlefield, feeling defeated, “Out there."

Keddi was standing to one side, then came up, “With your permission, Highest?"

Sam nodded to her.

"I would like to take our forces to the center. It seems to be the greatest need at the moment."

"Go then.” She turned back to Ann'wn, “U'Aine has told us that my sister is in the Keep."

Ann'wn nodded, “She is."

"How was this possible?"

"The moments are most amazing, Highest. Since we have no moments now to discuss them, let us hope that we live to share the tales of this most interesting of battles."

"My daughter?"

Ann'wn looked slightly to her right, far across the battlefield, searching for her. She pointed, “There. With Sume'. What they do is but a guess to me, but it is sorcery most grand, as Sume’ is now the High Wizard Sorcerer.” She kept her eyes over to their part of the battlefield, then jerked, “Look. A cloud is growing, over their heads."

Sam shook her head, “Sele’ and Sume'. These tales will be most interesting. But I am off, Force Leader, to do what damage I am allowed."

* * * *

Sele’ walked with her Aunt Sume', holding her hand, “Where do we head, Aunt High Wizard Sorcerer?"

Sume’ pointed, “There. It seems to be well unused by the fighting forces."

As they arrived, Sume’ looked around, wondering how she ever got to this moment.

Sele’ sensed her thoughts, “You were destined for this moment, Aunt Sume'."

Sume’ looked down at her beloved young one, “Perhaps, Young One, but your sensing into my thoughts is not welcomed. But come, we have much to do. See that wall?"

Sele’ nodded, “The East Wall, as Ann'wn said?"

Sume’ also nodded, “Exactly, Future Supreme Sovereign. That is one of our tasks. We must break down this wall and wreak as much havoc within the Keep's compound as we can manage. Once we break the wall, our forces will be able to defeat the Keep. Then we must remove the magic that has been given to protect the Keep."

"I can do locusts. Thousands and thousands of them."

She shivered at the thought, “No. What else?"

"Rocks."

"Hmmm ... perhaps. What else?"

"Is there water nearby?"

Sume’ looked around the landscape, then pointed, “There. A river."

Sele’ smiled up at her, “A flood, with the river rocks."

"Will the rocks mind?"

Sele’ shook her head, “They enjoy the adventure, but I will try to avoid any trees from being flooded out. They will not appreciate this unless they volunteer first, and I have not asked them."

Sume’ was surprised, “You learned much from the Women in the Trees."

Sele’ nodded, bringing the spell forward in her mind, “I knew not that the trees could be angered in this regard."

"Enough. We must tend to our duty. I will bring in a great storm, and you will turn the river into a flood. Then we will both enlist the rocks’ cooperation in hopes that they like to butt up against their relatives, the walls."

"They do. I have spoken to them of this, and they think it is most entertaining."

* * * *

"Elfin Queen?"

Sle'nel’ turned, seeing the Elfin Force Leader of the few forces they had, “You have safely arrived, then?"

"We are all here, Elfin Queen, and await your commands."

"You must not enlist greatly in this battle but you do have a few main targets that we must try to rid The Realm of.” She pointed, “There. See the outlook?"

She nodded, “This we can accomplish. And the others?"

Sle'nel’ pointed to another location on the Keep, “We must take out the main gate."

She nodded again, “This also can be accomplished. Any others?"

She looked at her Force Leader, “Only one other, but it is not as easy as these. We must engage against the moat."

The Elfin Force Leader raised an eyebrow, “This is a challenge, then, Elfin Queen, but we will manage. Destroyed or filled?"

"Flooded. There are three main feeders.” She pointed again, “See? There are the feeder-rivers, and the damns that control them. And there are three main drains.” She pointed, “These also must be destroyed. But you must remain clear of the moat as there are most unusual creatures that live within it."

The Elfin Force Leader studied the targets, “Any particular order?"

"The outlook tower must be destroyed first. It is then up to you. How do our great flying horses fare against the ravens."

"Only one further loss since they discovered the teaming approach. All the ravens have now returned to the Southern Hemisphere, Highness, so our efforts are more concentrated. And The High Queen's High Council's forces have been most successful. The ravens’ numbers have been greatly reduced. Will you remain here, Elfin Queen?"

"No, Force Leader. You have your mission, and you are now in-charge. I have other duties to which I must attend."

"Please mind to your safety, Elfin Queen. We have great need of you in our new beginning."

"And mind yourselves to safety, Force Leader. You all carry our future within you."

She began to turn so as to move to her next mission, when she heard another voice, “Second."

She turned back, “Meera? Why are you here?"

"I have been assigned to guard you."

"During such a battle as this? How ridiculous. Have you nothing better to do?"

"It was The High Queen's command."

Sle'nel’ studied her friend for a moment, then smiled, “Then come quickly, as we have much to do."

"What is our mission, Second?"

"OUR mission, Meera? So now it is OUR mission? Then so it is. Our mission is to find the Wizard's cloak."

She looked to the Keep, having developed a deep sense of foreboding, “In there, Second?"

She lowered her eyebrows, “Did you expect us to just call to it, and it would come?"

Meera snickered, “No, Second. Nothing we do could be as easy as this. Where do we begin?"

"As soon as Sume’ and Sele’ open the wall, we will enter. From there, let us hope that my staff can sense it. The Realm has great need of this cloak. And I believe that The High Queen will have great need of this cloak in the next moments."

"How do you know of this cloak, Second?"

Sle'nel’ glanced at her for a moment, her eyes twinkling, “A little birdie told me.” Then, as she saw the wall falling, she began to run toward the Keep.

* * * *

Sume’ and Sele’ were yet working on their part of the wall, “Are you going to use your crystal ball, Aunt High Wizard Sorcerer?"

Sume’ examined the damage they had already done to the wall, displeased, “It would appear that we must do so, Young One, as our prior spells have not performed to our need."

She pulled it out of her cloak, holding it out in one of her hands. She waved her other hand over it and began to chant a spell. Sele’ watched, spellbound, at the image that was emerging within the crystal.

"Is this what you will cast, Aunt High Wizard Sorcerer?"

She nodded, “Watch."

"How did you come to this idea, Aunt Sorcerer?"

"You gave me the idea, Young One."

"Me, Aunt High Wizard Sorcerer? How?"

"You said you could do locusts."

Sele’ looked into the Crystal Ball, shaking her head, “I know not these types of locusts, Aunt High Queen."

"Now you will. Watch."

Sume’ moved her hand slowly back and forth over the Crystal Ball, chanting as she did so. After a few moments, Sele’ clapped her hands as a great swarm of locusts emerged from the Crystal Ball and headed directly for the wall.

"What do you call them, Aunt?"

"Wall-eating locusts.” Sume’ looked down at her and smiled, “Is this not a good title for them?"

They both watched, well pleased in the moment as they saw the locusts go to the wall and begin to eat it. Slowly, the wall disappeared as the gigantic swarm fulfilled their hunger.

As they completed their task, Sume’ frowned, “And here is the downside, Young One."

Sele’ looked confused, “Downside, Aunt?"

"Indeed. We have let these creatures loose in The Realm. Now we must find a way to make them disappear, or they will consume every building within The Realm."

Sele’ smiled, thinking the moment overly humorous, “This is what my teachers try to teach me, Aunt, that there are consequences to the spells of sorcery."

Sume’ didn't look pleased, “Yes. Well, I have not had the opportunity to be trained, Young One. I am making this up as I go. Now, help me."

* * * *

Erthrn watched as Sume’ and Sele's spells began to break the first portion of the wall. She turned to her forces, “It is the moment, Force Leader. Let loose the boulders, then begin the arrows, once again."

"Yes, Queen Erthrn. Are the others also beginning their attack upon the Keep?"

"They are. It has begun. In half a turn, there will be no wall around this side of the Keep, should luck be with us."

The Warrior Woman of the Sword Force Leader raised her arm to her forces, then lowered it. The planned ruse had worked—Sle'nel’ had supplied a spell of displacement, making it seem to the Wizard that The Realm's forces had collected boulders on a different side of the Keep. It was on that side that the Wizard's forces had built up the Keep's wall in preparation of the boulders being let loose upon them.

As the force leader had given the signal, her forces nodded, then cut the ropes. Within a brief moment, hundreds of boulders hurtled down the small hill, meeting directly with the wall. Erthrn watched the boulders, amazed that the plan was working. The boulders hit the wall one-by-one, gradually breaking its integrity until finally, the wall gave way. Then, as more boulders came, more of the wall gave.

"Send in the forces, Force Leader."

The Force Leader gave another hand command, and the Women of the Sword went charging into the Keep, readied for hand-to-hand combat. Queen Erthrn led them, raising her sword in a blood-curdling yell, killing many in her wake, but taking serious injuries as she did so. As they entered into the Keep, they met even stronger and fresh defenses that had been waiting. As Queen Erthrn rode into the middle of the plaza, her Force Leader saw her go down, then could find her no more.

* * * *

"What angers you so, Wizard?"

She looked at her would-be lover, “Your forces. They have found a way to enter my Keep. What can you do to halt them?"

San'lr'in’ looked surprised, “Me? I am nothing but a traitor to them. Why do you not use your great powers?"

The Wizard paced about the room, thinking hurriedly of what she might do to halt The Realm's forces. She waived her hand in dismissal, “I will, of course. I just didn't wish to enter into this battle. It begins to look like both of us must."

Once again San'lr'in’ tried to look surprised, “Is this urgent? Are we in danger, Wizard?"

The Wizard examined her for a moment, distracted by The High Queen's beauty. While she was concerned over the battle, she felt no great anxiety over its outcome, fully knowing she would win, “No, not really. They are merely pests that are ruining my Keep, but it can be rebuilt, and they will be made to do the rebuilding. It needs some updating, at any rate. But for the moment I should be concentrating on you, my compelling one."

"You are not worried about them entering into your Keep?"

"No. My forces will be able to hold them. We yet have a few surprises prior to me needing to enter into the battle. Come to me. Entertain me. I have waited long for this moment."

San'lr'in’ saw the look in the Wizard's eyes, and knew it well. She knew she needed to fully compel the Wizard to her this moment, as the battle would soon draw the Wizard's powers into it. And The High Queen well knew that if the Wizard entered into the battle, The Realm would lose. She went slowly to the Wizard, returning the knowing glance to her, sounding most seductive, “You quite like your moments of danger, Wizard. I like this in you. You are indeed strong."

As San'lr'in’ approached her in a most alluring fashion, the Wizard grabbed her and brought her to her roughly and with great urgency. She kissed her, forcing herself onto San'lr'in', regardless of her desire. San'lr'in’ placed her hand on the Wizard's breast, “You have waited long for this moment, Wizard."

The Wizard moaned as San'lr'in’ forcefully squeezed her breast. Instead of answering the statement, the Wizard brought San'lr'in’ more violently to her, beginning to rip her garments away from her, “I need you. This moment. I can wait no longer."

"Wizard. Careful. You show your need overly. You will display your weakness should you continue."

The Wizard leered at her, then physically moved her to the rug on the ground. It was the moment San'lr'in’ had been waiting for, while yet hoping against it. She struggled to regain control of the moment, needing the Wizard to be the one receiving the advances. Slowly, she did as needed, laying on top of the Wizard, and touching her so as to tease her.

The Wizard was gasping her desire, “I need you, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. I have waited eons for this moment with you. Make me stronger through your touches."

San'lr'in’ raised an eyebrow and smiled knowingly at the Wizard, “Then prepare to accept the strongest power in all The Realm, Wizard."

So as to distract her fully from the ongoing battle, The High Queen began her aggressive physical advances onto the Wizard, while also beginning to chant a spell softly under her breath. She knew the moment would be difficult in many fashions, but also knew to remain alert to her red-stoned heart, and alert to the Wizard's moment, not allowing her any rest.

She moved the Wizard forward quickly in her need, holding her need to the highest edge possible so as to keep the Wizard's senses fully engaged. She monitored her own heart, avoiding any detection of it, as she continued to softly chant the spell. Even given the Wizard's urgent desire for the diversion, San'lr'in’ well knew that the Wizard might detect the deception at any moment, so remained fully on guard. She heard the Wizard gasp her need, but kept her mind focused to her task.

After a few moments, but far, far longer than The High Queen had desired, she finally sensed the Wizard fully consumed in her physical need. Making a silent wish of desperation, and saying her own farewell to The Realm, she chanted the spell's final words.

As she spoke the spell's last word and as she was finally allowing the Wizard her well desired physical release, the great Red Stone of Power moved out of her and entered quickly into The Wizard's heart. After all her planning and patient waiting, San'lr'in’ sensed the moment was successful and sighed a moment of relief, even as her own unbearable pain grew blazingly within her.

The Wizard's eyes widened in great horror at the painful realization of the moment, “What have you done to me?"

She was gasping her great pain, unable to breathe. Her hands flew to her chest, trying to hold back the now enormous pain that was consuming her body, “YOU HAVE BETRAYED ME!"

San'lr'in’ saw that the Wizard's eyes were frantic, and saw that the Wizard knew she was now being destroyed by the Red Stone, as was the plan. San'lr'in’ could do nothing but watch though, as her own pain began to destroy her own body. It was the risk she had chosen to take, knowing that to rid The Realm of the Wizard, she would have to place the Red Stone of Power into the Wizard's heart, while also knowing that to remove it from within herself would be certain death.

The Wizard struggled to fight back against The High Queen, but as she did, the pain took over and made her to fall back to the ground. She knew the Red Stone was killing her, but was gladdened to see that her traitor lover was also dying, “You have also undone yourself, my traitor. My advisor was correct. All this was a trap."

San'lr'in’ sat upon the ground, trying to hold herself up, but losing to her pain. She laid herself down on the woven rug, trying to give her body what rest it might know prior to her death, as she kept watch on the dying Wizard.

As the Wizard became consumed by the Red Stone, her words were no more than mere whispers of her once great powers, “You hid this power well, but it will cost you your life. So I die knowing that at least you die with me."

San'lr'in’ had no strength in which to answer the Wizard, but struggled within herself to make certain that the Wizard died before her. She thought of Sle'nel’ for a moment, saddened in knowing that she would never see her again, but gladdened in knowing that she had saved The Realm.

As the Wizard closed her eyes, unable to halt the Red Stone devouring her body, San'lr'in’ crawled near her, focused on accomplishing her one final act for The Realm. Slowly, she crawled hand-over-hand toward the Wizard, wracked in her own pain, trying not to cry out, but groaning at every move. Her body was dying, but her mind was well motivated in the moment, urging her body forward.

As she reached the Wizard, she felt the Wizard's hand grab her. Her eyes opened and connected with The High Queen's, “We would have been the greatest and strongest rulers ever, High Queen."

In truth, Wizard, I am sorry to have done as such to you. Seer Roen was correct. You are much greater than we believed, and far less evil. I am sorry, Wizard.

She saw the Wizard look confused, then looked saddened as she slipped into unconsciousness.

Feeling the intense sadness of the moment, yet ignoring the tears that now fell unchecked on her cheeks, The High Queen took what strength she had remaining and began her chanting once more. It took every last effort she had to do as such, but forced herself to the task. Slowly, she removed the Red Stone of Power from the Wizard, finally killing her as she did so, removing all the powers that the Wizard had ever held.

For The Realm.

As the stone emerged, she placed it into her hand, placed it against her own chest, then lay back down upon the floor.

Remain with us, High Queen. Fight against this death you now move toward overly quickly.

No strength left.

You hold the Red Stone of Power. Use it.

Weak...

Student, OBEY ME!

* * * *

Ann'wn looked over the battlefield, “We have finally breached the Keep's wall. Have the Mungardies move in. Where are Queen Erthrn's forces?"

"Queen Erthrn's forces have already entered the Keep, Force Leader, but we can no longer find Queen Erthrn. We believe her to be dead."

Ann'wn sighed, holding her feelings away from her heart, “Then tell the Mungardies, Messenger."

Her messenger nodded, then ran to her assignment. Ann'wn watched her for a moment, wondering if the young messenger would live through the battle. She looked back out across the battlefield, seeing the vast carnage strewn before her, fully overwhelmed in its enormity. She closed her eyes for a moment, holding back the heaviness of her heart at the report of Erthrn's possible death.

"Their forces now dwindle quickly, Force Leader. It appears we have taken control of the battle."

She opened her eyes and turned to the voice. She examined Sam for a moment, seeing her wounded in many places, blood yet flowing from the wounds, “The Healer's camp is directly behind us, Highest. You have great need of her services."

Sam nodded wearily, “Any report from The High Queen?"

Ann'wn shook her head, “I know not who yet remains in The Realm."

Sam shook her head, “Not many. It was a terrible battle. Perhaps it is the moment to find out, Force Leader. But you also have great need of a Healer. Your arm is bleeding overly freely."

Ann'wn looked back out to the battlefield, not hearing or caring what Sam had said, “So much death."

* * * *

Once the Keep's walls were finally broken down, Sle'nel’ ran through them, trying to remain away from the main battle lines.

"Second. Wait."

She glanced back to Meera, “I cannot wait. Hurry, Meera. This battle is not our concern. We have a greater task. Be rid of this fight that seeks you."

Meera had begun to fight against a few of the Wizard's forces but saw that Sle'nel’ was running ahead of her, ignoring and evading the fights as possible, and quickly ending the fights in which she was forced to engage. Meera dispatched the three from the OuterRealm, then ran to catch up with Sle'nel'. She caught up with her as Sle'nel’ looked up at the main part of the Keep, “We must find a way inside this building, Meera, and quickly so. The High Queen's life now depends on us."

Meera examined the main part of the Keep, then saw a door, “We could try to enter through its doors, Second."

Sle'nel’ looked at her as if she were crazy, then nodded, “The obvious solution, yet I didn't think of such."

They reached the door and turned the handle, then were fully surprised as it opened, “Where now, Second?"

"I know not, Meera. Let us hope my staff will direct us. Quickly. Let us to the inside."

Unwittingly, they had entered into the main entrance of the Keep's center. Looking about them, Meera was surprised in its opulence, “I have never seen such as this. Where did she get all these beautiful items?"

Sle'nel’ was consulting her staff, but answered absentmindedly, “From the other Realms. Come. My staff tells me that we must enter into another section of this building. The Cloak is not in this room."

Meera followed dumbly, prepared to defend them, but wishing she knew where they were, or where they were going, “There is no one about. Where is everyone?"

Sle'nel’ shrugged, “Fighting, would be my guess. Let us just hope we don't run into the Wizard until after we gain this Cloak."

They sprinted down a long hallway, dispatching two unobservant guards in the process, but otherwise not encountering any forces of great concern, “Where do we head, Second?"

"We need to find the Wizard's bedroom. The Cloak will be there."

"Why is this cloak needed, Second?"

They came to a junction in the hallway, Sle'nel’ looking down both halls. As she began to sprint down the hall to the right, she answered back over her shoulder, “It is the Cloak of Life."

* * * *

After the Master left Sam with Ann'wn, she ran toward the Keep, generally ignoring the main part of the battle. She slipped from one fight to the next, avoiding detection by either side. She moved quickly, yet mostly unobserved, focused solely upon finding her High Queen.

She hid discreetly, as needed, finally gaining entry into the Keep through its main gates, even prior to its great walls being destroyed. By the moment she had arrived in the Keep's main courtyard, she had stolen and donned some garments that made her to look as if she were in the Wizard's forces.

She entered into the main building, moving quickly from room to room, wishing she knew the layout of the Wizard's Keep.

"Halt. You cannot enter there."

She turned to the voice, “The Wizard has sent for me. I have reports from the battle. It is urgent."

The guard blocked her passage, “I know you not. Who are you?"

"My Force Leader has died in battle. I am the only one left."

The guard was confused, “The Wizard didn't give any commands for such."

The Master shrugged and acted as if she was going to leave, “Fine. Then you tell her. It was a bad report anyway, and she would have beaten me for it. You tell her then. I would rather fight than face her anger."

"Wait. You may enter."

The Master turned back and began to enter into the room, then turned suddenly, killing the guard without warning. She opened the doors slightly, listening for any noise. Hearing none, she entered quietly into the room, searching for her High Queen. She searched the room thoroughly, then moved into the next room. Seeing nothing again, she moved on into the next, then stood in the door as she entered, seeing the one sight she had hoped against all hope to never see.

* * * *

"Tell all Force Leaders, to the Keep."

The messengers mounted, then left quickly to their task. Ann'wn looked out across the battlefield yet again, knowing that most of The High Queen's Private Guard were now laying out there, as well as most her own forces. She had lost sight of The High Queen's Black Guard long prior, wondering if Uthrn were yet alive. She felt herself shudder at the sounds of pain and dying that seemed to continually come from the battlefield. Never had she seen such utter devastation in battle as she had seen this battle. And now as she spoke to her messengers, she knew them to be replacements only, not recognizing any of them.

She mounted her horse, wondering if she would ever lift a sword again with her arm, then chose to ignore the pain.

"Force Leader. We must halt your bleeding."

She offered her left arm down toward the voice, “Come. We must find The High Queen."

The Healer looked at her for a moment, then grabbed her arm and swung herself up onto the horse. They rode quickly toward the Keep, avoiding the few lingering fights yet occurring. The Healer looked out across the battlefield as they rode, shocked in the sight.

"Look not, Healer. There is little you can do to improve the moment."

She whispered her horror, “There are thousands, Ann'wn."

Ann'wn nodded, thinking to herself, Thousands upon thousands.

* * * *

Sle'nel’ closed her eyes, trying to feel any signs of the cloak she now sought.

"Anything?"

She shook her head, becoming fully frustrated, “No. Yet I must find it, and soon."

Meera looked around, “This seems to be the wrong section of the building. This appears to be more for her attendants. Let us move down the hall more."

Sle'nel’ nodded, moving quickly. They turned down another hall, then saw two large doors, “Look. Perhaps this be it, Second."

Meera opened one of the doors quietly, listening for any sounds from within. Hearing none, she entered, “I think this might be end of your search, Second."

Sle'nel’ felt her staff twitch, and knew Meera was correct. She moved closer to the doors that entered into another smaller room, “This must be where her garments are stored."

"What does it look like, Second?"

Sle'nel’ felt her heart skip a beat as she looked up and saw it. She reached to the cloak and removed it slowly from its location, “Like this."

Meera looked over and saw it. She was stunned at its simpleness, “Are you certain, Second? That doesn't look like a special cloak in any regard."

Her hands shook as she touched it, feeling its immense power, “This is it, Meera."

She brought it to her, holding it carefully as it were a mere babe, “Now, Meera, we must find The High Queen, and quickly so."

* * * *

The Master moved quickly to her High Queen, kneeling at her side, checking for any signs of life.

"Is she yet alive, Master?"

She bent down, listening for a heartbeat, or breathing. She heard nothing. She then felt The High Queen's arm, feeling its coolness.

"No. She lives no more."

The Master hung her head, now knowing she had arrived overly late.

Ann'wn knelt next to her Queen, across from the Master. She examined her High Queen's face, seeing peace in its stillness. She didn't feel the tears that streamed freely from her eyes.

"Move aside. Both of you."

The Healer shoved the Master away forcefully, then knelt down next to her Queen. She felt her neck, checking for a pulse. She knew her Queen well enough to know that nothing would be so simple with her. She felt for many moments, becoming less hopeful with each passing moment, her own desperation growing more quickly than she had thought possible. Then, just as she was about to give up, she jumped as she felt a slight beat.

"What is it?"

Then she felt nothing, so waited again, wondering.

They whispered, “What is it, Healer?"

She was annoyed at the disturbance, “Shhhh! I cannot attend with you yelling in my ear."

Sume’ and Sele’ entered, “Does she live, Healer?"

Sume’ moved Ann'wn away, studying San'lr'in's body, “She removed the great Red Stone of Power away from her heart."

Sele’ was examining the Wizard, “Look. She killed the Wizard."

Sume’ knelt down and touched her finger lightly to the Red Stone, feeling its pulsing, “We need to place this back within her. Her heart is now inside it."

The Healer looked at her, “How could this be that she is not dead?"

"The Red Stone touches her, so she may yet live. She was directed to do as such, so as to live, if possible. We must do as Sume’ says, and then we are to place this cloak over her."

Everyone turned to the voice, stunned. Sle'nel’ walked over next to Sume'.

Sume’ looked up at her, then saw the cloak, “The Cloak of Life? Where did you find this? This has long been gone from The Realm."

Sele’ looked to her Aunt, “How do you know of such, Aunt High Wizard Sorcerer?"

Sume’ looked puzzled, “Hmmm ... I know not, Young One. I suppose the knowledge came as I became High Wizard Sorcerer.” She turned to Sle'nel', “But how did you know of it, Elf? And how did you know it was here?"

Sele’ answered, “Grandmother Is'en'nel’ is here. I can feel her presence."

The Healer examined the Red Stone without touching it, “Who is to return this to her?"

Sume’ shook her head, “I did prior, but it now contains all the powers of the Wizard, so would be even more dangerous than prior."

Sle'nel’ felt her desperation growing. She touched her hand to her Queen's cold cheek, “We must tend to this quickly. I cannot lose her. The Realm has great need of her."

Sele’ stood by her and placed her hand on her shoulder, “It is for me to do, Birth-Mother."

Sle'nel’ looked at her, surprised, “You?"

Sume’ shook her head, “You cannot know of this, Young One."

"Some things just come to me, Aunt High Wizard Sorcerer. And this came to me as soon as Grandmother Is'en'nel’ reminded me of where this memory was kept."

"You can return her heart to her?"

Sele’ nodded, “She is yet alive as long as the great Red Stone of Power touches her. Look at it. Can you not see its pulsing? It beats her life for her. Barely so, but it is now of life itself. It contains great powers that The Realm has long prior forgotten."

Sle'nel’ stood, “Can one mystic hold all these powers, and yet remain as she once was?"

Her mother answered, She will be changed, but The Realm has need of these powers, and is why this moment has come to be. Have your Birth-Daughter restore The High Queen's heart, Daughter. It is the moment.

Sle'nel’ touched Sele's yet small shoulder, “Do as you will, Birth-Daughter."

Sele’ moved her arms out in the form of a circle and began chanting her spells and powers to her, as she closed her eyes and moved her head upward. She then knelt next to The High Queen and placed one hand on the great Red Stone of Power, as she raised the other hand up toward the sky.

Suddenly, a huge bolt of red lightning struck the Red Stone of Power, then another. After five lightning strikes, all watched in shock as the stone slowly dissolved itself into The High Queen's chest. When it had disappeared to inside The High Queen, one last lightning bolt slammed into her chest, causing her body to jump at its power.

The Healer saw life return to her High Queen, and sighed, “She breathes. Unbelievably, she lives."

Sle'nel’ bent down next to San'lr'in', seeing her lover's skin regain its color. As she looked at her lover's face, she saw The High Queen staring up at her, yet with eyes that were so far removed from The Realm that a sudden chill raced down her spine.

"San'lr'in'? Can you hear me?"

San'lr'in's eyes stared into Sle'nel's, but no sign of recognition was given. And as suddenly, her eyes closed against to The Realm.

"Does she live?"

Sele’ nodded, “The High Queen lives."

The Healer moved close so as to try to help remove some of The High Queen's pain, but when she touched her forehead, a great jolt of power slammed into her, throwing her slightly away from The High Queen, “What happened?"

Sele’ looked at The Healer, then at her Aunt, then at her Birth-Mother, “When all her new powers are fully integrated into her, she will be returned to The Realm. Until then, the powers will not allow anyone to touch The High Queen."

"But how are we to transport her?"

Sle'nel’ placed the Cloak of Life over The High Queen, wrapping it firmly around her, “The Cloak of Life will protect The High Queen, and it will also allow us to move her."

The Healer protested, “She will need water. And food."

Sele’ shook her head, “The Cloak of Life will tend to her needs, Healer. She is no longer as we knew her. She will not require these things until she is allowed to be returned to The Realm. None of us has ever prior dealt with such powers, but now these powers are fully in control of her for the moment, until they have become her, and her, them."

Sume’ shook her head, “This sounds not good, Young One."

Sele’ shrugged, “Elfin Grandmother tells me that it is what must be. It is her destiny."

Ann'wn closed her eyes, then breathed in what felt like her first breath of life in many turns, “I thought we had lost her, along with all the others. At least she lives."

The Healer looked at Sle'nel', tears fully blurring her vision, “Thank the mothers."

Sle'nel’ touched The Healer's shoulder, “She lives.” But silently she wondered at Sele's comment, Her destiny?

* * * *

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