The High Queen woke early, seeing that the sun's rise hadn't yet occurred. She turned her head over to her sleeping lover, admiring and enjoying her expression that looked so content. Thinking for a moment on the conversation she had the prior eve with the long-prior teacher, she then recalled that the Dark Sorcerer now awaited her. She departed silently from their shelter as the sun's rise began to think of occurring, and went through her meditations, beginning to return her powers fully back to her.
Finally completing her meditations, she remained quietly in her first one, reaching into the minds of all those about her. She heard Ann'wn speaking to The Healer of her love for her, Uthrn pushing herself onto The Highest yet again, Meera and Caitha whispering quietly in each other's arms. She heard An'ther'on fulfilling her desires in the arms of a guard, and Sele', who was now beginning to rise, plotting her escape from her sorcerers. The High Queen smiled a little, recalling the sounds of life to her, as she recalled The First High Queen's words: Life is more precious than can be known. She moved slightly into the Master's mind, finding that she had just been fulfilled in Mil'der'in's very knowing arms.
As she brought herself more fully into The Realm, Sle'nel', Ann'wn and Meera had all risen and left to guard their Queen. Although well apart from one another, they guarded The High Queen silently as she continued to return her strength.
Ann'wn sighed as she watched and guarded her, fulfilled and overjoyed in her love with The Healer, hoping that she gave to The Healer that which The Healer now gave to her. In spite of all her prior lovers, none came close to giving her the feelings she now enjoyed in The Healer's love and touch.
Meera looked on silently, never fully approving of the locations The High Queen used during her meditations, noting that the locations were ever fully exposed. It was the reason she chose to try to always watch over The High Queen while she was in her meditations. Sle'nel', per her usual, stood quietly behind a tree, observing fully, open to all that was about her.
Suddenly, a medium-sized whirlwind of sand appeared near The High Queen, bringing everyone to their full-attention. The High Queen sensed it and quickly removed herself from her first meditation and thoughts, waiting for what she knew would appear from it, well beyond disappointed that she hadn't avoided it.
Ann'wn and Meera were astounded as the whirlwind dropped itself to the ground, leaving behind an overly old, but beautiful woman now standing before The High Queen.
The old woman looked at San'lr'in’ with much contempt, “So! You have finally returned to me. You took overly long."
Ann'wn and Meera looked on quietly, uncertain of what to do, but remaining fully prepared. It was apparent the woman knew The High Queen.
Her strident yet unwavering voice grated in San'lr'in's ears, but she looked upon the old woman without emotion, unmoving in her stance, “I pass by only. It wasn't My intention to see you."
"You display me no respect. Are these a High Queen's manners, then?"
The High Queen bowed her head once, sighing, “Grandmother."
"What? ONLY THIS? KNEEL before me."
"I will not do this as I have no respect for you."
The old but beautiful woman walked slowly around The High Queen, as if looking upon her. Meera took note that the old woman walked with a cane, thinking her basically helpless.
The old woman cackled, “You think yourself yet better than me, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'? Have you not yet learned of my usefulness?"
Sle'nel’ wondered who this woman was who spat out her words so angrily. She saw that San'lr'in’ knew this woman well, but didn't seem to have any regard for her. Sele’ had walked over to Sle'nel', as Sle'nel’ raised a finger to her lips. Sele’ nodded her understanding, as she sent her thoughts to her Birth-Mother: It is Grandmother.
Sle'nel’ looked down at her, fully surprised in her statement.
"I disturb not you or your realm. I pass this way only, and had no intent in regard to you. I only wished to avoid you."
"You trespass upon my lands."
"These are The Realm's lands, not yours. You live in the UnderRealm. I disturb these not."
"THESE ARE MY LANDS!"
San'lr'in’ chose not to respond, wishing her Grandmother hadn't appeared. It was why she had wanted to hurry through these vast lands, hoping to avoid her. The woman continued to walk in a circle around San'lr'in', examining her.
Sam had enough of Uthrn for the morn, so had risen and walked over to Meera. She saw that Meera was deeply engaged in watching over her sister. She whispered her question, “Who is that?"
Meera spoke over her shoulder, also whispering, “I know not, but The High Queen appears to know her well. She also appears not to like her."
"Bow to me, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. Show me your respect, and all will be forgiven."
"I have no respect of or for you, Grandmother. Calling you by this name and acknowledging My place within part of your lineage is the furthest respect I can bring forward to My now retching-throat."
The old woman laughed a wicked laugh, “So. I yet can cause you to feel great hate. It is your greatest weakness, this hate within you. If you had remained with me, you would be the greatest who will ever yet to come. You are great now only because of me, yet you are also weak. Pity."
Sle'nel’ saw the look of disgust and hate in her lover's eyes. Without knowing it, she fingered her arrows lightly, readied for any occurrence.
"BOW TO ME!"
San'lr'in’ had quit watching her Grandmother and stood in full contempt of her, “I did not do so then, and I will not do so now."
"I will give you one of my remaining powers, should you do this for me."
"You have nothing that I desire.” San'lr'in’ was struggling to maintain control, yet facing away from the one she had longed wish to avoid.
Why did I allow Ann'wn’ to bring us through these lands?
The old woman suddenly lifted her cane and brought it down with full force upon San'lr'in's back, then again, and again. San'lr'in’ fell to the ground on her knees, catching herself but falling onto one hand as her other hand held her now screaming back.
Within a flash, an arrow streaked in front of the old woman, just missing her, while Ann'wn, Sam and Meera's sword tips were, as suddenly, pinching against the skin of her throat. San'lr'in’ was on her knees groaning from the great pain, holding onto her back. Hate showed in her eyes, as did pain. Sle'nel’ called for The Healer.
The High Queen rose slowly, but with great difficulty, looking upon her Grandmother in even greater contempt. As Sle'nel’ saw blood coming through her lover's gown, she wished she hadn't chosen to miss the old woman with her arrow.
The High Queen raised an arm out, preparing to rid herself and The Realm of this so contemptuous one, but Sele’ halted her, “No, Mother High Queen. You must not do this. Allow her not to tempt you toward this. This is what she wants. She wants your powers."
The High Queen looked down at Sele', thinking for a moment on what she had said. Looking back to her Grandmother, who was now laughing, The High Queen lowered her arm, knowing that Sele’ was correct. Her eyes seethed with hate at her Grandmother, “You are nothing but a despicable worn-out worm."
The old woman laughed, “For all your training, you have never mastered this hate of me away from you. You have failed, and you embarrass me in this regard."
Sle'nel’ had come up to the old woman once she saw that Meera, Sam and Ann'wn now held her at sword tip. She walked right up to her, staring directly into her face, “And who shouldn't hate such a cowardly act as this? Is this how you think all should be taught? To be so treacherous as this?"
"Ah, the Elf speaks. I saw your arrow. Did your shot miss, Elf?"
"No. Nor will the next."
The Grandmother looked to San'lr'in', who was yet in great pain from the blows to her back, “Even your Elf controls her hate far better than you. You know you want to take your revenge upon me, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. Go ahead. Now is your long-awaited opportunity. Do so."
Sam had returned with The Healer, who was now helping The High Queen to stand more fully.
The Healer spoke softly to San'lr'in', “You are bleeding, Highness."
"It will have to wait a few moments, Healer.” San'lr'in’ turned to Sam, “This is your long-prior Grandmother, from your Mystic side, Highest."
Sam looked at the old woman, amazed, but having seen what she had done to her sister, she wanted no part of her, “We cannot help our lineage. It is not our fault.” She looked upon her sister with tenderness, “Are you greatly hurt?"
"What a soft bunch of cowards you are. Is this how you have trained your forces, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'? If so, all my training is wasted on you."
Sele’ looked back up to her High Queen, “She sounds like your other sister, High Queen. Does she not?"
San'lr'in’ had never thought on this possibility, but now did, laughing lightly. Sam looked at her as if she were crazy, “What is as humorous as this?"
"Sume'n'tinel'ti'non. As the Young One says. This old woman trained her, as well. I would now wager that even our other sister hates this one. What say you on this, Grandmother? Does anyone like or respect you?"
"At least have the decency to tell your most pathetic guards to remove their swords from my neck, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'."
"Personally, Grandmother, I care not if they push those tips even further into your neck. It would rid Me of having any further dealings with you. You are nothing but loathsome to Me. I should have left far sooner than I did from your evilness and depravity. You disgust Me. The Young Future Supreme Sovereign is correct, however. I will not allow My hate of you to blind My thinking. None of My powers will come your way. You will not have them to control."
The Grandmother looked down at Sele', “So, this is yet another Granddaughter of mine. Come over here, Young One. I want to see you better. We yet know not each other. Perhaps I would have greater luck with you."
Sele’ stood slightly in front of her, but apart from her as well, “I know you well, Grandmother. I have been given these memories of you. And I will never train with you. This will not occur."
The Grandmother looked upon her through narrowed eyes, wondering, “Who gave you these memories of me that you hold so dear to your heart as if they were truth?"
San'lr'in’ was well interested in how Sele’ stood so firmly against this Grandmother of theirs, wondering what memories of her she had been given.
Sele’ stood fully erect, brave in her delivery, “Your Mother, Grandmother."
All heard the slight gasp from the Grandmother, “So. She yet betrays me. Even in her death."
San'lr'in’ began to move away from her hatred, “I have had enough of you, Old One. No more will you linger in My mind. I will now hold this final meeting between us as a great one, as no further will I have any need to reflect on our moments together. Everything I have long wondered on has now been displayed as truth. You are solely wicked and evil, and wish nothing but harm to others. We leave you to your realm of sand and dust. It is where you belong. The First High Queen was correct to leave you in these barren lands. Never will I tread upon your door again."
The Grandmother was desperate to hold San'lr'in’ to her, knowing that her granddaughter left her once, but was now leaving her again permanently. She couldn't have this as so, “I can help you go through the Sorcerer's Forest easily."
San'lr'in’ waved her hand, “We will manage, and as I have done all these cycles without your assistance, as you refer to such."
She began to walk away again when the Grandmother said, “I can help you find and capture the Dark Sorcerer."
San'lr'in’ turned around and stared at her, thinking. Sele’ walked back to her, “We can do this ourselves, High Queen."
San'lr'in’ looked down at Sele', then to her Grandmother, “Tell Me."
Fon'elnn’ had also walked over, hearing the commotion, wondering what was going on. When she arrived, she saw the Grandmother, and gasped, “Not being her!"
San'lr'in’ had watched the Master's emotions change as she saw the Grandmother, then realized that this was the First High Queen's Birth-Mother's Birth-Mother. She found it odd that after all these cycles, Fon'elnn’ would re-enter a realm knowing no one but this so-loathed Grandmother.
The Grandmother looked at Fon'elnn', then laughed wickedly, “So. You have finally returned. Your beloved couldn't manage it though, could she? And even she refused to use my powers to bring you back. She left you there, Fon'elnn', even knowing that I could help return you to The Realm, easily."
Fon'elnn’ staggered a bit at this remark, unsure of the truth within it, but stunned at the possibility that her High Queen had the way to bring her back but refused to use it.
San'lr'in’ intervened, “Fon'elnn'. Listen not to her deceit. No High Queen could risk using her powers for something such as this. You know this well. It comes at overly high a cost. Think on this. It would have cost your High Queen her realm. All of it. She would always be indebted to this one. She couldn't sell The Realm to this one. Never. You know this to be truth. She loved you well, Fon'elnn'."
The Grandmother cackled again, “Not well enough, it would seem.” She turned to Sle'nel', “See, Elf? Even your great love won't use my powers to save you if such occurred."
Sle'nel’ showed no emotion, “I would be disappointed in her if she did. But you are correct, gratefully, she wouldn't."
Fon'elnn’ turned to The High Queen, “She could having saved me?"
San'lr'in’ felt saddened for Fon'elnn', but angry at her grandmother for having used her so well. These evil manipulations of others are what helped force San'lr'in’ from her, long prior.
She nodded, “Yes, Fon'elnn'. She could have saved you, but would have risked all The Realm for it. It was against all her vows, though. It was part of the test to be High Queen. We cannot go so far against our vows. This one that now manipulates your heart so well cannot use her powers alone, as great as they are. She must have a vessel to do so. It is why she has sought every High Queen to her, so that she can use their powers to control The Realm. No High Queen would allow this to occur, Master. You know this well. Allow this one not to control your heart. You will be forever sorry for it."
The High Queen winced from the pain in her back, but looked at her Grandmother, “Tell Me how you could help defeat the Dark Sorcerer."
Sele’ pleaded, “No, High Queen. Listen not to her. Her words are like sweet poisoned wine."
Everyone was startled at Sele's analogy. The High Queen laughed lightly, “An interesting example you use, Young One. At another moment, you will have to tell Me more of this.” She looked back to her Grandmother, “Tell Me. What have you withheld from The Realm for your advantage?"
The Grandmother looked offended, “You trust me not, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'? After all I have given you, you use such words as these against me?"
San'lr'in’ laughed in a half-crazed, maniacal fashion, “Trust you? I trust you, Grandmother. This is most certain. I trust you well to be who you are.” Suddenly, she turned serious, “Tell Me what you withhold from Me, but will now share to capture My attentions."
"He is of your line."
Everyone gasped, including Sele', but San'lr'in’ rolled her eyes, “I care not if he is My brother, Grandmother. He will die by My hand for his long-prior deeds. Per chance, Grandmother, was this one also trained by you?"
The Grandmother knew she was losing ground with San'lr'in', “A union between you and he would create the strongest ruler to ever live, Granddaughter. No human could ever step foot onto our Realm again. Ever."
San'lr'in', while yet in great pain, felt herself finally move her mind away from this long-hated Grandmother, “You are tedious in your petty attempts, Grandmother. I can see you have nothing to offer Me but barren bribes and empty words."
"The Spirits of the Falls were correct. You should have been killed when you were born. We never could trust you. I told them that you wouldn't interfere into their affairs, but I was wrong. You did. And the Future Supreme Sovereign should have been theirs to command. I should have killed you when I had the chance. You never were any good to us."
The High Queen looked hard at her, studying her, “So ... you were the one behind their deception of Woden and The Realm. I should have guessed this far long prior. You have been in continual contact with the Spirits of the Falls, would be my guess. While I know not how you managed as such, now I know this as truth. What did they give you as payment for your services, Grandmother? More young pretty girls that you are so overly fond of to play with at your desire? Perhaps young Woden girls?"
"This is not your affair! You are vicious, San'lr'in'. But yes, I was in contact with them, and they treated me well, as they would have done to The Realm if you had given them the opportunity."
"Good to The Realm, you say? You cannot think this as truth, Grandmother. They have lied, allowed humans and Mystics to die, and have manipulated many so that they may control The Realm."
"They should have controlled it, rather than you."
"I don't do so now. I am High Queen, certainly, but serve all those in The Realm."
"They are overly stupid to know what they want. They need to be controlled."
"I know not why I even speak with you. You are a waste of The Realm's moments."
San'lr'in’ began to turn away once again, when the Grandmother pulled out her last available manipulation, “He breeds, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. You may kill the Dark Sorcerer, but you know not of his offspring. I do. His off-spring is much like the Young One here."
Every muscle in San'lr'in's body twitched in her anger at this Grandmother. Given the opportunity, she would kill this one in a moment, but knew that she couldn't do so, as the powers she would use would only strengthen the Grandmother's evilness. No power could successfully be used against her. It would only serve to feed her. And San'lr'in’ couldn't command another to do so, as the same thing would occur. Only an innocent of this knowledge could kill the Grandmother without being commanded. But across all these cycles, none had been able to do this. It further infuriated San'lr'in', but she could only hope that others would take whatever action they deemed appropriate. She couldn't use her powers against this one, or she would lose her powers to her.
Sle'nel’ had stepped back slightly, observing more of this Grandmother of theirs, listening more carefully to her words. Watching the interactions and hearing the words, she began to discover why her lover couldn't use her powers against this one, and began to suspect the rest of it. Surprising Sle'nel', she suddenly felt her eyes turn cold, as she felt her heart turn to stone. She knew that the Sorrows of the Stones had begun to call to her.
San'lr'in’ had forgotten about Sle'nel’ being the High Sorcerer of the Sorrows, as Sle'nel’ seldom chose to heed their call. As she began to see the sky turn dark from the clouds that now raced in, she heard her Grandmother mutter quietly to herself, “Yes, Elf. Bring me the powers of the Stones. I have long awaited for such powers as these."
Of all those about, no one had yet pieced together the story of this Grandmother. None of them yet knew that The High Queen couldn't use her powers against this one, as the powers would only serve to feed her evilness further. None of them had guessed that The High Queens, each in their own era, had each wished for this one's death but could do nothing about it. None of the ones now holding a sword to the Grandmother's neck or standing near her had figured out that this Grandmother could only die by an innocent's hand, except one.
Sle'nel', now unable to do otherwise, held her staff out from her, beginning to call the Sorrows to her. The High Queen struggled to prevent it, knowing she couldn't use her own powers, “NO! Sle'nel'. NO! YOU MUST NOT! She will take these powers from you. NOOOO!!!!! She must not have these powers!"
Suddenly, Meera also, unlike all the other innocents far before her, had finally pieced the puzzle together. In the chaos of the moment, and now knowing her Queen's true desire, she suddenly removed the knife from her belt and plunged it deeply into the Grandmother's greedy and hateful heart. But the act wasn't an act of a warrior, and Meera was uncertain as to what compelled her to it, as the Grandmother had been unarmed.
No one had expected as such, especially the Grandmother and The High Queen. The Grandmother fell to the desert sands, her eyes showing their disbelief. She had been so close to becoming so very powerful in The Realm through the Sorrows of the Stones. She held out her hand toward Sle'nel’ as she fell dying, tasting her new powers, After so many eons, I came so close as this.
Hearing her lover, Sle'nel’ moved her staff close to her, taking back the powers into her that were unfulfilled, allowing herself the great pain this took, while Sele’ stood calmly aside, pleased in her Birth-Mother and Meera's response, but saying nothing. The High Queen, yet in great pain, looked quickly about at the scene, wondering what made Meera and Sle'nel’ to act in such uncharacteristic fashions. As her eyes darted quickly about, she saw Sle'nel’ move the remaining Sorrows into her own body, Meera troubled in her action of killing the Grandmother, Ann'wn stunned at Meera's action, her Grandmother lying dead, finally, after all these long eons. And then she saw Sele’ standing quietly, as if she had done nothing. Too quietly.
She turned to her Healer, “Quickly. Help Sle'nel’ to remove her pain."
She then turned to Sam, “Help Me walk over to Meera."
When they arrived to the bloody scene, she knelt down to Meera, who was now in shock at her own action, and who was crouching down near the grandmother. The High Queen said loudly enough for all to hear, “Well done, Warrior Woman. After all these eons of evilness, she is finally removed from The Realm. All thanks to your quick intelligence. If I could have done so, I would have, but it required an innocent such as you. I knew that your human background would serve The Realm well, Warrior Woman. I and all The Realm are in debt to you for this service. And all well know as law of The Realm that anyone who touches The High Queen in such a fashion as the Grandmother has, faces a quick death."
She reached her arm up to Sam, needing assistance to stand. She looked at all those now about her and told the story, “This, in truth, is the Grandmother of all The High Queens. But for all these eons, she has lived in evilness only, removed from The Realm by The First High Queen so that she could no longer feed from the powers of the Mystics. No power could be used against her, as it would only serve her evilness further. Across all these eons, each of The High Queens has wished this one dead, needed this one dead, but couldn't command it as so. Such a command would also feed the evilness within this one. It had to take a quit-witted innocent to solve the puzzle and to take this brave but seemingly murderous action."
She turned to Meera, “There hasn't been a turn in My lifespan without this one entering unwelcomed into My mind, speaking to Me of bringing The Realm to her knees. There hasn't been an eve without her in My head as I slept, torturing Me as well as each of The High Queen's prior. But we were powerless against such evil. Thank you, Warrior Woman. You have lifted a great weight from The Realm."
She looked back at Sle'nel’ and saw that The Healer was helping her. She looked at her now disintegrating Grandmother one final moment, “You should have died long prior, Grandmother, when the moment was correct. You outlived your ability to feel kindness and love. You lived on only through feeding yourself from the innocence of others. No longer. We will solve the mystery of the Dark Sorcerer ourselves, as we may, but The Realm has no further need of your tortures."
"You wanted her dead, my Queen?"
She turned to the voice, “Yes, Warrior Woman. Each of The High Queens has wished it so, but no innocent has ever stepped forward, in fear that what they did would be seen as murder. You are the only brave one across all these eons. In truth, I would have removed her from The Realm Myself, long prior, if I had been so able. But I will speak more of this to you at a later moment."
She looked over to Sele', who seemed a little overly pleased with herself. She looked back at Meera and touched her cheek, “You did well, Warrior Woman. You have My word on this. Ann'wn, see to it that this one receives the honor due her this turn. The Realm has waited overly long for this brave deed."
"Yes, my Queen. It will be done."
"Sister. Leave Me for a moment. Young One, come to Me."
Sele’ looked at her High Queen, startled at the voice. She wondered if The High Queen suspected something, so went to her, trying to look innocent. The High Queen crouched down, with great, great pain, placing her hand upon Sele's young head.
Tell Me!
You are in great pain, my Queen. I can feel this within you. You should be seen by your Healer.
Play not with Me, Young One. I have no patience for you at this moment. TELL ME!
She bowed her head in shame, I bent their minds to my will, Highness.
Meera's?
And Birth-Mother's, Highness.
When did you learn to use this power?
I was born with it, my Queen.
What other moment have you used it?
No other. This is the first moment. But, my Queen, I felt it—
SILENCE! You have much to account for, Young One.
You are displeased? Did you not want her dead?
You know I did. You have the memories of all of them, and know full well that all of them have wanted her dead. DO NOT ASK ME QUESTIONS, Sele'm'tinel'ti'non'n. Tell Me, Young One. Tell Me why I am upset with you.
You think I risked overly, Highness?
Of course this, but think harder, Young One. I know you are not as stupid as this.
My Birth-Mother will be angered at me?
I certainly would guess as much, wouldn't you?
And Meera? She will be angered at me?
She now has the legend of killing all The High Queens’ Grandmother, Stupid One. Do you think she wants such a legend tied to her?
You made her seem as a hero, my Queen.
Lucky for you, arrogant Young One.
More, my Queen?
Yes. Much more.
I used my powers selfishly?
What will be a fitting punishment for your actions, Selfish One?
You want me to tell them, High Queen?
Sele’ was crying now, unable to halt her emotions, but The High Queen remained relentless, knowing that this Future Supreme Sovereign needed to learn to use her powers far more judiciously. Although she was pleased in the final results, she knew that it had been a moment close to complete disaster for the entire Realm.
How were you able to use this power against the Grandmother without her using it in return?
A simple mind-twist, my Queen. She was unable to detect its simplicity.
How are these sorcerers supposed to train the likes of you?
High Queen?
I will have to turn you over to the great Master, most certain. These sorcerers know nothing about handling such as your abilities.
No, my Queen. Please do this not. I wish to remain with you.
You have displeased Me, Young One. You selfishly risked all that has been done for The Realm. You did this only for yourself, Young One.
No, my Queen. It was a gift for you. This is truth!
You took a life as a gift for Me? Do you not see how twisted this is, Young One?
She bowed her head again, sobbing, Yes, my Queen, but she deserved to die.
No one's death should be as easy as this for you, Young One. Who made you judge over all The Realm?
Everyone who made me. She stood straight now, defiant.
You allow the dark powers to call to you, Young One. Beware of this.
No they don't. I know what I do. Just because you don't understand doesn't mean I am wrong.
The High Queen stood, taking all her energies to do so, from the pain. Frowning deeply, with an eyebrow raised, she looked down at Sele', her displeasure displayed fully upon her face. She spoke softly and slowly, well angered, “Do you dare to speak to The High Queen in this fashion, Sele'm'tinel'ti'non'n?"
"I am the Future Supreme Sovereign of The Realm. My rank is over yours."
The High Queen glared at her for a long moment, Sele’ fully seeing that she had just made a most severe error of judgment.
The tension between them grew heavier as The High Queen continued to glare at her, “I am fully ashamed for you. Never will you be My ruler with this kind of thinking. You play overly with others for My liking, much like Grandmother. No one in all The Realm will ever follow such a callous ruler as this. The Realm's respect must be earned, not commanded. Leave Me."
Sele’ began crying again, unable to remain in her defiant stance, “Please, my Queen. I am sorry for my actions. Please allow me to remain with you. I only did this for you. I meant not what I just said."
"I care nothing for your words. You have disappointed Me greatly this turn. If you wish to remain in My presence, then think through your prior and future actions. Give Me a reporting of these reflections, if or when you have managed to pull yourself away from the dark powers. Otherwise, trouble Me no further. I have no need for another such as Grandmother, and this is the direction you now head."
"Please, High Queen."
San'lr'in'thel'ineln’ had begun to limp away from her, then turned back, “You shame your Realm, Sele'. Fully this. And Sele'?"
She was sobbing and sniffing, but looked up hopefully, “High Queen?” She had heard The High Queen call her by Sele', and knew what this meant. It wasn't a good name to be called by The High Queen.
San'lr'in’ narrowed her eyes and raised an eyebrow, “If you ever attempt to use your rank over Me again, know that at that moment we will forever be enemies."
She lowered her head again, fully sorry, “Yes, my Queen. I am truly sorry for this."
The High Queen bent down once again causing herself great pain, and made Sele’ look into her now well-angered eyes, “Know this, Sele'. You, as Future Supreme Sovereign of The Realm would always regret making Me an enemy."
"Yes, my Queen."
"All the legends would know of the truth in it, and would have you banned."
San'lr'in'thel'ineln’ winced and groaned from her back pain, but looked at Sele', “The path you choose at this very moment will have many consequences for you. Choose it wisely, as I cannot choose it for you. Think, Sele'. Only this. This is the moment to think, and think wisely. Act not in your anger. It will make enemies for you. And I am not an enemy you would desire. Choose your words wisely if you return to Me, as the words you have chosen to share with Me this turn are like a knife in My back. You have injured Me more than what My Grandmother did to Me. Do you understand this, Sele'? I would take her beatings any turn rather than hear these words of betrayal from you."
Sele’ hung her head, yet crying, fully ashamed of herself, recognizing that she had lost all the trust she had worked so hard to gain from this High Queen, “Yes, my Queen. I understand. Please call me not by this name, my Queen. I know what it means when you do so. I am sorry, Highness. I will do as you say. I will remove these dark thoughts and powers from me. I have heard your words, my Queen, and know them to be correct. I am sorry for the words I have chosen."
The High Queen moved her fingers under Sele's chin and raised her head, making her look at her, “I love you, Sele'. In truth, I am amazed by you. I want us to continue to grow through our cycles together, but you have done wrong. You have fully betrayed My trust. I need this not from you. I need you to be wise and strong, not murderous and vengeful. I need you to think through your actions. I need to be able to trust you in all things. I have great need to be able to trust every one of your thoughts and actions. I need us not to stand apart, as enemies. But I could never live with another who could take a life, or manipulate their own Birth-Mother as easily as this."
"I am sorry, Highness. Truly sorry.” She was sobbing beyond control.
"The dark powers try to turn us all, Sele'. They have a hold on you now, and you will now choose to go that route with the Dark Sorcerer, or to remain true to The Realm. The dark powers call you fiercely to them, as would I if I were them. I want you as fiercely as this also, Future Supreme Sovereign, but you will come to The Realm willingly, or not at all. It is the only choice given to you. I need you strong and wise. I need you to be a strength like never prior. I need you to make Me proud, Young One. I need you to stand tall because what you have done is correct, not to stand in defiance against what is correct."
"Yes, Highness. Yes, Great High Queen."
"Long prior, the dark powers tested Me as well, when I was living with this Grandmother of ours. She vowed Me all the powers I could ever dream of, and told Me that I could use them whenever and however I wished, and on whosoever I wished. It was as a vision, but I saw through her vows. They were nothing but the dark powers calling to Me. Don't go there, Sele'. I will seek you down to your death should this occur. And while I love you well, this act I would do unto My last breath. This is how much I have dedicated Myself to The Realm, Sele'. It is My vow as High Queen. I will allow no one, not even you, to harm The Realm in any fashion. No one will stand against these vows."
"Yes, High Queen. I am sorry for my jealous actions. Envy has grabbed well hold of me."
"Go away from Me now. You have offended Me beyond measure. If your act wasn't bad enough, you carved in stone upon My heart with your evil and mean words. Leave Me. Think on what has been said and done here this turn. Come to Me if you have removed yourself from the dark powers."
After Sele’ left, San'lr'in'thel'ineln’ tried to stand, but no longer could, having overly much pain from her back, and having bent down overly long in having to deal with Sele'. She cried out a little, an unusual moment for The High Queen, and The Healer, Ann'wn, and Sle'nel’ came running to her, having been only slightly apart from her. They had witnessed the occurrence between her and Sele', but said nothing of it, knowing that Sele’ now had to deal with The High Queen's anger directly.
"I can't move, Healer. The pain."
"Move your foot for me, Highest."
She did so.
"Now your toes. Can you feel your toes?"
"Yes, yes. Overly so. Thank the mothers."
Sle'nel’ touched her shoulder, “She hit you with great strength, San'lr'in'. She was a mean one. Had you no kindness from any in your past?"
The Healer moved her fingers quickly and nimbly across The High Queen's spine, checking her back, “I need to move you to a better place, my Queen. I am going to have Ann'wn carry you back to your shelter. The evil one has well injured your back, but not broken the bones. You are not in this danger.” She placed her hand lightly on The High Queen's head, “Try to relax, my Queen. It is not like prior. I will remove this pain in but a moment. Let us move you first."
The High Queen nodded, lying down fully upon the sand, having no strength to continue to fight the pain. Ann'wn bent down, “I am sorry, my Queen, but I am about to cause you some pain. Try to relax fully as I lift you. Don't try to help me, as it will increase your pain."
She looked at Ann'wn for a moment and nodded, but said nothing. As Ann'wn lifted her, she groaned, unable to keep it within her, and winced from the great pain. She placed her head against Ann'wn's strong shoulder as she was carried to her shelter, grateful for her Force Leader, exhausted from having to deal with overly much pain throughout the event. The Healer worked quickly to remove some of the deep pain, then cut away The High Queen's gown so that she could look upon the wound inflicted by the now dead Grandmother. The High Queen was lying on her side, unable to tolerate the pain while lying on her stomach.
The Healer shook her head as she saw it, seeing that the wounds were inflamed welts straight across The High Queen's back, fully swollen in their anger. The Grandmother had hit The High Queen so hard with her cane that it had broken some of the skin across her back, as it had also broken some of the skin from The High Queen's long-prior back wound. The Healer wasn't pleased.
"I may speak out of place, High Queen, but that one deserved to die for what she has done to you. There is a law of instant death against any who strike a High Queen, so the deed was correct."
The Healer began to remove some of the pain nearer to the wounds, but not directly on them, avoiding touching them until The High Queen could better manage her pain.
"Can you move to your stomach, Highness?"
"No."
"How long were you with the Grandmother, High Queen?"
"Long enough to wish her dead. I guess My wish came true."
The Healer could tell from her voice that The High Queen was finally able to move away from the greatest of the pains. She continued removing more of the smaller pains for a few moments, then halted, needing her Queen to move so that she could apply an ointment.
"I need to rub an ointment on your back, Highness. It will cause some immediate pain, but will then help to mask it. Can you move onto your stomach yet if I help turn you?"
The High Queen sighed, then did as The Healer asked. Sle'nel’ came beside her lover and looked at her as The High Queen turned her head sideways, now lying on her stomach.
"What do you see, Elf?"
Sle'nel’ smiled, “The High Queen as helpless. It is a rare moment."
"Wager no bet on this, Elf. You might lose."
The Healer was glad for Sle'nel's help, choosing this moment to begin rubbing the ointment onto the wounds, directly.
The High Queen groaned more loudly than any of them had prior heard, except for The Healer. Sle'nel’ made a funny face at her, kissed her cheek, trying to distract her lover from her pain.
"Personally, San'lr'in', I think The Healer is correct. That one needed to die, or I wouldn't have felt compelled to call the Sorrows of the Stones."
"I know all this is truth, and as you say, she was evil."
"Then why does Sele’ stand apart from the camp, crying and trying to enter into her meditations?"
"Leave her. She has much to learn this turn. Perhaps she will tell you soon."
"High Queen?"
"You have my leave, Ann'wn. What is it you wish from Me?"
"What did you mean when you said she lives in the UnderRealm. I thought only the Great Beast did as such."
"Like the Women in the Trees. She lives under the vast lands. Her dwelling in truth, is amazing. If I can ever walk again, and if I could find the entrance, you could see her dwelling. This dwelling was the only reason I remained as long as I did with her, as she used to beat Me this way upon every turn. The First High Queen banished her to the vast lands, and had the dwelling re-built for her. She placed a spell on her, ensuring that she could never leave these lands."
The Healer and Sle'nel’ both winced at the thought of their Queen beaten every turn by the grandmother. Sam had entered a little prior, wondering as to her sister's condition, now just listening. She also was stunned at the statement.
"Every turn?"
"At least. At some moments, two or three moments a turn. I left with My back well in shreds, or so it felt as such."
"Did you ever hit her, in return?"
Sam heard her sister's voice seize up with hate from the memory, “Only once. It was one of the gravest mistakes of My youth. It gave her My own powers to use against Me, and she did, fully. I couldn't move for many turns after that. I left just as soon as I could move."
"I am fully amazed she let you leave."
"She didn't. I fought My way out."
The Healer spoke softly, “I wonder if she ever beat Sume’ in this fashion."
San'lr'in’ thought quietly on the statement, knowing full well that if her sister had remained any moments with the Grandmother, she also had been beaten. All she managed to say was, “Poor Sume'n'tinel'ti'non. She wouldn't have been able to stand against her as I did."
Sam looked at her sister, “Meera feels like she has not done right for The Realm."
"I have tried to convince her otherwise, but it is not easy to be the one who rid The Realm of all the prior High Queens’ Grandmother. Perhaps you can help her move through this moment.” She turned her head back over, “Force Leader. When do we leave?"
"The Sorcerer's Forest is a little further than half-a-turn's hard ride, my Queen. When would you like to leave?"
"Give Me an incident-free turn, and we can leave as it cools next turn. We can then enter into the Sorcerer's Forest in the early morn the following turn, at first light, and try to accomplish it within the turn. Otherwise, it will be even more challenging to remain through the eve. I doubt if it will be comfortable for all to do this."
"When would you like to have your meeting in regard to this, High Queen?"
"Healer. When will I be able to rise?"
"Not for a while yet, High Queen. Hold your meeting now if you must, but I will keep you chained here for a while longer."
The High Queen laughed softly, “Call the others to Me, Ann'wn. I will gladly remain with The Healer, as she has managed to make Me feel much improved. You will have to be without her for a little longer."
Ann'wn blushed, now knowing that her High Queen knew of their union, but smiled lovingly at The Healer, touching her cheek softly as she left, “Yes, High Queen. I will return in a moment with the others."
Unknowing to The High Queen, The Healer had quietly placed a sleeping spell within her for a moment, so that she could rest. As The High Queen slept, The Healer spoke softly to Sle'nel', “She is hard on the Young One."
"We know not what occurred, as yet. Perhaps it was needed."
"She did nothing, though."
Sle'nel’ frowned, “Oh, but Healer, I think she did. I think The High Queen may be most correct in this. I felt strangely compelled to call the Sorrows to me. But I didn't make this decision myself."
The Healer nodded, “I do know that The High Queen is seldom wrong, in any regard."
Sle'nel’ looked upon The Healer, “You look tired."
The Healer blushed, “A contented and happy tired, I think."
Sle'nel’ knew that others would be coming, “Should we cover her up? The others shouldn't see her in this fashion. She has nothing on."
"I'll cover her slightly, but I need her back to remain uncovered for a while longer.” They both covered all parts of her except her back.
The Healer looked upon The High Queen's back, shaking her head, “Such punishment this Queen and back have gone through. I wish I could make all these scars disappear for her, both the inside as well as the outside ones."
For many moments, they sat and waited, watching The High Queen as she slept.
"She said she was beaten upon every turn in this fashion. No wonder she refuses to speak of her upbringing."
Sle'nel’ nodded, “They trained her to be hard, without feeling. But they were wrong. They selected the correct High Queen and trained her well, but forgot that a High Queen must also have soft moments. Even a warrior has soft moments, do they not, Healer?"
She blushed again, thinking of her and Ann'wn's morn, as Ann'wn gave in fully to her needs and desires of her. Never did The Healer think that such a warrior as Ann'wn could be so gentle and loving, “Indeed. Even a warrior has the softest of moments."
"I hope you are not trying to say that I, as High Queen, am soft."
Sle'nel’ laughed, “Never would we call you such as this, High Queen. You are most definitely the most hard and unmoving of all, in the entire Realm."
The High Queen nodded, “Good. You finally have it correct. Healer, can I rise yet?"
The Healer moved to face The High Queen, “No, my Queen. I am sorry for this, but the ointment needs its many moments to fully work. It is a complex potion, and one that spreads across the moments. You will be able to rise and participate fully in a little while, High Queen. Have patience. I think you will be amazed in this potion's healing properties. You will be feeling as if nothing has occurred in just a while, although your back will yet take many moments to fully heal. We will also need to apply the potion upon every turn for a short while, perhaps a few turns."
"I can tolerate this. The memory of My long-prior back wound serves My patience well in this regard. It is this singular pain that brings Me to my knees, although I wish it wouldn't. It makes Me feel weak and embarrassed."
"There is no embarrassment in the pain you just went through, High One. All others wouldn't have been able to move from the moment of the blows. This pain was indeed most difficult. I am not yet fully recovered from removing it from you, and in truth, cannot remove all of it. It is why I am so grateful I have found the alchemy necessary for it. It is a new find for me, but I can already see its worth."
"As can I, Healer. Just refrain from sharing its ingredients. Entertain Me, Healer, since you leave Me in this most awkward of positions."
"My Queen?"
"Entertain Me. Tell Me of your newfound love. Is she good to you? Is she a good lover?"
The Healer blushed again, once again calling their morn's physical moments to her. She had never prior felt so fully consumed by another, yet so fully intertwined, together. Ann'wn touched her in ways that she had only ever prior hoped for, but never received. At one of the moments with Ann'wn, she felt like she would never again step foot upon The Realm, she felt as high as this. And she could tell that when she touched Ann'wn in certain ways, Ann'wn responded fully, giving in even more than she had expected of herself. And she recalled the moment that Ann'wn cried out her name softly, lovingly, as her long release finally came its due.
"She has been in front of me all these moments, High One, yet I have never seen her. How could this be so? I have never prior felt as such with another, beyond you. It is as if she knows and responds to my every wish."
"Good. If I could command this as so for you, I would. I am pleased she adores you, as she should. As you say, the two of you have been overly many moments bringing yourselves together in this union. While all others stood by waiting, knowing that it would occur upon one turn, you two remained apart. But all others saw the way you looked at each other. It has been hidden to only the two of you."
The Healer laughed, fully embarrassed, “No. This cannot be so. Tell me you jest only."
"You know I don't. This is truth. Tell her, Sle'nel'. Tell her that even the Young One has seen the sparks between the two of you."
Sle'nel’ smiled and nodded, “It is so. And all the camp knew the moment upon your first eve together. I would guess that many wagers occurred that eve. Is she a good lover for you then, Healer?"
She blushed again, “She is quite good, Elf."
"Who is, Healer?"
Ann'wn, Sam, An'ther'on, the Force Leader for The High Queen's Black Guard, Uthrn, Fon'elnn', Meera and Caitha had all entered the small shelter, hearing The Healer's last words.
They all knelt and bowed their heads, “Great High Queen. We have come as you bid."
San'lr'in’ had always enjoyed her quiet moments together with her most treasured ones, but as the journey lengthened, her quiet moments became increasingly important to her. Now that many were upon her, she began the meeting abruptly, “The Sorcerer's Forest is the place where a long-prior sorcerer lost control of her spells, accidentally sending them forever onto the forest itself. No one since has been able to take back these spells, or has attempted such. The Forest is riddled with spells, constant in their attempts to displace themselves onto unknowing recipients. It is all Mystical only, yet it can send the strongest of warriors crazy. Nothing is as it first seems in the Sorcerer's Forest. We can assume nothing is as it seems, but cannot assume nothing is not as it seems. It is as confusing as this."
"How do we go through such a forest as this, my Queen?"
"Blindfolded, An'ther'on. Caitha is a human and will lead us through, as none of it will appear to her. As a human, she is impervious to the Sorcerer's Forest Mythical nature. She will see nothing but trees, as any of us would in any other forest."
"And Meera, here, my Queen. She can lead us as well. She is also human."
The High Queen hesitated for a moment, then said, “Perhaps so."
"But she is human."
"Yes. It is as you say.” The High Queen halted her words there, wondering if what she thought was indeed true of Meera. She suspected that Meera had begun to transition into the Mystical aspects of The Realm, and wondered if other humans, upon such close contact with the Mystics, would do the same.
"How will we catch this Dark Sorcerer, my Queen?"
"I will catch him, Force Leader. He is mine. Fon'elnn’ has given Me all that I need in this regard. The First High Queen's sword, My Sword and Sle'nel's staff will bring him to us after we cross through The Sorcerer's Forest. He will roam free upon The Realm no longer. And I will ensure that he will never touch upon This Realm again."
"What of his son, My Queen?"
"His son? You mean his daughter? I know not. I must first find with who he has bred. Then I will know what to do with this young one. But first, I will remove the Dark Sorcery forever from this Realm. Whatever it is that this young one now holds, it is not the Dark Sorcery."
"Perhaps the Future Supreme Sovereign might help in this regard, my Queen?"
"The Future Supreme Sovereign is making a decision this turn, Ann'wn. What she decides will have far-reaching effects for all of us. We will hopefully learn more this eve. Until then, I know not what she will be able to do for The Realm."
"You are angered with her, my Queen?"
"I am disappointed in her. We will learn more on this later, Highest. It is up to her, solely. You all have My leave."
They all knelt and bowed their heads once again, “Great High Queen.” They then left the small and overly cramped shelter. Ann'wn remained behind to be close to her Queen and to her lover.
"I am feeling most improved, Healer. I need to rise."
"It is the moment, my Queen. But allow us to help so that the pain returns not. It is the moment for your eve meal anyway, and you must eat. Otherwise, this potion will become overly strong for your insides, my Queen."
"As you say, Healer, but spare Me your details."
The Healer and Sle'nel’ dressed her into her most soft and clean garment. The High Queen flexed herself into various gentle positions, testing her back, “Well done, Healer. There is no pain."
"Be easy on it, High One. I cannot vow as to its endurance, as yet."
Sle'nel’ looked at her lover, “Will Sele’ return to us?"
She hesitated, knowing the worried concern Sle'nel’ was displaying, “I know not. All those with such powers are tested and called by the dark powers. Even your prior lover will face such as this."
"What if she doesn't return?"
She looked for a long moment at her beloved Elf, then softly said, “Then I will have to remove her."
"Remove her? What is your meaning in this?"
She sighed deeply, “From The Realm. Her powers are overly strong to allow them to be controlled by the dark powers. This must not occur. It is why I am so hard on her."
She saw a look of fright in Sle'nel's eyes. She placed her hands upon Sle'nel's shoulders, then turned her head slightly to her Healer and Force Leader, “Leave Me. I need a moment. I will see you at the eve meal."
"You will kill her?"
San'lr'in’ sighed, “This is one of the moments I most fear between us. We stand together as lovers, yet I must stand apart as High Queen, while you must stand close to her as her Birth-Mother. It is an impossible of moments between us. I know this sounds as a harsh decision, but your Birth-daughter is one of the strongest powers in all The Realm. If she allows herself to turn to the dark powers, to the dark thinking, she will become as evil as the Grandmother and the Dark Sorcerer, but with many, many more powers. Such cannot occur. I will have no choice but to remove her while I am yet able to do so. Upon one turn, she will become stronger than I. And what she did this turn was but a mere breath away from Dark Sorcery."
"But she is so young. She has so much to learn. She is naïve."
"She is not young. She has the memories of all The prior High Queens. She is an old mind, and should have known better. The Watchers of The Realm are highly displeased this turn. If they could, they would remove her this instant. They give no chances, and consider Me overly soft."
"Don't you love her?"
"I do. And this is truth. What would you do if you knew she turned to the dark powers, My Elf? Would you allow her powers to remain in The Realm?"
"Is there no other choice?"
The High Queen sighed, “Trust her not so little as this. She has been given nothing but love and honor. If this will not do, then there is little else that we can do for her. But let us trust that she will remain true to her path."
"What did she do?"
"She will have to inform you of this herself. And I believe she will do so."
The meal was a quiet one, as all waited to see if Sele’ would do as needed. The High Queen ate her meal with no interest, little talking occurring amongst the group. Ann'wn built a fire for The High Queen and her close attendants, and all sat quietly around it, hoping.
"Why did your teachers allow you to be beaten by our Grandmother, Highness?"
San'lr'in’ looked across to Sam, thinking on her answer, “In truth I know not, but their answer was that it helped to build strength of character in Me. I wonder if they knew that she did as such, though.” She looked over to her High Counselor, “Did your teachers beat you in this fashion, Mil'der'in?"
"Like this? No. Not with a cane. I was slapped quite often though, or shoved out of their sight when I displeased them."
Sle'nel’ held tightly onto her Queen's arm, “Were you shown no love?"
"By a few, now and then. Your Mother was kind, always. Never was she mean. She was a true teacher. Some of the Masters were not unkind. Ern'seln's mother was at some moments kind to Me.” She looked over to Mil'der'in, “Did you have any kindness given to you?"
"We had more than you were allowed, my Queen. They raised you differently. They didn't want you to love, so showed you none. But I wouldn't call either of our upbringings as loving, Highness."
Sam rose and displayed how she could now manipulate the small ball of power that The High Queen had given to her. She couldn't last long with it, but San'lr'in’ saw great improvement in her ability to use and control her powers. She laughed, “Well done, Highest. This is much improved."
Uthrn frowned, “She practices with it always. Even in our shelters."
Sle'nel’ was giving up hope that Sele’ would return to them. The moon had risen high into the sky, and even The High Queen had begun to be concerned. Finally, she saw Sele’ come up slowly to the fire. No one spoke. Sle'nel’ breathed in her relief silently. She knew that no matter what now occurred, the worse was over.
Sele’ stood in front of all of them, looking sad and defeated, “I have done many terrible things to all of you this turn, and now stand before you as I face my due."
No one said anything, giving Sele’ the moments she needed, as well as making her face them fully. They also wouldn't give in to her sadness until The High Queen allowed it.
She went and stood in front of Meera, then knelt and bowed her head, “Warrior Woman of The Realm. I have done you a grave injustice this turn. I bent your will toward mine, which made you to take Grandmother's life. I manipulated your thoughts. The High Queen told me that while the act itself was well within the bounds of our laws, since Grandmother attacked The High Queen, it was I who made you do this. And now the legends will tell the story that it was you who killed the Grandmother of all The High Queens. I have done you a great injustice, Warrior Woman. Please know that I am truly sorry for my manipulation of your mind."
Caitha was stunned, but said nothing, knowing fully that the Young One had indeed crossed all bounds. Even Ern'seln', who was now sitting amongst them, was fully shocked. She had crossed this border successfully many turns prior, but had never guessed that Sele’ would respond in this fashion to such testing as this.
Meera looked across at her High Queen, wondering what she should do. The High Queen nodded to her, “Do as you will, Warrior Woman. It was to you that this act was done."
Meera thought about it for a moment, fully upset by what Sele’ had done, “I am a Warrior of The Realm, Sele'. This means I have given my heart and my complete trust to The High Queen. I have done as such as she has earned my loyalty and respect many moments, over and over, even within the short span of my learning of her. In truth, there is nothing in all this Realm that I could do to ever match the great deeds of our High Queen. This is how loyalty and devotion are earned, Sele'. She has never manipulated my mind, nor has ever deceived me. When, or if, you ever become the leader you are meant to be, I would hope that you would wish for truly loyal and devoted warriors. Because if you must twist their minds to you for obedience, at one moment in The Realm, in a moment when you are unaware, those warriors will take your head from you. Make no mistake about this. A leader who mistreats their forces will earn no loyalty from them. And now you have earned my disrespect, Sele'. I no longer see you as a future leader, as until I can once again trust you to be loyal and steadfast to The Realm, I can only see you as selfish. I serve The High Queen, Sele', and if she commands me to tend to you, I will do so willingly. But know this—I will not serve you in the doing of this. You are no leader of mine."
Sele’ listened to Meera without a word, then hung her head in shame, “I understand, Warrior Woman of The Realm. I am sorry for my actions and will seek to repair this damage. I know it will take long to do so. For what it is worth, I expect you not to ever trust me again."
San'lr'in’ was watching Sele’ carefully, not fully certain if Sele’ was telling the truth or manipulating the moment. She acknowledged within herself, though, that Sele’ was standing as much older upon this moment, almost ancient, fully feeling the burden of her deed.
Sele’ then went to Sle'nel'. Once again, she knelt and bowed her head in shame, “Birth-Mother. I bent your will toward mine this turn. In the doing of this I showed you great disrespect, and I almost cost The Realm your powers as the High Sorcerer of the Stones. I manipulated your mind, knowing that it was easy to do so, but I am sorry now for having done it. I have broken the trust and bond between Birth-Mother and Birth-daughter. I am guilty of these things, and am before you in this guilt. I know not how to repair this, Birth-Mother, and am fully ashamed for my actions and manipulations of the woman I most love in all The Realm. I wouldn't be surprised, and in fact would understand if you cast me out of your heart. My act was a terrible display of disrespect. I am ashamed I have done as such to an Elf, and to my Birth-Mother."
San'lr'in’ listened carefully, fully amazed at how much Sele’ had grown emotionally, in just the turn. Sle'nel’ didn't know what to say. She had already guessed as to what Sele’ had done, but hadn't really realized the extent of the potential damage her actions could have incurred. Kneeling before her was her Birth-daughter, but at this moment, she seemed more a stranger to her, an evil and manipulative stranger. Yet, she was also part Elf, as was Sle'nel', and no other love was this forgiving.
"You are young in mind, yet ancient in mind. You have been given many powers to use overly early. While you have these long memories, you have not the experience needed to use your powers and abilities wisely. I also was once a leader, Sele'. I was the Second of all of Woden for a short moment in its past, so I well know the burden of leadership and what it means to have gained the trust of those I served. It was a great feeling to have gained and earned this trust. But never did I step away from this trust and use it against them. They placed me as their leader, trusting me to do the best I could, and understanding if I made mistakes. But this was no mistake on your part, Sele'. You did this knowingly and willingly. You used and manipulated me. I know not what I wish to do in this regard, and will think on it, but you have disappointed me greatly. No matter how I wish otherwise, every moment you say anything to me now, I will wonder if you lie or twist my mind to your way of thinking."
Sele’ turned to the rest of them, facing them, knowing it was the way of The Realm for the village members to have their say, “I stand before each and all of you, guilty in my actions this turn. From my memories, I know that it is the moment for each of you to say your share, as you please, and it is for me to bear up to it, as it was I alone who did these actions, as my Birth-Mother has so correctly said, willingly and knowingly."
Sam looked at her daughter, saddened for her, but angered at her, “I have done my share of hurting others, Sele', and I know well the consequences of it. The consequences you now face will follow you for many moments. It is not just this moment squarely in front of all of us that will change your direction. It will be how you face everyone's questioning of you for the next few moons and cycles that will mark your direction, as well as define who you are to become in this Realm. You are young, but as your Birth-Mother says, also old. It is this oldness that has allowed you to become arrogant in your powers and knowledge, rather than humble and giving, such as my sister, your High Queen. I am ashamed for your actions, as I am ashamed for mine, but mostly, I am ashamed that you have treated Meera, your Birth-Mother, and The High Queen in such a disrespectful fashion. If you were a grown woman, Sele', and not special as you were meant to be, you would be cast-away from us. But you are lucky in this regard, even though it will feel as unlucky. It is impossible for a mother to not love their child, but I am fully ashamed for you this turn."
Caitha looked at Sele’ with tears in her eyes, “I love you, Sele', but no one has ever treated M'Love in the disrespectful fashion you have but displayed this turn. She is a great fine woman, as are your Birth-Mother and The High Queen. We are all ashamed for you. You will have to earn back this respect, as none of us now can think of you as a future leader of any sort. Not even your Aunt Sume’ treats her subjects in such a fashion."
Ern'seln’ stood up, surprising all, “I am young, Sele'. Both younger, yet older than you. I also have had to face these dark powers, but I stood directly in front of them and stared them down. I told them to go away and never cross my path again. I have sworn my life to The High Queen and The Realm. Never would I show such disrespect to my High Queen, my Birth-Mother, or any other in all The Realm. It is a Master's duty to be always respectful and steady to their duty. I know my path well, Sele'. How is it you know not yours this well? The High Queen has attached me to your service, but as The Warrior Woman of The Realm has also said, I serve The High Queen, not you. You shamed us all."
For many further moments, most of those around the fire said their feelings to Sele', as was the way in The Realm. The High Queen was both regretful that Sele’ had to face their anger, but also pleased that Sele’ had come willingly to it. The High Queen knew that Sele’ was finally facing down the dark powers. But she could also see that the burdens of dedicating one's self to The Realm were beginning their eternity of weight upon the young Future Supreme Sovereign. As sad as it seemed, it had to be so.
When all were done, Sele’ went to The High Queen and knelt deeply, bowing her head to the ground, kissing The High Queen's boots, “I am yours to command. I am yours to punish. I have done much wrong this turn."
She stood and told those who sat around the fire of the words she had said to her High Queen. She left nothing out, even telling them that she used her rank against The High Queen. All gasped as she told the story, stunned that The High Queen yet allowed her within their ranks. When she was done, she was fully crying but not giving in to it, knowing she had to face them or leave The Realm.
When she was done with the divulgence of her statements and actions, she knelt back down to The High Queen, “Do with me as you will. I submit myself to The Realm and to my High Queen. I will work from this turn on to regain your trust in me, and to your dying turn, never will I take over as Supreme Sovereign. Your rule is now Supreme. Not mine. This must be so. Your path is the true one, and of all others, of all my memories, none have given as much as you or have remained as true to their path as you. I can only hope to do as well as this, but now know I can do no better. I am now and will remain until your death, under your command, my Queen. This is the path I choose."
"I accept your statement, Young One, for what it is, and I thank you for your submission to My reign as High Queen."
"My Queen? I have thought long and hard on a proper punishment for my actions."
"I am listening."
"I ask, respectfully, if you will bring to you the Circle of Power."
The High Queen studied Sele’ for a moment, knowing well what she was suggesting. The Circle of Power was a power that had been given only to San'lr'in'. This power allowed her to receive another's powers within the small ball of energy without having to bring the powers within her own, without disturbing the partnership within her. She could keep the powers safe within the circle until the moment was correct to return the powers to another, or to take them for herself. But it would also mean that Sele’ was willingly releasing her own powers over to her High Queen, for her decision alone. And San'lr'in’ understood that Sele’ was giving this decision over to her, as it meant that Sele’ would be completely without powers until The High Queen decided to return them to her, if ever.
"You place the burden of this decision upon Me, Young One?"
"It is truly your decision to make, High Queen."
"What is this Circle of Power, my Queen?"
San'lr'in’ was yet deep in thought, but looked at her sister. Finally, she explained, “The Future Supreme Sovereign has offered her punishment to Me. She has suggested that I remove her powers completely from her until the moment I think they should be returned."
Sam shrugged, not understanding the full meaning of it, “Is this truly a punishment?"
The Healer responded, “Indeed. Most severe. To remove her powers from her is similar to removing your eyes from you. She was born with these powers and knows no way to function without them. It will be as if she stands naked and blind in The Realm."
All were stunned at such a possible punishment, but waited silently, wondering what The High Queen would do. San'lr'in’ felt the weight of this decision fully, realizing it was similar to the same decision she had made with Ann'wn. She knew her answer to the request, but hesitated, knowing she didn't like her own response.
She looked upon the Young One for many long moments, thinking through her decision carefully, not wishing to give further damage to her, but wishing to instill a valuable lesson. Not even Sle'nel’ could guess as to The High Queen's thoughts.
She looked back to the others, “Her offense wasn't given to Me directly, but to the Great Warrior Woman of The Realm and to her Birth-Mother. Do either of you have anything to say prior to My final decision of this request?"
Meera shook her head, “I leave it to you, High Queen."
Sle'nel’ looked sadly upon her, but also shook her head, “I trust you to make the most correct decision for Sele', for you, and for The Realm."
The High Queen closed her eyes for a moment, then re-opened them slowly, “So be it.” She softly chanted a few words in some long-prior language, calling the Circle of Power to her. She placed her hands close together, as if forming a small ball of air within them. After a few short moments, a small glow of light could be seen. As the moments passed, the glow grew more intense and the form of a ball could be seen. The ball was alive with its own energy, pulsing its own heartbeat.
When the Circle of Power was completely formed, she let go of it, allowing it to remain in the air where she had left it. She looked at the others, and to Sele', “I agree to this request. The Young One's powers will be safely stored within the Circle of Power until our trust has been restored in her."
She sighed, then looked fully upon Sele', “I do this not for the punishment it will so strongly feel as, but for the knowledge this lesson will provide to you. The Mystics and humans of this Realm know little of such powers, and struggle across their lifespans without such abilities. These powers are as great a gift as they are as heavy a responsibility. You are the first Mystic to be born fully aware of these powers. As such, you know nothing of what it means to be without them, what it means to have to draw them to you, or what it means to never have them. It also means you rely overly on their usage, seeing them as nothing special. This must not be so."
She brought the Circle of Power in front of her, examining it, “Never prior have I called this power to Me. I hope I call it back soon to return these powers to you. You stand as special in this Realm, Young One. Good or bad, your path has been set for you. While some will envy this, it comes with a most heavy of burdens. It requires that you remain ever strong and perfect, an impossible feat, but one for which you must strive. The trust that all will come to place in you must be re-justified upon every turn, without fail. Your strength must never waiver. Your choices must always be correct. And your decisions be fair, yet uncompromising in their dedication to The Realm. You must learn to never compromise your position. It is not the powers that make the leader, Sele'm'tinel'ti'non'n. It is the way in which a leader uses those powers that all will remember. Who you are as a leader without powers should be more telling than who you are as a leader with powers."
She came close to Sele', then crouched down to her, “I care not for punishment, and you have already had enough of it. But I do care that you see The Realm as it is in its true nature. You already rely overly on your powers. While this will ultimately become far better than I can now do, you must also know what it is to be without them. The decisions you make without the powers should be the same as the decisions made with the powers. If you had no powers, Young One, could you have made the same decision this turn?"
"No, my Queen."
"You would have had to take the action yourself, and that is the point. Your powers are meant to be used by you as your own decision, not for another to take on the responsibility of their consequence. The consequence of using a power is yours alone. So, I agree to your request only so that you may truly experience what it is to take the consequence for your own actions. When this is learned, tell Me, and your powers will be fully returned to you. I have no desire or need for your powers, on this you can trust."
"I do trust this to be so, my Queen."
She stood, yet looking at Sele', “The Realm is a harsh teacher, and I am truly sorry that you must learn this overly young. But your powers are great and must be earned and used well for your subjects, not on them.” She looked up at the stars and the moon, “I hope that by the passing of three moons from now, we will look upon you with your powers and our trust in you fully restored."
"Yes, my Queen. I will be diligent toward this goal."
"Place your hands on the Circle of Power, Sele'm'tinel'ti'non'n, and show all who now sit before you that you come fully to The Realm, willing to take on its harsh consequences."
Sele’ placed her hands on the Circle of Power as San'lr'in’ chanted a few words over it. The High Queen then placed one hand on Sele's head and her other hand on the Circle of Power. While no one could see anything occur, both Sele’ and The High Queen could feel the surge of power that left Sele', as her powers moved into the Circle of Power. The High Queen removed her hand from Sele's head, then placed the Circle of Power fully within her own hands. She said another short chant, and the Circle of Power began to disappear, moving back into her.
When it was over, she looked at Sele', “See this not as a punishment, Sele'm'tinel'ti'non'n, but as a challenge to you. Face this challenge as the leader you are meant to be. This is the first of many tests now before you. Grab it fully to you. Learn from it. Take it on willingly. Allow yourself not to fall into the depths of self-pity. Be brave and stand tall in this challenge, as if you do this, all will begin to regain their trust of your abilities."
She crouched down to her once more, looking into her eyes, “Show us the Sele'm'tinel'ti'non'n you want to be, Young One. Defy our present thoughts of you. Defy the dark powers. Show us that your powers are less important than the Supreme Sovereign who stands before Me. Show Me that you can be greater without your powers than you can be with them. Show Me this, Sele'm'tinel'ti'non'n. Can you do this for Me? Can you do this for yourself? Can you do this for all The Realm?"
Sele’ was crying softly, but maintaining. She felt alone and abandoned without her powers, but she returned The High Queen's look, and tried to stand tall before her, “Yes, my Queen. I will do so."
San'lr'in’ nodded, “It is done. Master Apprentice Ern'seln'. I give you charge over our Future Supreme Sovereign. She faces a most difficult of tasks, and will need your full support and guidance. I expect much patience from you in this regard, but also much strength in helping her to remain on her path. Upon each turn, you are to help her through her first three meditations. Only these, as she will now be unable to go any further. Even now, the first three meditations will be most difficult for her. And upon each turn, you are to teach her the Master's ways in the sword, remembering that she has no powers to match yours, and that her body is yet overly young."
Ern'seln’ knelt and bowed her head, “Yes, Great High Queen. To your will."
Sle'nel’ had accompanied Sele’ to her shelter, with Ern'seln’ directly behind. She quietly helped prepare Sele’ for bed, knowing that Sele’ needed some comfort from her, “How are you feeling, Birth-daughter?"
She sniffled, “I am embarrassed, and sad."
Sle'nel’ wiped her tears, “You need to place these events away from your mind and look to your new challenges."
"I am frightened, Birth-Mother. I feel overly abandoned without my powers."
"What would your High Queen do?"
"She would face it bravely."
Sle'nel’ smiled and nodded, “She would. Most bravely. As you must now do."
"I am not like her."
"None of us should be as another. You need to become who you are. The best of who you are."
"But I make overly many mistakes. I have never seen or heard High Queen make a mistake."
"Perhaps we should ask her about this, as I would wager that she has upon many moments."
"You do?"
"Everyone makes mistakes. Everyone, without exception. I am just gladdened that you are making yours while you are yet young."
"I fear I will be able to contribute little during this moment of no powers, and I have become most useful in helping High Queen."
"Even she will have to manage differently now, Sele', as will you. But the moments will pass by more quickly than you can imagine, and then your powers will be restored to you. But by then, you may no longer recognize them."
"I cannot imagine as such, Birth-Mother. If your eyesight were taken from you, and then returned to you six moons later, would you not welcome it back?"
Sle'nel’ sighed, “I would, as you say, but I would have also learned other ways as well that I would hope I wouldn't lose. Perhaps my sense of hearing and smell would become much more powerful. And you will also develop other senses in this regard that may become most useful to you later."
Sele’ hugged Sle'nel', “I will sleep because of the comfort you have given, Birth-Mother. But I am sorry for what I did and for what I said to you and High Queen. I shouldn't have said such things."
"She is not your Birth-Mother, Sele'. You must always remember this. She is High Queen and is vowed to protect The Realm from all possible danger."
Sle'nel’ made certain that Sele’ was prepared for bed, then left, returning to her lover. She thought that Sele’ would manage for the next few moons, but hoped that it wouldn't be overly easy for her, as she needed to always remember this moment.