Chapter V The Dark Sorcerer

San'lr'in’ was kneeling beside Sle'nel', in their tent, “Do you recall our journey through the Sorcerer's Forest, My Desire?"

"Some. Not much. Was it terrible?"

"Thankfully, we are through with it. She brushed some hair away from Sle'nel's face, touching her forehead lightly, “You are so beautiful. How is it that I was fortunate enough to capture your attentions?"

Sle'nel’ laughed, beginning to look tired, “It must be your red hair. I find it irresistible. Are you coming to lie down?"

"In a moment, My Desire."

The High Queen was tired from their journey through the forest but could feel the Dark Sorcerer search for her thoughts, most displeased with his ability to do as such. She waited for Sle'nel’ to fall asleep from the sleeping spell. Once Sle'nel’ was asleep, The High Queen quietly said, “Forgive Me, My Desire. I cannot risk you on the Dark Sorcerer.” She lay down next to Sle'nel', hoping the eve would be a quiet one.

When she awoke in the morn, Sle'nel’ was already risen. The High Queen rose, opened the tent flap to her attendants, and prepared for the turn, “Have Sle'nel’ brought to Me."

After some moments, Ann'wn and Meera arrived. They only bowed their heads instead of kneeling, a sign The High Queen knew well, “Tell Me."

They looked worried, “The Elf, Caitha, and The Healer are missing, Highness."

Her heart and mind rose suddenly to a shrill peak of desperation, the intensity of the knowledge stabbing her in the heart, “Missing? Have you searched for them?"

He has them! By the mothers, please tell Me this is not so.

"Yes, my Queen. We found their boot prints to the horses, then their horses’ trail, but they must have left just after the late eve. We will need to ride hard to catch them."

NO!

She fought to control her raging fear, “All three? Together? Prior late eve?” The thought of such brought her emotions blazing forward.

Ann'wn nodded, “Yes, my Queen."

She frowned, narrowing her eyes, turning angrier than she could ever prior recall, “The Dark Sorcerer. I thought I had prepared Sle'nel’ for such.” She turned and looked at the ground, seeing Sle'nel's staff, bow and arrows, “They are without weapons."

"Yes, Highness. All three seem to have gone together, without weapons."

"Gather a small group. Bring The High Queen's sword, and the Elf's staff. We must leave quickly. Do you know where they head?"

"Not yet, Highness, but I have trackers on it."

She kept her worst fears to herself, “Let us depart."

"I go with you, Sister."

She looked at Sam, then nodded.

She had the attendants place on her necklace of red stones and crown, tied the pouch with the large red stone to her sword belt, and picked up Sle'nel's staff. She took her long cloak and headed for her horse. Ann'wn handed San'lr'in’ her High Queen's sword, “No, Force Leader, I have much need of The First High Queen's sword."

Suddenly, she heard, “High Queen?"

She turned to the quiet barely-known voice and looked upon her, “I must depart, Young One."

"Look for them in the red-stoned rock-face. In the caves. Well east of here."

San'lr'in’ studied her for a moment, “You are a Seer?"

The young girl she had saved in the Grandmother's dwelling nodded.

The High Queen sheathed her sword as Ann'wn handed it to her. She studied the young girl for another moment, placed a hand gently on her cheek, then suddenly turned back to her Force Leader, “Come. We must fly like the wind if we are to save them."

Ann'wn was awed with The High Queen's apparent calm resolve. She felt sickened, knowing that her own lover was in deep jeopardy at the moment, so didn't know how The High Queen remained without emotion. She couldn't know how angry The High Queen was with herself as they left.

How stupid I was to think that a mere sleeping spell would have kept My Elf safe.

She blamed herself for the occurrence, but kept thinking, Please let them be kept safe from his terrible harm.

Her rage was so intense that she could barely breathe. Her muscles were rigid in their tenseness from the extreme emotion of wrath that now consumed her, her teeth clenched tightly together. She struggled against it, knowing she had to remain in control of her emotions, knowing she had to keep hope strongly to her, but the rage was unyielding in its incessant and unrelenting torrent. Her entire being wanted to erupt in fury, but she found only herself in which to be angry.

She placed on her cloak's hood then looked at Ann'wn, “Is all in readiness?"

"Yes, my Queen."

Meera came up to San'lr'in', “Highness? If he has harmed them in...” She couldn't find the words to complete her thought.

San'lr'in’ well knew the hopelessness that Meera was feeling, but had to force herself away from such. Amongst all of them, and in spite of Sle'nel’ being among the kidnapped, The High Queen knew that she needed to provide the leadership necessary to retrieve their lost ones, “Let us just rescue them prior to him killing them, Warrior Woman."

She turned to Ann'wn, “Ride hard, Force Leader. We must catch up to them prior to him expecting us to do so."

They rode as quickly as their horses could run, following their trackers’ trail. Ann'wn had An'ther'on lead them, and she rode next to The High Queen. Ann'wn had brought her most skilled warriors with her. Among those now riding with her were Meera, Sam, Fon'elnn', Uthrn, and the bravest of all Ann'wn's other warriors. She watched The High Queen carefully, knowing that she must be concerned over Sle'nel', Caitha, and her Healer's capture, but was amazed that she showed no outward signs of it. Yet, throughout the entire journey, she saw that her Queen hadn't said one word to anyone, nor had she looked around. But she did notice The High Queen's deep frown and narrowed eyes.

If he has killed them, even D'klr'dil will think her life as blessed in comparison to what this one will suffer.

By just after midturn, they had reached the point where their trackers could find no further tracks. Ann'wn rode forward and spoke with them briefly. As she waited, The High Queen looked up into the sky and gave a soft whistle, hoping that she would receive a reply. Ann'wn rode back to her Queen.

"They have lost the trail, Highness."

"I am astounded they were allowed to travel this far with it. He must be over-using his powers, and weakening, or he would have hid it long prior."

Then she thought to herself, Either that or he is preoccupied with his new amusements.

"Should we separate to see if we can re-find the trail, Highness?"

"Give Me a moment, Force Leader. Let the others dismount until I am ready to depart."

After a few moments, she heard the hoped-for reply. Her great raptor was flying to her. She looked around at the skies but per usual, she couldn't see her until the last moment. She held out her arm and waited. Suddenly, she saw the great raptor come swooping down to her, finally landing gently upon her arm. Ann'wn watched from a short distance away, wondering what her Queen was saying to the large bird. She watched as the bird departed, then looked at her Queen, guessing they would now leave.

The High Queen dismounted and stood slightly apart from all as she went into her meditations.

"My Queen?"

Ann'wn seldom interrupted her meditations, “What is it, Force Leader?"

"May I have your leave to begin our search while you enter into your meditations?"

She tried to control her impatience enough to explain, “Force Leader, I do these not for My amusement. I do these now to find them. It is the quickest way in which to do so and will save us many moments, if I am allowed to complete them. I know what I do, Force Leader."

Ann'wn looked lost and well saddened, “Yes, my Queen.” She turned and walked away.

The High Queen sensed her deep brokenness, “Ann'wn."

She turned back, “Yes, my Queen?"

"I blame Myself for their kidnapping and want them returned even more than you. I am desperate in this search, but cannot show this to you. Do you understand this?"

"I think so, my Queen. I just need to keep as busy."

"We will leave as soon as I find where he has taken them. Understand this, Force Leader. I am in deep fury at this, but I must take great caution to make no mistakes this turn, as one mistake could cost us their lives. We must make certain so that we lose no moment in finding them."

"Yes, Highness. We will be ready when you are."

When San'lr'in’ achieved the meditation she desired, she looked carefully across The Realm's lands, searching for signs of her lover, her Storyteller, her Healer, or the Dark Sorcerer. She began her search close by, then slowly and painstakingly worked her way outward, remaining patient and thorough, knowing she had no moments for mistakes; knowing she had to find them.

After much careful searching, her mind finally saw something, There! As the Young Seer has said.

As The High Queen finally came out of her meditations, she saw that Fon'elnn’ had entered into the Master's meditations. Ann'wn listened as they spoke quietly to each other.

"Did you find him, Master?"

"It being most difficult, but I thinking he being held up in the Great Rock Face. Another half-turn to a turn's riding."

"I felt the same. Allow him not into your thoughts, Master."

"No, my Queen. And you must remaining masked as well."

"Do you know the way?"

"Yes, my Queen."

"Then guide us with all haste, Master. Make it less than a half-turn's ride."

She bowed, “My Queen."

The High Queen returned the bow to Fon'elnn', then turned and went to her horse, mounting as she spoke, “We depart, Force Leader. We must move quickly so that he has little opportunity to kill his captives. Head northeast of here. Fon'elnn’ can lead the way. We will hopefully arrive at sun's set, and will face him at that moment, as he won't expect us until well past midturn next."

They rode as swift as lightning, each becoming more worried with each passing moment. For each of them, the moments passed by as if the moments in The Realm had slowed to a screaming crawl. As the sun's set had long-prior occurred, The High Queen finally saw the large rock structure that she had felt in her mind.

He is there. I can feel him.

She desperately wanted to know if Sle'nel’ and the others were safe, but knew she couldn't risk him being able to detect her thoughts. They rode until they were near enough, remaining well hidden in the surrounding forests. Fon'elnn’ halted them at the edge of the forest where the empty expanse began up to the large rock-face. It would only take a few moments to achieve the rock, but she hadn't yet found the cave's opening. Fon'elnn’ dismounted and motioned that everyone was to remain silent.

The High Queen's great raptor called from overhead. The High Queen gave a soft whistle, then held out her arm. For many moments, the raptor and The High Queen seemed to communicate, then the raptor flew off, back into the skies far away from their eyesight.

The High Queen had learned what she needed to know, “They are here. He has many guards about him within the entryway.” She sighed deeply, heavy with emotion, “They have been here since the early morn."

A sky of brilliant stars and a bright partial moon had risen with the sun's set, so Fon'elnn’ informed Ann'wn and the others that they would wait until cloud covering or until moon's set. San'lr'in’ was anxious to get inside and save her lover from the Dark Sorcerer, but saw the bright moon. Using the lightest spell possible so as to remain undetected by the Dark Sorcerer, she made some clouds to visit their portion of the sky.

* * * *

"What will it be, Elf? You or one of them?"

Sle'nel’ looked at the Dark Sorcerer, remaining silent. She studied his movements and his thinking, trying to waste the moments. As she did, she knew that San'lr'in’ and the others would already be on their way. She knew that if they could be found and if The High Queen could arrive before he killed them, San'lr'in’ would save them.

I know they come.

"You think they will be able to save you prior to your death, Elf?” He laughed, “Don't be as foolish as this. We are well hidden. Even with her powers, she will take at least another turn to find us."

She looked into his eyes, wondering how strong his powers really were.

He laughed absent mindedly and spoke to himself, “And then she will be mine."

Sle'nel’ was trying to remain alert, but wished she could lie down. He had beaten her badly throughout the long turn, and displayed no signs of halting. She struggled to keep her mind in full awareness. He had yet to use his powers since their forced arrival, choosing to physically beat them instead. She wondered about this, wondering if he had been over-using his powers. She glanced over to The Healer, feeling sorry for her. The Healer had been beaten, then knocked unconscious. The Dark Sorcerer had then thrown her harshly down upon the cold stone floor, leaving her to her own resources.

At least she is yet alive.

"Yes, Elf. She is. It is you who will die, and soon. But I have at least until the late-morn, as there is no chance that they could track us here prior to this. They must first find us. So I have the full eve to have my pleasure with the three of you. And I have always wondered what it would be like to be with an Elf. You know of course that I am part R'kin'dles. And they always desire two things—to be with an Elf, and to kill an Elf. I will be able to do both, most honored High Sorcerer. And with your death, the Elves will never again return to The Realm, and I will become High Sorcerer."

"Others will find a way to return the Elves to The Realm."

He raised his hand and struck her backhanded, with full force, “I care not for your responses, Elf. I much prefer you silent."

She had lost track of the many moments he had hit her on the side of the face, yet she tried to remain defiant. There was little else she could do, as her arms and legs were shackled tightly against the wall.

San'lr'in'. We need you.

She let her head lower for a moment to give it a chance to clear. She could feel blood running down her badly swollen cheek and neck and feel her head pound, but gave little attention to them. She risked a glance toward Caitha. Like The Healer, Caitha had also been beaten and knocked unconscious, but he had yet to do anything else to her.

Suddenly, his tone became angry, “Where is your staff? You were to bring it with you!"

She licked her lips, tasting blood and needing water. She felt thirsty and wondered how much blood she had lost, “Apparently, it didn't follow. Your spells must be weaker than you believe them to be."

He hit her again, harder upon this moment, “Insolence will cost you, Elf. Where is your staff? I must have it!"

Her head and jaw hurt from the blows to her face, but she displaced the pain as the Sorcerer Women had taught her. She could barely see out of her left eye, “You are the one to bring me to you. I was unaware that I came. How was I to know to bring it? Did you give it a personal invitation?"

He stared at her, fully angry at the moment, but suddenly smiled as he hit her again. She could see that he delighted in causing pain to others, but she also saw that his moods swung widely within a short span. She thought that if she saw him as an ordinary stranger, she might think him alluring, but couldn't now find it within herself to think any kind thoughts of him. She had woken from whatever trance he had placed upon her, tied to the wall, and to the sight and sound of the beatings he had placed upon The Healer. As he beat The Healer, pounding her relentlessly, finally smashing her head solidly upon the stone floor, Sle'nel’ became sickened as she saw him smiling wickedly with each blow.

Looking at him now, his smile sent shivers of revulsion throughout her body. He was pleased that he could stir such emotion, “You are a most beautiful woman, Elf. Not as beautiful as some of the prior Elves I used to know, but more beautiful than any Mystic I have seen in this era. The High Queen is lucky to have such as you. I wonder if she will desire you after I have had my fill of you. But I think I will have some fun with the Storyteller prior to you. She also is quite beautiful."

Up to this moment, the Dark Sorcerer had focused most of his attentions on Sle'nel', and she wanted it to remain this way. She had never prior thought herself as brave, but couldn't stand the thought of having to see and hear her friends being beaten or tortured. She had seen Caitha and The Healer being beaten, and it had been enough. She forced herself to remain alert so that she could keep his attentions focused only upon her, “You have knocked her unconscious. She will be of little use to you."

He sneered at her, his voice taunting and filled with evil, “How very brave of you, Elf. You would risk yourself to save your friends. I would tell you not to bother. You are all to die, anyway. It is to be my gift to your Great High Queen as she steps into this cave."

"You must be quite stupid to believe she will allow as such. You think your powers are stronger than hers?"

She knew she had to make him mad enough so that he remained focused upon her rather than Caitha or The Healer. And she knew that she had to give her Queen enough moments to arrive. She had no doubts that San'lr'in’ would arrive and would defeat this most vile creature; she just hoped it would be while they were yet alive. The Healer moaned, and the Dark Sorcerer turned to her. Sle'nel’ thought quickly, trying to keep his attentions upon her.

It was becoming more difficult for her to speak with her cheek as swollen as it was, “Why do you want the staff? Have you not these powers, already? I was informed that you are the greatest of all the sorcerers in our era."

He looked back at her, his eyes narrowed, yet his ego slightly inflated, “I am, in truth. But your staff holds some powers that have remained elusive to me."

"Which ones?"

He sneered at her, yet interested in the conversation, “And wouldn't you just love to know."

She took a guess, “The Elves wouldn't give you these powers, then?"

He hit her again. She could tell he was thinking of other matters, as the blow wasn't as hard as the others had been. Yet, her pain was great as he hit her solidly upon her already badly beaten and swollen face. She struggled through the pain, and struggled to keep him focused on her, “I didn't think the staff could work for anyone but the one who spoke with the Sorrows."

"I have ways to make you give me these powers. It can be done. And I have much need of these powers."

"Why? So you can inflict yourself and your tortures onto all those who would oppose you?"

He sneered at her again, “Is that not the way of the ones who conquer? It is the same across all battles. You, of all the others, cannot be this naïve.” Suddenly, without any warning, his mood shifted yet again, “Tell me, Elf. Do you find me appealing?"

"What does it matter to you? You take what you want with little regard to this."

"I take what I am due!” He had been angered at her statement, but she couldn't guess as to why.

"Due? You shouldn't even be in this era. You are from another."

Ignoring her, he came up close and ran his thumb roughly across her swollen and bleeding lip. He then placed the tip of his thumb in his mouth, “Hmmm ... the taste of Elfin blood is most exciting."

He traced the outline of one of her breasts roughly, allowing himself to be moved in his need and urgency. She could see that his breathing was becoming more rapid as his excitement grew. She readied her body for the moment he would remove her from the shackles. He placed both his hands on her breasts, squeezing hard. The pain increased, but she remained silent, trying to show no emotion.

Suddenly, he ripped her shirt apart, exposing her breasts, “Beautiful."

She closed her eyes and thought of her Queen, She will come. I know this is so. I know it!

The Healer stirred, looking back at Sle'nel'. She lay upon the floor confused, but seeing that the sorcerer was placing his attentions onto Sle'nel'.

Without turning to The Healer, he said, “Remain as you are, Healer, or you will die sooner."

The Healer tried to remove the pain from her body, but was overly confused from her head injury to know where to begin. She concentrated upon the moment, focusing upon her pains. She knew that her face was swollen and bruised from the beatings, that her head was bleeding from being smashed against the floor, that it hurt to breathe, and that her right arm was most likely broken. She began with her head.

Caitha had woken a few moments prior, but had remained as she was, waiting for the correct moment. She guessed that he might know she was awake, given his sorcerer abilities. She wondered when her lover and The High Queen would arrive.

"I think this the moment for our pleasures, Elf."

She spat into his face, “You disgust me."

He looked at her, frowning, then leered, “Have you ever lain with another while standing, Elf?” He laughed manically, then pulled out his sword and placed it into the fire. After a few moments, he removed the red-hot sword, unbuttoned his pants, then began his tortures and pleasures on the Elf.

* * * *

As the clouds finally covered the moon, San'lr'in’ prepared herself. She had sensed into the cave enough to know that Sle'nel’ and the others were yet alive, but also knew that they were badly beaten and were being tortured. She tried placing her raging anger aside to ensure that she could win this battle, and to ensure Caitha and the others remained alive, then called Ann'wn to her.

Whispering, she said, “Do you see the cave's entrance?"

Ann'wn nodded.

"There will be many guards inside. It will be up to you to disable them. I will enter first."

"But My Queen, they will see—"

"I will hide myself. I will go unseen by them."

Ann'wn nodded, not understanding.

She looked at Ann'wn, knowing of what they would find once in the cave, “Prepare yourself, Force Leader. They have been badly beaten, but are alive."

She saw Ann'wn tense. She placed a hand upon her shoulder, “Be brave. It is what they will need from us."

Ann'wn nodded, but now with a tear in her eye. The High Queen looked over to Fon'elnn', trying to keep herself distant from the emotions that now haunted her Force Leader. She tried to hold her consuming rage within her for a few more moments, nodded to Fon'elnn', then to Ann'wn, and they all ran silently to the cave's entrance. At the entrance, The High Queen whispered a soft spell, masking herself from view. Ann'wn could barely make out her form, seeing that her Queen had become mostly invisible, blending perfectly into the cave.

Not knowing that her Queen had moved close to her, Ann'wn jumped as The High Queen whispered in her ear, “Give Me a few long moments, Force Leader. I must arrive to the Dark Sorcerer prior to you making any noise, or he may kill them prior to My arrival."

Ann'wn nodded, knowing that her High Queen had left, but only by the sight of her boot prints in the dirt. San'lr'in’ entered the cave, moving as quickly but silently as possibly. While the guards couldn't see her, she didn't want to give away her presence to the Dark Sorcerer. As she neared the Dark Sorcerer's location, she cringed as violent torrents of rage exploded through her body when she heard Sle'nel's agonized demented screams.

She forced herself to swallow the bile and moans that threatened to escape from her, By the mothers, help Me save her.

With no doubt, she well knew what the Dark Sorcerer was doing to Sle'nel’ to cause such sounds of tortured terror.

She fiercely fought the internal rage that struggled so violently to burst free from her. She called all her powers to her, then silently unsheathed her sword and touched the stone in her pouch, This is the moment, Great Red Stone. Enhance My powers, as I have great need of them.

Remaining invisible used much of San'lr'in's strength, but she risked it until she reached the room where the screams were coming from. She entered into the large room, quickly assessing the situation, seeing that they were all yet alive, but also seeing that the Dark Sorcerer was now torturing Sle'nel', who was hanging limply from her shackles. She briefly noticed Sle'nel’ was trying to remain conscious, and trying not to scream out her great pain as he placed the tip of the red-hot sword well into and through the side of her knee.

San'lr'in’ undid her cloak, allowing it to drop to the floor, then used her eager powers to knock him well away from Sle'nel'. Fully enraged with barely controlled fury, she used her powers to throw him with the greatest of forces against the far wall. She heard a satisfying ‘thud’ as his body hit hard against the wall, and an even more satisfying groan of pain, and took the brief moment prior to his recovery to try to comfort her Elf. She placed her hand on her lover's head and sent her some strength and hope.

Sle'nel’ raised her head and looked at her, trying to smile, but unable to do so. Her face was now overly swollen to speak any further, but she tried, “Than'rn'...?"

The pain in Sle'nel's face and eyes made The High Queen's wrath burst, but while mixed in the extremes of emotion, she smiled tenderly at her lover, “We have arrived, My Bright Star."

As she spoke, she made a slight motion with her hand, undoing Sle'nel's shackles, helping her fall softly to the cave's floor. She covered her Elf's well tortured yet mostly exposed body with her cloak, seeing blood escape from her private areas, then returned her complete attentions to the Dark Sorcerer. She understood well the tortures that had caused that blood.

Her rage began to surge forward, Now you suffer for these acts.

He had just managed to stand, sending a spell to her. She countered it, thinking it was a pitiful attempt on his part, hoping this was an indication that she had injured him. He picked up his sword and moved toward her.

He halted for a moment, “I didn't think you could arrive as quickly as this. But not soon enough, my red-haired lovely. While you have ruined my surprise for you, you did allow me the moments to have my pleasures with your treasured ones."

The High Queen forced herself to remain distant from this knowledge, but could feel her wrath at the very end of her fingertips, as her boiling hot hate rose up to her throat. She loathed him for what he had done, but could sense that he told the truth—he had his pleasures with Sle'nel'. She refused to allow her hate to engulf and force her into carelessness. She said nothing, knowing it would give away her anger, focusing intently on his actions, instead. She raised her sword and prepared herself to kill him.

"You are quite exceptional, my San'lr'in'thel'ineln', as our grandmother said. I believed her, but only mildly so, and now find myself fully captivated by your appearance."

She ignored his words, looking upon him carefully, sensing his powers. She could feel that they were stronger than she had first guessed. She motioned again with her hand, trying to throw him against the wall once more, but guessing that it wouldn't work on him upon the second attempt.

He raised his own hand, halting the spell just prior to it unleashing upon him. San'lr'in’ could see that he easily cast off the spell, “You called the former High Queens to you. A smart move, considering."

His words began to irritate her, “I care not at all for your thoughts."

He ignored her statement, “And your guard killed Grandmother. How sad for me.” He tried to look sad for a moment, then brightened, casting away his prior thought as if nothing, “Oh well, she was overly greedy and would have insisted I return the favors."

"I should have guessed that you learned from her."

He laughed, “I quite enjoy being in your realm, but enjoy it more because of your presence. I have watched you from afar since my return to The Realm. You are most exceptional."

She used another power, this one slightly stronger than the prior, testing his strength and abilities. As prior, he countered it easily.

He laughed again, “You are no match against me, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. My sorcery is much stronger than yours and The First High Queen's powers. Even Drn'rn'thel'ineln’ was no match for me. Perhaps you remain unaware as to the strength of my sorcery. I have seen the sorcerers in this era and find them pitifully weak and useless. I am stronger than you and all the prior The High Queens."

She reminded herself, Careful. Don't grow careless. Discover his weaknesses. Don't allow him to know of your true strength.

He stood gazing at her, into her eyes, trying to discover her secrets. She found his gaze and presence hypnotizing, but found him overly assured of his own abilities, easily casting aside his attempts to overtake her mind. She studied him for a moment, seeing that he was at least two-heads taller than she stood, with shiny black hair that hung freely down his back. As she examined him fully, she found herself unexplainably allured by his eyebrows that fully captured her attention, even away from the sparkle of his bluest of blue eyes, even bluer than Sam's. She distanced herself away from his forced presence, avoiding the charm he used so well to captivate and control his prey.

"You are truly astonishing, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. I stand stunned in your presence. Although I must say, it was truly wonderful to take my pleasures with your Elf."

She fought to ignore his statement, feeling her body tense at the words. She knew that the long-prior sorcerers were powerful beyond anything now in The Realm, but guessed that he hadn't yet realized that she had been given many more powers than all the prior High Queens. She prepared herself to use his ignorance to her advantage, while she momentarily touched the large red stone.

He will lose because of his arrogance. This is one of his weaknesses.

She pushed his statement aside, “Release your powers to Me. I would then assure your safety in this realm for the duration of your pitiful lifespan."

"How very generous of you, High Queen. But your powers are no match for mine, even though I sense that you are well more powerful than your First High Queen, Drn'rn'thel'ineln'. And she wasn't nearly as beautiful as you. It will be a pity to have to kill you. Join me, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. Join me so that I don't have to kill such beauty as yours. Drn'rn'thel'ineln’ seemed to enjoy my companionship, or shall I say offerings, quite well. I would strive to please you."

Using another small power, she sent a ball of fire at him, testing his strength. He repelled it, but not as easily as prior. She took careful note of his abilities.

"Your self-involved talk is tedious."

She heard Caitha and The Healer moan, and saw that Sle'nel’ was more injured than she had first thought, but once again forced herself to remain distant from them, keeping the main task at-hand. She fought against her rage as she fought against the Dark Sorcerer, refusing to lose to neither. But it was taking all her strength and powers to do so.

"Your Elf cannot give you what I can, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. I can take away all your responsibilities for you. No longer will you have to take on this burden. Although I must say, the Elf does manage to give a considerable amount through her pleasures. I could not get enough of moving strongly into her. Each moment with her was better than the prior. The feeling was like no other.” He leered at her, “But you know well of this, don't you, my Love."

Her eyes narrowed at the thought of what he had done to Sle'nel', but she resisted the urge to attempt to kill him at this moment, choosing to wait until she could be certain of his defeat. She knew he was taunting her, but felt as if her rage were about to burst out of her skin.

Don't risk this loss. You must not lose this battle. Your moment will come.

She took great care to make no mistakes with him. She studied him more carefully, wondering as to why he despised the Elves so.

"Tell me, Sorcerer. Are you related to Sume'n'tinel'ti'non?"

"I am related to all three of you, including your eldest sister. But she is far removed from your beauty and hasn't the powers you possess."

She took a guess, “You are a R'kin'dles."

He held out his arm, and his staff came flying to him. With great anger, he said, “I am part R'kin'dles, and am vowed to rid The Realm of Elves. They have done nothing but harm to the R'kin'dles."

He held his staff out from him and sent a spell meant to blind her. She held up her sword, using it to repel the spell easily prior to it even touching her. She knew that he was testing her strength.

He laughed, “Your are quick minded, also. I am pleased. You are an able opponent."

She said nothing, but saw that he studied the sword for a moment. His eyebrows rose as he made the connection, his eyes widening in surprise, “How is this possible? How could you have The High Queen's Sword? This sword should have been long-prior buried with Drn'rn'thel'ineln'."

"Quite startling, is it not? Yet, here it is.” She refused to tell him any further of the tale.

"I am surprised, but am pleased as to your abilities. It makes you all the more fascinating ... and desirable."

"I care nothing about pleasing you."

"Have you not the slightest curiosity regarding me, my Love?"

"No."

He wasn't pleased with her answer, seeing that his well-practiced charms were ineffectual against this High Queen. He cast another spell and sent it her way, a spell meant to rid her of Sle'nel's staff. She held out her hand quickly, and as easily as she had prior, cast off the spell.

"You are not as strong as you believe of yourself, Sorcerer."

Quietly and without movement, she called the power of confusion to her, then as quickly cast it upon the Dark Sorcerer. It was a small and mostly insignificant power, but like him, she used it to test his alertness and abilities.

He had been slightly unguarded. The spell confused him for a short moment, and then he cast it suddenly away, “A spell of confusion? You hold sorcerer powers as well, my beauty? I am surprised yet again. This I knew not of you. You are indeed most intriguing."

He sent another spell to her. Instead of repelling it, she took the spell into herself, now owning it. She noted that it had been a spell of turning one into stone. As she took the spell from him, he grew angry.

"You cannot do this. You cannot remove my spells from me!"

"I can if you choose to give them to Me. You have no such an ability, oh mighty one?” She laughed lightly, irritating him even further, but also bewildering him. He wondered if she would be able to do this with each spell he sent to her. Few across all The Realm's eras had such a power as this.

He tried again. As prior, she took the spell as one of her own. She felt that it had been even a stronger spell, as he tried to kill her this moment. She remained well focused, knowing that she was yet learning his limits.

Using his staff, he sent a spell meant to throw San'lr'in’ a long distance, but again she took the spell as her own. Then suddenly, she brought Sle'nel's staff forward and cast a spell of her own, making his staff to fly to her. He hadn't been prepared for the quickness of such a move.

As his staff jerked out of his hand, he screamed, “Nooooooo! Not my staff!"

She grabbed his staff as it flew to her, studied it, then after a brief moment of a quick quiet chant, broke it in half. She looked up quickly, preparing herself for his anger. She saw that he was fully surprised at what she had done, but had picked up a sword again.

"You choose to engage me in a sword dance, Sorcerer?” She could now feel his anger growing against her.

"I am much stronger than you. Prepare to die."

"You are stupid, Sorcerer. And I had thought you to be more intelligent than this."

He lunged at her, thinking her to be mostly unskilled in the sword. She scoffed at his attempt, hitting him on the back with the hilt of her sword as he went flying by her, uncontrolled.

"DON'T LAUGH AT ME!"

He shows his weakness! She laughed, knowing it would anger him further, “But you are pathetic and ridiculous."

She became angered at herself for a brief moment, realizing that she should have killed him upon that moment. But she let her anger depart as quickly, knowing that she could take no risk in this; knowing that when she went to kill him, the moment must be well assured.

He charged at her, bringing his sword down at her with full force. She held it off, then made a few swift moves from her long-prior training, mystifying him with her abilities.

"How do you know of such moves?"

She shrugged as if they were nothing, “These Master moves, Sorcerer? They are just a simple diversion of mine."

He tried again, but as prior she evaded his blows easily, mocking his attempts. He ran over to Sle'nel', holding the sword to her eye, “Here is what I have waited for. Here is my present to you."

Her anger yet trying to break loose, San'lr'in’ cast it aside as she waved her hand slightly, making his sword come flying to her. She caught it, then sent a spell his way, causing him to fall to the floor.

He was now fully engulfed within his own rage against her. He held out both hands and sent a huge flame to San'lr'in', intending to consume her. Using her great powers, she bounced the flame of energy back to him as if it were mere child's play. He caught it, but it had cost him much effort to do so. He then sent another spell to her, trying to kill her by boiling within. The spell caught her off-guard in its strength. She grew angry with herself, knowing that she had sensed the great power within the spell just a brief moment to it causing her to lose.

NO! Be more careful. Think! Prepare yourself.

As she diverted it, he sent yet another spell of a giant poisoned and angry snake. She had to cast another spell onto it swiftly so as to avoid its attack, but did so, sending it back to the Dark Sorcerer. He had to react even more quickly than The High Queen to avoid its venom aimed at him, as her spell had been even stronger.

"You are stronger than I had first imagined."

"I grow weary of you."

She sensed him growing weaker, but also angrier. She knew she would have to act soon prior to his anger being unleashed. She remained cautious, knowing she could make no mistakes with him.

Focus your training. You cannot lose, or all The Realm loses.

They fought between themselves for many more long moments, with her raising the strength at each attempt, testing him. With highly trained focus and skill, she waited for the correct moment as she continued to study his powers and abilities. She realized that all her long hard moments of training were now singularly focused for this moment, only. All her training, all her powers and guile, all her agility, all brought forward for this one test of wills and strength.

Then, Finally. I have you!

As he prepared to send another spell to her, she instantly brought one of the great powers to her, entombing him within a circle of energy.

And suddenly, the fight was over.

He remained as he had been standing, unable to move about; unable to use any of his spells. He was fully imprisoned within the circle. She thought the use of this massive power would weaken her, but was pleased that she yet felt strong. For a moment, she feared that he would be able to undo the spell, but saw that he couldn't, grateful that it held true. After all the tortures, threats, and spells, he was now captured.

She had won.

She hung her head for a moment, Thank you.

She had thought the words, but knew not to whom she said them, just feeling grateful that she had been able to win the long and difficult battle. While she had been far overly concerned for Sle'nel', Caitha and her Healer, she had remained focused upon removing the Dark Sorcerer from The Realm. Finally, after what seemed overly many moments, the Dark Sorcerer was finished.

Prior to this moment, Ann'wn and the others had arrived, after they had searched and disabled the Dark Sorcerer's guards. Now that The High Queen had the Dark Sorcerer safely imprisoned within her powers, Ann'wn motioned the guards to take Caitha, The Healer, and Sle'nel’ away from the cave. Ann'wn winced as she went to The Healer, seeing her well injured and in great pain.

Sam had gone to Caitha and then to Sle'nel', shocked at their condition, “Sle'nel'. Can you hear me?"

Sle'nel’ opened one eye, then whispered, “Sam."

Tears came to Sam's eyes upon seeing how seriously injured her former lover was, “It is over now, Sle'nel'. You are safe.” She placed her hand carefully upon Sle'nel's good shoulder, touching her gently, “I am so sorry we couldn't arrive sooner, Sle'nel'. But we have done much to arrive as soon as this.” She placed her hand gently on Sle'nel's forehead, “I am so grateful that you are alive."

"Than'lr'in'?"

"She is safe. She has defeated the Dark Sorcerer. He has lost."

"Caitha?"

Sam nodded, amazed at Sle'nel's strength and resolve, “She hasn't been seriously injured."

"The Healer?"

Sam shook her head in disbelief of Sle'nel'. Seldom had she witnessed such quality, How could I have let such as her go? She nodded, “She will heal, but has some serious injuries. None such as yours, though."

As The High Queen's guards gently carried the three captives out of the cave, Ann'wn went to her Queen, as did Meera, “We would like to have some moments alone with this one, my Queen, to ensure a most painful of deaths. Our lovers deserve this revenge."

She thought about it for a long moment, uncertain if this should be allowed. She responded softly, “I will give you this after I remove his powers, but with one condition. You must not kill him. He is destined for the Sorrows of the Stones. This will have to suffice, Force Leader."

Ann'wn bowed her head “It is enough, my Queen."

The Dark Sorcerer was begging her, “San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. Leave me not in here. I will give you my powers. I will surrender to you. I knew not you were as strong as this. Please—give me not to the powers of the Stones. Please!"

He had never prior known of such powers that San'lr'in’ had used against him. In all the greatness of his powers, she had finally made him look as a mere child with his spells. He never believed he could lose, but now he was fully halted in his plans and actions, as well as his life. In his era, The High Queen had no such powers as San'lr'in's.

"You surrendered any opportunity for living when you hurt those in My heart. And know this, your powers will be The Realm's even without your consent."

She walked slowly up to his cell of captivity. Fon'elnn’ grew concerned, “High Queen. Releasing not this one. He having many powers. Many. He is not needing his staff."

She raised her hand in acknowledgement but said nothing, yet looking at the Dark Sorcerer, “Your fate finally meets up with you, Brn'stn'gil'. You will now receive your due. I regret that you couldn't use your powers for The Realm, Sorcerer, as they are indeed mighty. But you instead chose to follow the path of darkness."

She motioned slightly with her hand, making the ball of energy to follow her as she walked to the outside of the cave. As she exited the cave, she gave another motion, halting it. The Dark Sorcerer continued to plead to her, wailing in his defeat, to let him live. He begged and begged, but she remained passive and unhearing of his pleas.

Feel nothing. Hear nothing. Remove yourself from all emotions, as you were taught.

She bowed her head, then looked to the sky as she raised her arms. She chanted for a short moment, then touched the circle that held the Dark Sorcerer. All watched as his powers left him, seeing them move into the circle's energy. He screamed as it occurred, never having been without his powers, as she allowed the usual pain that accompanied the transfer. Ann'wn thought that it looked most painful. The High Queen brought Sle'nel's staff to the circle, touching the tip of it slightly to the circle's boundary. The powers transferred silently into the staff, leaving the Dark Sorcerer completely and forever powerless. She looked quizzically at Sle'nel's staff, noticing that it felt somewhat heavier after the transfer of powers, having no such knowledge that spells weighed this much.

Displaying no outward sign of emotion, she motioned to Ann'wn. With a voice so cold in its delivery as to turn warmed blood to ice, she said, “Force Leader. I release him to your care. You and the Warrior Woman have but three turns. If he dies while in your care, you will take his place."

Ann'wn bowed her head, cringing at The High Queen's distant and harsh words, “Thank you, my Queen. He will remain alive.” Meera also winced at the words, never hearing as such from a leader, but believing them fully.

"Should you choose to remove any of his ... ummmm ... parts, keep them close by. The Sorrows will desire all of him. It is their due."

She released the circle of energy from around the now powerless Dark Sorcerer, and Ann'wn took charge of him. As Ann'wn and Meera took him to begin inflicting their tortures upon him, she went to where Sle'nel’ was lying.

She knelt down beside her, aching in having restrained her great rage and guilt, “My Desire. I am sorry I did not arrive sooner."

Sle'nel’ was in much pain, hovering on unconsciousness, but moved her fingers to her lover's lips, taking great comfort in their realness. She said softly, with the greatest of efforts, “You came."

San'lr'in’ looked upon her well-beaten Elf, seeing all the injuries. A tear came to her eye, and her rage and emotions came forward so quickly that she could barely control them, “I am so sorry, My Elf. I should have prevented this. This was My fault. I have failed you."

Sle'nel’ was in immense pain, but placed her hand gently on her Queen's cheek, “No ... You saved us ... But I am no longer desirable."

"WHAT?” Her anger grew at the Dark Sorcerer for causing Sle'nel’ to think as such.

He will suffer for what he did!

"This is not truth. Nothing will prevent My desire of you, My Love. Nothing. Think not these vile thoughts. They are merely of the spells he cast upon you."

She touched Sle'nel's head, touching her softly and with great love, “I am sorry, My Elf. I had only wanted happiness for you. Now you lay here before Me, broken and abused.” She lowered her head, ashamed of herself, “I should have prevented this. Look what he has done to you."

"San'lr'in', I will live. Once the ... pain ... is gone, I will feel ... improved."

San'lr'in’ studied Sle'nel's wounds for a moment, assessing the damage the Dark Sorcerer had inflicted upon her. She touched Sle'nel's head gently, then moved her hands carefully over each wound. She withheld her shock as she discovered each wound, and as she discovered what the Dark Sorcerer had truly done to her lover. He had made a hole from the front of her shoulder clear through to the back of it with something red-hot. He had raped her, most brutally, and she could tell that it had occurred more than once. He had hit her several moments upon her face. He had placed his sword into her thigh, her breast, and her knee. And he slammed her head against something very hard. With all this, her greatest surprise was that Sle'nel’ remained conscious.

As she gave Sle'nel’ some relief from her greatest of pains, and as she began to try to heal some of her greatest of wounds, she heard the Dark Sorcerer screaming from the tortures now being inflicted upon him. She never cared for the sound of torture or the notion of it, but found herself thinking it was his due. She removed herself from the sounds.

"I am going to give you a sleeping spell, My Desire, so that you may rest comfortably. When you awaken, you will feel much less pain."

Sle'nel’ was having great difficulty remaining conscious now, but placed her hand on San'lr'in's arm: “I ... love ... you, my Queen.” She breathed heavily for a moment, with great effort, then spoke softly again, “Remember ... this. I need you."

She sat back, seeing that Sle'nel’ had fallen asleep from the strong sleeping spell. She shook her head, feeling ashamed of herself for allowing such tortures to occur. Escaped tears of uncontrollable anger and sorrow rolled down her cheek, and her lungs no longer wished to breathe. Her lover was beaten beyond recognition, and had been well abused. She felt in awe of this most strong of gentle Elves, knowing she had suffered beyond all endurance levels. The High Queen became enraged with herself, and didn't know what to do with it. She knew that her Elf would no longer be able to abide her. She took one last look at her great love, breathed deeply, then went to help The Healer and Caitha.

I have failed her.

Caitha had been beaten, but was the least harmed of the three. The Dark Sorcerer had knocked her head against the wall, but the impact hadn't cracked the skull. He had kicked her in the ribs, legs and arms, but nothing had been broken. The worse injuries were the blows to her face, but were far from the severe wounds sustained by Sle'nel'. Meera had accompanied The High Queen to Caitha, letting Ann'wn proceed with the tortures of the Dark Sorcerer until The High Queen was finished with Caitha.

The High Queen smiled gently down at her as she removed some of the pain, “You will heal quickly enough, My Singer of Songs. You are strong."

Caitha touched San'lr'in's cheek softly, “I am fine, my Queen, because of Jandra. She saved The Healer and me from even more beatings and tortures from the Dark Sorcerer. She was so brave."

"You are all brave, My Storyteller. None of you yielded to his spells."

She looked sad, “Because of Jandra, my Queen. She remained strong, and showed us how. She took the burden on herself. She kept telling us that you were on your way, even as she was being tortured."

"You were all brave, Caitha. None of you took the path of death. This is not easy."

Caitha began to cry, recounting the tortures and abuse he forced onto Sle'nel'.

Meera couldn't stand it when Caitha cried, “Are you in great pain, Caitha? Is this why you cry?"

Caitha looked sadly at Meera, then to The High Queen, yet crying, “What he did to her, M'Love, I cannot remove from my head. It was the most awful of moments. I could do nothing to help, and yet she willingly let him so that he would leave The Healer and me alone. It is the most awful of memories. Poor, poor Jandra."

The High Queen felt sick with this information, but remained strong, “I know, Caitha. I know. I have already seen our Elf, but you are now free to let these terrible visions go. Sle'nel’ is resting comfortably. I have removed much of her pain, and have begun to help her to heal. I will do more for her after I tend to The Healer. Elves are always this brave, Caitha. We are lucky for their presence."

She touched her hand gently to Caitha's head, removing some of the pain, healing some of the head wound, and completely removing some of the most terrible of memories. She winced as she took the memories into her own, not wanting these terrible images of terror, yet never wanting to forget what her Elf had endured. Her heart felt heavy in its sorrow. She gave Caitha a sleeping spell, then turned to Meera, “You should be proud of her. She suffered much, but remained strong. Tend to her gently, Warrior Woman."

Meera looked down at her Caitha, then to The High Queen, looking sad and lost. The High Queen placed a hand on Meera's shoulder, “I am in truth most sorry for this, My Warrior Woman. I should have prevented as such. But I do not ask your forgiveness in this. It is My blame to bear."

Meera was shocked at the statement, never thinking this to be The High Queen's fault, but as she began to protest, The High Queen turned and left. She went to The Healer's tent, “Bring Ann'wn to Me."

She looked down at The Healer, seeing that she was barely conscious. Her heart recoiled in shock as she saw her former lover as broken and beaten as this.

My poor, poor Healer. I am so sorry.

She touched her hand gently to The Healer's head wound, feeling that the skull had been cracked. She closed her eyes for a moment, sending her healing powers to help heal this terrible wound, using many of her healing powers to do so.

The Healer stirred, “My Queen."

She spoke softly, “Shhhhh, Healer. Rest. You are all alive and now safe. Your head is well injured, so try not to move. I will remove your pain, heal your wound some, and give you a sleeping spell so that you will rest comfortably. You were very brave, My most excellent Healer."

Ann'wn walked in, “My Queen. How does she fare?"

She looked up at Ann'wn, “Wait but a moment while I finish."

She felt The Healer's right arm, feeling that the bone had been badly broken.

"Remain strong, My most valued Healer. I must set your bone."

The Healer screamed, but only for a short moment, as The High Queen quickly sent more healing powers to help the bone begin to heal. She examined the remainder of The Healer's body, finding that The Healer had been kicked on her side, now having two broken ribs. The High Queen helped the ribs to begin their healing process, then removed much of her pain. After securing the broken bones with wrappings, The High Queen was finally completed in her initial healing tasks.

The Healer opened her eyes, “You saved us. Sle'nel’ knew you would. She kept telling us of such."

She could barely speak, but knew that San'lr'in’ now blamed herself for all their injuries, “Not your fault, High One."

She touched her left hand to her Queen's arm, speaking slowly, softly and with great effort, “Sle'nel’ was most brave. How does she fare?"

The High Queen felt more than sickened at the sight of all three of them, all so badly injured, all because of her. She tried to remain strong, smiling tenderly, her eyes slightly misting, yet her sorrow was beginning to consume her, “She is recovering and will heal. We will rest here for a few turns while you mend."

The High Queen placed a strong sleeping spell onto her Healer, needing her to rest, but The Healer tried to continue to speak, “Please, High One. Don't blame yourself. We knew that you woul..."

As she finally fell asleep. San'lr'in’ stood and placed her hand on Ann'wn's cheek, “My Treasured One. In full truth, I am sorry for this occurrence and know that it is My blame, solely. But your lover will heal. My greatest concern is for her head wound, but I have set it to healing. I will check on her later this midturn. She will sleep comfortably."

"Thank you, My Queen, but it is not your blame that—"

But The High Queen had already turned and left, not hearing what Ann'wn now said. She returned to her own lover, checking once again on her great wounds, now sensing into her womb.

Good. She remains barren. He was unable to plant his seed into her.

Whatever he had used to pierce her shoulder had been so hot that it had seared the inside, so little bleeding had occurred. She placed her hands on top of each other, then onto the wound. She closed her eyes and concentrated, sending great healing powers onto the wound, hoping it would help, using many of her powers, and much of her strength. She did the same to Sle'nel's breast and knee, where he had stuck in the tip of his sword. She removed more of her Elf's pain, and saw that Sle'nel’ was now breathing more comfortably. She touched her hand to the Elf's head lightly, removing some of the more painful memories from her, taking them as her own. Her breath left her for a moment as she did so, and her heart all but quit beating, horrified in the learning of the painful tortures that Sle'nel’ had endured.

She well knew that she couldn't endure the same tortures nearly as well.

She examined her for a moment, thinking, I have lost My Elf to the Dark Sorcerer.

These healings took much of her strength, but she didn't care. She gave all she could and used many of her powers, knowing that Sle'nel’ deserved everything she could give. She then stood and looked at her attendants, “She will sleep for a long while. If there is any need of Me, if there is any change, send for Me."

Before the attendants could say anything, she turned and left the tent. Ann'wn, Meera and Sam had all become concerned about their Queen's belief in her own blame, so were having her closely watched. Since Caitha and The Healer would sleep for many moments, Ann'wn remained close to her Queen, worried over her. She watched as The High Queen moved away from all others, moving into her meditations as she so often did, alone, while in her High Queen's Gardens, prior to the Elf.

The High Queen removed herself away from the sounds of The Realm, from the sounds of the ongoing torture of the Dark Sorcerer, I should have known better. I have failed them.

She tried to avoid the meditation she had vowed to avoid, willing herself to remain near The Realm as her punishment for her own stupidity, I knew he would attempt such as this. I should have known better.

I am a fool.

The rescue of Sle'nel', Caitha, and The Healer had taken until the midmorn, so all those who had been on the mission had remained without sleep, including The High Queen. Since she had commanded that they would now remain here for at least three turns while Sle'nel’ and the other two began to heal, Ann'wn sent for the remainder of the travelers. During the turn, Meera, Sam and Ann'wn took turns watching over their Queen and the three injured ones, while The High Queen remained separate from them and all The Realm, unmoving. On various moments, The High Queen would shift from one meditation to another, often returning to her first, crying softly to herself.

Upon each of these moments, whoever was watching over her would go to her, place their hand on her shoulder and say, “It wasn't your fault, my Queen. You saved them."

"Leave Me,” was the only response they got.

Ann'wn became worried, so attempted another strategy. She went to her and said, “My Queen."

"Leave Me."

"The Elf needs you, my Queen. She moaned in her sleep."

The High Queen instantly exited her meditations and went to Sle'nel'. Seeing that she was yet asleep, she removed more of her pain, provided more healing, then returned to her stance and meditations. Throughout the remainder of the turn, Ann'wn used the ruse to keep her Queen within The Realm.

"My Queen."

"Leave Me."

"The Healer is in pain."

Upon each occasion, The High Queen would remove more of their pain and provide more healing of their wounds, growing weaker within herself from doing so. When it came the moment for the eve meal, none could get The High Queen to eat. When it came the moment for sleep, none could get her to remove herself from her meditations. She stood without moving, as she had so often prior done in her gardens. All alone throughout the entire eve, without sleep, without rest.

The morn came, and yet again they couldn't get their Queen to eat. Throughout the turn Ann'wn would force her Queen to remove herself from her distant stance.

"My Queen. It is the moment you tend to Caitha."

"My Queen. It is the moment you tend to the Elf."

"My Queen. It is the moment you tend to The Healer."

In the meanwhile, Sle'nel’ had gained consciousness, but now wondered as to why her Queen wasn't with her. She became as depressed as her Queen.

She no longer desires me.

She no longer can stand the sight of me.

By the end of the second turn, Ann'wn thought that her Queen would be overly exhausted and would choose to sleep. But the same pattern continued.

"My Queen."

"Leave Me."

"You must sleep."

"LEAVE ME."

The third turn came, and yet The High Queen wouldn't listen to anyone, unless it was to tend to Caitha, Sle'nel’ or The Healer. The remainder of their traveling companions had already joined them at the site, and all now just waited until it was the moment to regain their journey.

Ann'wn tried yet another idea, “My Queen."

"Leave Me."

"It is the third turn. This is the turn is which you wished to remove the Dark Sorcerer."

The information was received, and Ann'wn heard only silence in response—a good sign.

The High Queen exited from her meditations, then turned to Ann'wn, “I have need of the High Sorcerer's staff."

"Yes, my Queen. But you look weak."

The comment went ignored, “How fares the torture?"

"Except for the severe head injuries of The Healer, we decided to give him the same tortures he inflicted onto Caitha, The Healer, and Sle'nel', plus a few more."

She grimaced at the thought, thinking of everything he had done to Sle'nel'. “He lives?"

"Yes, my Queen. Fully. He is also fully alert. But crazed from fear of more torture."

"A good lesson to others in The Realm who would desire to follow his example. Lead Me."

Ann'wn led her Queen to where they had the Dark Sorcerer waiting. She could tell that her Queen was well weakened from using all her healing powers, from lack of sleep, and from lack of food. The High Queen moved slowly, looking as if the entire weight of The Realm was upon her. She also hadn't allowed her attendants to tend to her, so she looked very different than her tended norm, her clothes hanging limply upon her.

She walked up toward the Dark Sorcerer, but remained somewhat at a distance. Their eyes met. Barely able to speak from the great pain, he pleaded, “Please, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. Release me from this realm. Have I not suffered enough for my crimes?"

She listened, wondering if she should consider the request. After a moment, she chose to ignore his comments, not wishing to come this close to The Realm as yet.

She turned to Ann'wn, “The staff?"

Ann'wn's guards had retrieved it. She handed it to her Queen, saying nothing.

She studied it, then looked back to Ann'wn, “Have you achieved enough vengeance for your need?"

She looked back onto him as Ann'wn spoke, “He has been tortured throughout the three turns, including the eves. Never was he allowed to rest. Except for the tortures he inflicted onto the three, the tortures were mainly small, but many, so as to keep him alive and well alert. We are well satisfied, Highness."

She observed his now well-abused and exhausted body. Ann'wn, Meera, and all the guards had inflicted so many small tortures upon him that there were very few unused portions of his body remaining. She looked at him more carefully and saw that many parts of him were missing. She looked upon the ground and saw the now rotting parts. She kept herself distant from such, neither wishing to take pleasure in this or to become overly close to the pain.

For three turns she had distanced herself from all her emotions so that she wouldn't go insane from the tortures she knew had been inflicted onto the three. She wondered at the cost of love, now realizing that loving Sle'nel’ had cost Sle'nel’ overly much pain.

I vowed only her happiness. And look at what she has had to endure. She could never wish to be with me again after I allowed as such to occur. I have failed her.

She wondered if her love for the Elf was mere selfishness on her own part. She thought that because of her need for Sle'nel', she had become overly close to her emotions, rather than distant and hard as she had been taught. All this had hurt her closest of companions.

All because of Me.

She looked back up to the Dark Sorcerer, “Your tortures have just begun, Dark One. Now you will go to the Sorrows, where they await you. This is the cost of your crimes.” As she spoke, Ann'wn noticed that she sounded distant and well apart, with no emotion of any kind. A chill swept through Ann'wn at the thought; a warning.

"Have you no sympathy, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'? I know you to be a kind High Queen. Have mercy on me."

She blinked, then softly replied, “There is no mercy for our crimes, Dark One."

She held Sle'nel's staff out away from her side, raised her head to the sky and called the Sorrows of the Stones to her, “Great Sorrows. On behalf of the High Sorcerer, I bid you come. Come and take the most evil of The Realm to you. Take your Vengeance upon him for all of us."

As the dark clouds quickly flew in, and as the winds blew their own vengeance, the Dark Sorcerer watched in total terror as San'lr'in'thel'ineln's eyes and cloak both turned a blood red. He screamed as her hair blew about her as if she were a banshee. As the winds raged and as the clouds thundered their anger, she drove the staff into the ground, just in front of her. Finally released from their captivity, the Sorrows of the Stones came raging out of the staff, circling the Dark Sorcerer. The Sorrows raced toward him in their fury. He screamed as they encircled him within them, making him imprisoned into their realm, then flying furiously back into the staff.

As they were completing their vengeance, The High Queen called to them, “Great Sorrows. I too am as such. Take Me as well."

The Sorrows halted in midair as if examining her. For a moment, nothing moved. The Sorrows then suddenly returned back into the staff, carrying the Dark Sorcerer to his eternal torture. They had considered San'lr'in'thel'ineln's plea, and rejected it.

When they had completed their vengeance, the clouds left and the winds halted. San'lr'in'thel'ineln’ removed the staff from the ground, sensing its slight increase in momentary weight. She closed her eyes for a moment, forcing herself to yet hold her immense rage within. She allowed herself to cry silently for a moment, then breathed deeply. She was disappointed she yet remained within The Realm.

* * * *

Sam stood close by, watching over her sister, now seeing that she was crying. Ann'wn stood in disbelief that her Queen had wished to be taken into the Sorrows of the Stones.

Sam went up to her sister, “They are alive. It is all that matters. They will all recover from this moment."

San'lr'in’ looked at her sister as if confused, then said, “Leave Me."

Sam had watched from a distance for three turns, but had decided that it had been long enough, “No. It is the moment you must return to The Realm. For Sle'nel', if nothing else. You owe her this much, High Queen."

"LEAVE ME!"

Softly, Sam shook her head, “No. You are needed. And you are loved, whether you like it or not. You cannot do this to Sle'nel'. It will surely kill her."

"LEAVE!"

"Sle'nel’ deserves better than this from you. And do you think that I as Highest have never had these issues? You are not special in this regard, Sister."

San'lr'in’ spoke softly, mostly ignoring Sam, “You know not of which you speak. You know nothing of this."

"In spite of her wounds, I saw her love for you. You cannot remain so distant as this. SHE NEEDS YOU!"

Sam's words rang out like a death toll to The High Queen, But she can no longer desire Me.

San'lr'in’ became enraged, no longer strong enough to control or withhold it. She raised her hand toward her sister and began to send a power of rage against her, then as quickly, changed her mind and held it back. She looked at her hand as if it were a stranger to her, then to her sister.

"Leave M..."

Suddenly, her body sagged as she began to fall to the ground, fainting from the mental and physical exhaustion she had inflicted upon herself. Sam caught her and lifted her into her arms, as Ann'wn came running over. The stronger of the two, Ann'wn took The High Queen from Sam, carried The High Queen to her tent, then laid her gently down.

Ann'wn ordered her attendants to tend and watch over The High Queen, then went outside. She looked about her, wishing that The Healer was well, or Caitha, or Sle'nel'. She felt lost without them, and didn't quite know what to do in regard to The High Queen.

She looked at one of her guards and gave an order, “Have the High Counselor brought to me."

The High Queen slept fitfully as the images of Sle'nel', Caitha, and The Healer's tortures played over and over in her mind. Her guilt consumed her.

You have become soft.

No.

Yes. You have failed your teachers.

No!

These three were harmed because of your softness.

I didn't want them to be harmed.

It is your fault.

No!

Yes! You should have prevented this. You are lucky that they didn't die.

Leave Me!

You are to blame, solely.

No. This cannot be truth.

She fought against her demons in her sleep, while yet fully believing it was her fault that Sle'nel’ had endured such depraved acts. She didn't want to see the memories she had taken from Sle'nel’ and the others, yet forced herself to watch them, to feel the pain, to view the tortures slowly, one-by-one, as they had been endured, over and over again.

Watching as the Dark Sorcerer sent the burning red-hot iron very slowly through Sle'nel's shoulder, she saw the Dark Sorcerer laughing as Sle'nel’ screamed from the pain. She smelled the burning flesh; saw the tortured look upon her lover's face. She saw Sle'nel's look of terror and defeat as the Dark Sorcerer raped her over and over again.

"NO!"

The sound of her own terror violently woke her. She sat up and looked around, trying to determine her location. She took note that she was breathing hard and sweating from her eve-visions, then moved closer to Sle'nel’ to examine her wounds.

Good. The wounds are beginning to heal.

She studied her Elf's beautiful but well-injured face, So beautiful, even with all this done to her.

She provided more relief from the pain, and gave yet more of her healing powers to the wounds, then rose and left the tent. The guard had been surprised to see her Queen exit the tent, being told that she would sleep for over a turn. She ran to inform Ann'wn.

Ann'wn quickly rose, checked on The Healer, then left the tent to find her Queen, “Bring the High Counselor and The Highest to me."

The High Queen had returned to the spot in which she had held herself so removed from The Realm. She urgently entered her meditations, needing distance from her uncontrollable emotions. The guilt was consuming her, but she didn't know what to do with these feelings. Never prior had she dealt with such, and now she fully understood why her teachers had wanted her to remain distant and aloof from all others.

Feel nothing. Remove yourself from these thoughts and emotions.

Feel no pain.

Feel no hurt.

Feel no love.

Feel nothing. Nothing at all.

Aloof. Observant.

As High Queen, prior to Sle'nel', she would escape to her gardens, meditating until she could distance herself enough from The Realm, until she could make sense of the events. On this occasion, however, she could make sense of nothing, unable to distance from the memories of the tortures the three had endured. Her guilt was consuming her fully, and she knew no way to halt it.

She moved into one of her mediations, distancing from The Realm, then moved into another, testing the stance, only to find that when bringing forward the memories of the tortures, she couldn't remain distant. She then backed out of her meditations, cried softly for a long while, then tried again. The weight of her guilt lay upon her as heavy as if she were being crushed by a thousand stones, yet she knew no way to halt the burden. More than once, when bringing forward the memories of the tortures, she ran quickly to a sheltered location, and lost her stomach's contents.

As she was crying to herself, Ann'wn, Sam, and Mil'der'in approached, “My Queen."

"Leave Me."

"I call for an audience, my Queen."

The voice startled her, but she quickly regained her distance, “Leave Me, High Counselor."

"I demand an audience."

She ignored the comment, returning to her meditations. Ann'wn, Sam and Mil'der'in attempted to speak to her for many moments, then were finally made to give up. Ann'wn knew not what else to try, so the pattern continued for two more turns. Finally, as she was standing near her Queen, watching over her, The Healer appeared.

"High One."

The voice jolted The High Queen back into The Realm, “You should be resting, Healer. Your head is not yet healed."

"It is healed enough. Come. Walk with me, High One."

San'lr'in’ looked at Ann'wn, saw that she also looked surprised, then turned and walked with The Healer.

Many turns had passed since Sle'nel', Caitha and Shr'dler'in had been rescued. During those turns, San'lr'in’ had given fully of all her healing powers and spells onto them, helping them to heal quickly from the most serious of the wounds. While Sle'nel’ remained yet healing, The Healer and Caitha were much improved because of The High Queen's overly-obsessed attentions on them.

During their eves alone, Ann'wn had told Shr'dler'in of what The High Queen was going through. The Healer had gone to see Caitha and told her of The High Queen's obsessions. Caitha had informed The Healer that Sle'nel’ also seemed most saddened.

"They each now believe that the other no longer desires them. A sad affair. The High Queen must think that Sle'nel’ could no longer wish to be with her, while The Elf must feel that she is no longer desirable after what the Dark Sorcerer did to her."

Together, they determined and plotted how to best help their Queen and Elf

"Why does she think this to be her blame? She saved us.” Caitha couldn't understand why San'lr'in’ remained so wracked with guilt over their injuries, with the exception of what Sle'nel’ had endured.

The Healer nodded gently, yet recovering from her great head wound, “It is who our High Queen is. She has always taken on such burden. It is why she is so well loved. But it is an overly difficult burden to bear, so we must convince her of otherwise. If we don't believe her guilty, why should she feel as such? But we can help them. Here is what we will do..."

As Shr'dler'in and The High Queen entered Sle'nel's tent, San'lr'in’ asked, “Why do we go here, Healer?"

"We were visiting with each other, and both Sle'nel’ and Caitha became with pain. I cannot provide any healing as yet."

The High Queen nodded, knowing the obvious truth of the statement. She smiled softly at Caitha and Sle'nel’ when she saw them. Even though her heart pounded with excitement at seeing her Elf and seeing her much recovered, she kept herself at a distance from the emotion, knowing full well that this is what the Elf would desire.

She looked at Caitha, “You are with pain?"

"A little. My head."

The High Queen placed her hands on Caitha's head very tenderly. She felt deeply in Caitha's mind, examining it for any mental issues left over from the ordeal. She removed the few she found, then removed Caitha's pain, and provided more of her own healing powers.

"My arm could use a little assistance, High One, if you are able."

The High Queen nodded, “I am pleased to do this for you, Healer."

While she was helping The Healer, The Healer began talking to her, “Thank you for saving us, High One. We never lost hope in this."

Caitha nodded and added, “I have never prior seen such a display of powers as you provided. It made me feel much improved to see that evil one have to take as such."

San'lr'in’ heard them, but said nothing. She simply nodded and smiled softly, but with distance. She looked at Sle'nel’ and saw her staring off into nowhere, “Are you with pain, Elf?"

Sle'nel’ looked sad, but had looked as such since the ordeal with the Dark Sorcerer. While Ann'wn and the others had been overly concerned about their Queen, The Healer and Caitha had become concerned over the Elf's own distancing from The Realm. She had spoken very little since her return from the Dark Sorcerer, and had displayed no signs of wishing to be in The Realm.

She merely shook her head and responded with barely a whisper, “I know not, but my body seems to be healing. It matters not. I care nothing of this."

"She has told us that she feels—"

"No! You have not this right."

The High Queen looked first at Caitha, who had first spoken, then at Sle'nel', who had reprimanded Caitha, “How do you feel, Elf? Are you in pain?"

She said nothing, and looked almost angry.

The Healer spoke, “Her knee is hurting her this turn, High One."

The High Queen crouched down near her lover, “Your knee?"

Sle'nel’ nodded, desiring her Queen's touch, her nearness, but also wanting to desire nothing ever again. Like her Queen, never again did she wish to feel her emotions. And she knew that her Queen could no longer desire her presence so tried to distance herself away from the Queen she loved so well. San'lr'in’ couldn't understand that Sle'nel’ was feeling even more hurt by her as the moment of betrayal with Sam.

San'lr'in’ placed both her hands on Sle'nel's knee and sent all her available healing powers into it, removing the remaining pain.

Sle'nel’ touched San'lr'in's hand as it now covered her knee, “Thank you."

It was Sle'nel's signal to her that it had been enough healing, but after their separation and quiet unspoken desperation, the touch had opened a passage. The High Queen closed her eyes at the feeling of Sle'nel's hand upon her own, shivering slightly at its surprising intensity. The feeling had erupted from her, making her desire more.

She looked down at Sle'nel's hand, wanting to take it into her own. She studied it for a moment, wanting to return the touch, but knowing that Sle'nel’ would never desire anyone's touch again; especially hers.

Surprisingly to Sle'nel', the touch had awoken her emotions for her Queen. She held her breath for a moment, not wanting to feel, fighting against it. But she didn't remove her hand.

Neither moved.

They were fully hesitant in the moment, desiring more, but afraid of such. Their feelings felt overly raw and sensitive, for each of them.

The High Queen finally breathed, then moved her hands, “How is your shoulder?"

Sle'nel’ also breathed in deeply as she took her hand back to her. She tried to make the moment more light, laughing softly, “I think I now fully understand what A'lon'lden must have endured."

San'lr'in’ sighed, understanding the statement. She nodded and moved her hand to her lover's cheek, forgetting her vow to remain distant, “I was so certain I could keep you safe from such as this. I have failed you."

Sle'nel’ trembled at the touch, her body beginning to shake. She closed her eyes, then slowly and hesitantly moved her hand onto San'lr'in's. She didn't want the feeling to leave.

Please need me. Please remain with me.

The High Queen had thought that Sle'nel’ would never again desire her touch, so was surprised. She sensed Sle'nel's thoughts for a moment.

Again surprised, she answered Sle'nel's unspoken thoughts, “Of course I need you, My Elf. More than you can know. But I am ashamed of Myself for allowing this occurrence. I have become weak, or this never would have occurred. This never should have occurred."

Sle'nel’ looked into her Queen's eyes for the first moment since the rescue, seeing the kindest yet saddest of looks, “It was you who gave me my strength. If you stand as distant, ashamed of yourself, ashamed of me, then where am I to find such courage?"

"Ashamed of you? I could never be so. You astound Me in your braveness. But you shouldn't depend so on Me for your strength, My Elf."

Sle'nel's eyes narrowed at the use of the term ‘braveness', and her voice yet again became distant at the memory of what it took to fight against the Dark Sorcerer, “Bravery is merely fear holding on but one moment more, only."

The High Queen was stunned at the statement, “Yes. This is truth, most certain, My Wise One. But bravery is yet the term for it. And loyalty. You saved your friends from greater harm. You maintained hope."

Sle'nel’ ignored the statement, but saw the tenderness in her lover's eyes. She touched The High Queen's arm, then moved down it slowly until their hands touched. As she held her Queen's hand, San'lr'in’ squeezed it lightly. The feeling was like fire to both of them.

Neither moved.

Neither breathed.

After a moment, she asked, “Is this a brave moment, my Queen?"

San'lr'in’ smiled at the question, “No. This is, most certain, fear holding on but one moment more.” Then, trying to regain control of herself, she asked, “Do you have much pain?"

Sle'nel’ had some, but thought it enough under control to not worry over, so shook her head. She noticed that their hands were yet firmly locked together. She looked back into her Queen's eyes, seeing softness and love. Her heart pounded as she remained frozen with uncertainty. After her ordeal with the Dark Sorcerer, she certainly never wished to be touched again, but needed and desired her Queen's touch and love more than anything she had ever felt. She didn't know what to do with her most conflicted feelings.

San'lr'in’ returned Sle'nel's stare, feeling more comforted in the moment than she had anticipated. She didn't want their hands to separate, noticing that they were holding on tightly together. She could barely breathe and didn't quite know how to move in the moment.

Sle'nel’ responded to her Queen's question, “You have controlled it well enough. Even now, most of my bruises have diminished greatly. Do you have any powers left? You must have used them all on us."

She laughed lightly, “It would seem that all My powers went into healing the three of you. In truth, I have felt overly guilty, so over-extended My powers in this fashion, but I did so freely. I will recover them soon enough."

The High Queen brought Sle'nel's hand to her lips and kissed it as if it were the most prized possession in all of existence. She hadn't realized she was beginning to open up to her Elf, but did know that she didn't wish to leave.

Sle'nel’ shivered at the feeling, afraid of being touched, but needing and desiring to be touched. The feeling of her lover's lips upon her hand took her breath away.

She fought to maintain her balance, “You look most tired, My Love."

As San'lr'in’ kissed Sle'nel's hand, she could smell her aroma. She closed her eyes and breathed it in. The aroma was so familiar to her that it was comforting, yet so recently distant from her that it fully awoke her senses and desires.

Unknowingly to both of them, The Healer and Caitha had slipped out the tent well prior to this moment, well pleased with themselves.

"I have had other concerns."

Her mind now her worse enemy, a memory of Sle'nel's tortures returned to her. Tears came to her eyes as she looked at her Elf.

"What is it, my Love?"

San'lr'in’ bowed her head, “I am sorry, My Elf. This never should have occurred."

Without thinking, or she would have resisted the moment, Sle'nel’ moved closer to San'lr'in', touching her shoulder, “Cry not. We will all recover. You couldn't have prevented as such. At some moment it would have occurred, and even you cannot control all the moments."

San'lr'in’ cried silently, “I am so very sorry, Elf. The visions of your tortures make Me see My weaknesses. Never should you have been so hurt and abused as this."

Sle'nel’ moved closer to her Queen, and in their grieving over the ordeal, they held each other. For many long moments, they comforted each other in their sadness, slowly moving away from the distance.

After they had cried their long-held tears, they finally began to move slightly back into The Realm, moving their emotions to a more tolerable point. They held each other quietly, resting somewhat from their long-involved burden, when Sle'nel’ became shocked at her Queen's condition, “Your breathing is labored."

"I am so deeply tired."

Sle'nel’ was surprised at the statement, never hearing her Queen speak so openly as this, “You need sleep. You carry your burdens overly. Come. Lay down beside me."

They laid together, San'lr'in’ barely able to remain awake. But, needing closeness more than sleep, she held Sle'nel’ tightly to her as she breathed in Sle'nel's most comforting of scents. As San'lr'in’ began to drift off to sleep, Sle'nel', amazed at herself, placed her Queen's hand gently onto her own breast. Since the tortures, she thought that she never wished to be touched in this area again.

Becoming instantly awake, The High Queen gasped quietly, not knowing what to do, but well knowing what her body wanted from her. She held Sle'nel's breast softly, cupping it in her hand. Exhausted, she let the feeling of urgency go, thinking that Sle'nel’ just wanted to be closer in their feeling. Suddenly, The High Queen felt Sle'nel's hand on her breast, searching, needing, exploring.

When San'lr'in’ didn't respond, Sle'nel’ became hesitant, “You don't desire me?"

San'lr'in’ couldn't catch her breath. Her hands were trembling, “Most certainly I do. With no question. But I am afraid that you don't desire Me. In truth, I am afraid I will hurt you."

Her voice quivering, Sle'nel’ quietly said, “I need to know you desire me. I need to know you yet need me. I ... need ... you."

San'lr'in’ moved close to Sle'nel', “I am afraid that I over-desire you, My Elf."

She kissed Sle'nel’ slowly and softly, but with great emotion and need. She brought Sle'nel’ fully into her embrace, kissing her so passionately that Sle'nel’ had no choice but to know of her Queen's great desire.

Only when she heard Sle'nel’ moan slightly at the pleasure of it, did she halt.

"I will not break, my Love."

San'lr'in’ held her tightly, but her body was now trembling, “I wish not to harm you in any fashion. And I am afraid My touch will repulse you."

The moment between them was more serious than any other had been for them, but Sle'nel’ needed help in forgetting her torments, and The High Queen needed help in bringing her feelings back to her. Sle'nel's shoulder and knee yet gave her many moments of pain, but she felt her lover's trembling hands and instantly forgot her own concerns. Her instinct was to comfort her lover.

With the greatest of truth, Sle'nel’ responded, “Never could this be so."

Their quiet, slow and careful explorations of each other over, they fell into a deep sleep for their first moment since the rescue. Sle'nel’ awoke first, having more rest than her Queen over the prior turns. Before opening her eyes to the turn, she sensed the moment, trying to place herself into her surroundings. She felt her Queen's even breathing, then became aware that her Queen was yet holding tightly onto her, as if afraid to let go. Sle'nel’ began to move carefully away, needing a moment outside, and needing to have the attendants bring food for them.

In her sleep, San'lr'in’ said, “No!"

"Shhhh ... Sleep, my Love. I will return in a moment only."

She managed to move quietly away from her Queen without waking her, and managed to rise, although yet well-pained from her wounds. When completed with her tasks, she returned to the tent, slipping quietly back into her Queen's arm. Although now in greater pain than prior, the comfort she felt as her Queen moved her arms around her even more tightly was far greater than her pains. She rested in her Queen's arms, falling back to sleep, and upon this moment, her tormented visions were gone.

The High Queen finally woke, “You are already awake, My Desire?"

Sle'nel’ laughed quietly, yet in some pain, “I have woken three moments prior to yours, My Love. You were exhausted."

The High Queen had already sensed Sle'nel's pain, so moved her hand to her shoulder and knee, and removed it. She then looked into her lover's eyes, “Thank you, My Elf. Never have I felt so lost. So alone as—"

Sle'nel’ moved her finger to her lover's lips, “Shhhh ... I know. I as well was afraid. We were overly afraid to even share our feelings with each other. This has not been an easy moment."

The High Queen looked so sadly at Sle'nel’ that her heart seemed broken. Rather than speak further, Sle'nel’ held her Queen, then kissed her, trying to help both of them move apart from their fears and tormented memories. As they kissed, Sle'nel’ felt her Queen's tears. As they touched, San'lr'in’ felt Sle'nel's tears. As they held desperately onto each other, they finally began to heal, together.

For two turns they slept, held each other, and began to move slowly back into The Realm. Upon the second turn, after the attendants had left, Sle'nel’ informed Ann'wn that The High Queen would be coming back into The Realm. Ann'wn asked for an audience.

For two turns, the entire camp hoped and waited. When the announcement came that The High Queen was returning and had agreed to an audience with Ann'wn, the tensions rose. No one, including the attendants, knew of what had passed between their Queen and the Elf, except that the food that had been provided had been eaten. This in itself had been a good sign, but since no noises had emerged from the tent, and since no one had been allowed inside, they could only guess as to the outcome.

Ann'wn knelt and bowed her head, “My Queen."

"Tell Me."

Ann'wn took quick note that her Queen was yet well distant, with no smile or softness upon her face, and that her voice was but an echo, “The Healer and Caitha are doing well and are ready to ride, Highness. The camp awaits your command."

"The Dark Sorcerer's guards?"

"They have all been dispatched after they were convinced to tell us all they knew. They knew very little, my Queen."

The High Queen showed no emotion. After a moment, she asked, “The Young One we found in the Grandmother's dwelling. How does she fare?"

"She improves slowly. Ern'seln’ has taken her under her care, along with the Young Supreme Sovereign, Highness. It seems a good match for the moment. But she hasn't spoken up to this moment, not even how she is called. She seems to trust Ern'seln’ well enough."

The High Queen listened attentively, but offered no comment, knowing fully that the Young One had indeed spoken—to her.

"When do we leave, my Queen?"

"In the morn."

"Yes, my Queen."

"I assume you searched through the Dark Sorcerer's cave."

Ann'wn bowed her head, “Yes, Highness. We picked up the broken staff. It awaits your decision."

Quietly, but almost spat out, The High Queen responded, “Burn it."

"As you say, Highness."

The High Queen turned away, an indication the meeting was over, “My Queen?"

She turned and looked at Ann'wn, then nodded.

"Is there anything I might do for you, my Queen?"

She saw that San'lr'in’ remained rigid. Tense. Then saw her Queen sigh and close her eyes. After a brief moment, The High Queen looked at her, blinking slowly, yet showing little emotion. As she answered, Ann'wn heard for the first moment in all their moments together, her voice sound hesitant, “Have patience, Force Leader. I am trying."

Sle'nel’ had been on the side, listening and watching. As she heard San'lr'in's response to Ann'wn, she came over and held out her arm to her lover. San'lr'in’ looked at her briefly, then held out her own arm toward her, taking Sle'nel's hand as she came close.

Ann'wn saw the great effort her Queen was giving, “I am here for you, my Queen, as you need."

She turned back to Ann'wn and replied in a whisper, “Thank you."

Her response had stunned Ann'wn, but she tried to remain as normal. Never prior had she heard as such from her Queen, “Will you be attending the eve meal, my Queen?"

Sle'nel’ and San'lr'in’ looked into each other's eyes. Sle'nel’ nodded, yet looking at her Queen, “Many have already requested as such. She has accepted the request."

Ann'wn bowed her head, “Your guards will be pleased, Highness. By your leave."

She nodded only.

* * * *

The High Queen left her tent, looking back to Sle'nel'. She held out her arm and softly said, “Accompany Me to the eve's meal, My Desire?"

Sle'nel’ looked into her Queen's eyes, seeing some hesitation in the moment. Neither was strong enough to truly endure facing all the others, but knew the moment must occur. Sle'nel’ nodded slightly, touched her Queen's cheek, then placed her arm upon her Queen's.

Having little to do except practice their warrior skills while they had waited through the turns, the guards had built a temporary but quite solid long table, complete with chairs for The High Queen. She was fully surprised as they were led to their eve meal, but said nothing. She sat at the head of the table, as was the expected custom, and found herself pleased in being able to sit at a real table once again. As was custom, The High Queen sat first and all the others followed.

She looked at her Elf and spoke quietly to her only, “This table is a pleasure."

Sle'nel’ sat, glad to be off her knee, and also gladdened for a real chair, “I also miss home.” She was pleased that her chair also had arms on which she could lean, as well as rest her arm that ached from the severe shoulder wound.

The eve's meal was served with great formality. The guards, scholars and sorcerers had all helped find varying foods from the forest, and the cooks had prepared a most excellent meal. San'lr'in’ was surprised in the display and provision of the meal, feeling almost as if they were back in the Valley.

She touched Sle'nel's hand and softly asked, “Do you miss the Valley, My Desire?"

"We need to complete this journey, my Queen. It has been overly long."

"Have patience, My Elf. We leave for El'fs'nd'lle in the morn."

San'lr'in’ was yet well distant from The Realm, but fully noticed how hard her guards and travelers were trying to make the eve seem as if in the Valley. Many guards were acting as musicians, supplying background music for the meal. Some were serving the meal, trying to be as The High Queen's attendants, but making overly many mistakes, much to The High Queen's amusement. And others were being light amusements, such as mimes or jugglers.

She turned to Ann'wn, who was sitting close to her left side, “Thank you, Force Leader. This is a most unexpected and enjoyable eve."

Ann'wn blushed, “Your guards felt that you have endured the rough living overly long, my Queen. Although they thought you have been excellent in this regard, they thought that you could use a moment back in the Valley."

"Give them My most generous praise, Force Leader."

"Yes, my Queen. They will be pleased at this."

After the meal, San'lr'in’ sat back into her chair, quietly observing all her companions. It felt as if many moons had passed since she had attended to her companions, so now took note of them. The Young One had grown noticeably since her powers had been removed. While yet young, San'lr'in’ saw that Sele’ now seemed far older in her actions.

Her eyes met with the young girl she had saved from the Grandmother's dwelling. Quietly acknowledging their understanding, the Young One bowed her head to The High Queen. After a short moment, The High Queen returned the quiet gesture, Thank you, Young Seer.

She saw that Mil'der'in and Fon'elnn’ had become quite close, and thought it a good pairing. She saw that Sam had become as one among all the guards, sorcerers and scholars, seeing her sister a most excellent of politicians. And she saw that her Healer and Ann'wn were yet quite new in their relationship with each other.

"My Queen."

She turned, startled at the voice. She looked down at who was bowing and kneeling to her, “Rise, Sam'r'in'thel'ineln'. What may I do for you?"

Sam held out a sword for her Queen, and held another in her other hand, “I would like a contest, Highness, to show you what I have been learning. I think you will be most pleased."

San'lr'in’ thought she might move away from such moments with others, when Sle'nel’ touched her hand, “She has worked overly hard for this moment, for you."

San'lr'in’ felt she had no choice in the matter, wishing to remain quiet and distant in her chair, but relented.

She rose, took the sword, felt its weight, then raised her sword and waited. Sam did the same. Movement after movement, The High Queen allowed Sam's sword movements to take the offensive, in order to learn of her new powers.

"You have done well, My Sister. You are using your powers well."

Sam was now already gasping at trying to keep up with her sister, but was pleased in that she could tell she had come a long way, “Fon'elnn’ has been but an excellent teacher, my Queen."

Sam suddenly took a strong aggressive stance against her Queen, using all her new powers and skills against her. Although The High Queen yet countered quite easily, she could tell that Sam was steadily improving. After many moments of observing Sam's new moves, San'lr'in’ had seen enough. She made a few quick but powerful moves, quickly forcing Sam to drop her sword.

She laughed lightly, “You are learning even more quickly than I had dared hoped. I am well pleased in your progress, Sam'r'in'thel'ineln'. You use your powers wisely."

Sam smiled, proud of her gains, bowing her head, “For you and The Realm, my Queen."

As she was handing her sword back to Sam, a voice came from behind her, “Caring to fight a true Master, Highness?"

She turned, sword yet in-hand. She nodded her head, bowing it politely in acknowledgement to the Master, “Master. Perhaps another moment?"

Fon'elnn’ raised her sword, not taking her no for an answer. The High Queen had no choice but to match Fon'elnn's challenge. Ann'wn and all the others were suddenly well interested. It had been many, many cycles since two Masters had challenged each other. All stood, moving closer to watch the match, to observe the moves, to bet on the winner.

"You needing to return to The Realm, my Queen."

San'lr'in’ raised her sword to Fon'elnn', wondering if she had enough desire to even attempt winning the sword dance. She felt defeated in her own right, and didn't want to engage in this contest.

Both being Masters, neither initially took the first move. The High Queen held steady, waiting, finally forcing Fon'elnn’ to do so. That was already one gain for her.

Fon'elnn’ had never prior seen her new Queen fight, so began the contest at a medium level. The High Queen smiled to herself, knowing that Fon'elnn’ had just displayed a weakness that could have cost her the contest. In fairness, The High Queen didn't use it against her, suddenly desiring to see how good Fon'elnn’ was with her sword.

The High Queen countered easily, not yet making her own moves. She watched Fon'elnn's moves carefully, assessing her skills, looking for her weaknesses and testing her endurance. Fon'elnn’ saw her Queen's eyes measure her, yet quite uncertain as to The High Queen's abilities. No one had yet informed her that San'lr'in’ was the second highest Master in The Realm, in this era.

Startling Fon'elnn', The High Queen made an uncharacteristically aggressive move against Fon'elnn', using her Masters’ skills as well as her powers. By doing so, she instantly changed the contest to a higher level, forcing Fon'elnn’ to display more of her true abilities. Fon'elnn’ did so, returning the aggressive stance quickly. The High Queen was both amazed and pleased.

Ann'wn and Meera watched the quick and decisive moves each contestant provided, seeing them well-skilled. Ann'wn had never been able to fully draw-out her Queen's abilities, so was enjoying the moment like no other.

"Our Queen is magnificent."

"I never would have thought her with such abilities as these."

"Even now I must wonder if these are the extent of her skills, or if she yet holds back."

The swords clanged together so loudly and with such strength that Meera was afraid the swords would break.

"Woden's swords would not be able to withstand such beating as this."

Ann'wn had never prior thought of this, “Our metals are of the Mystics’ forging. Perhaps they are stronger. Yet, even without using her Masters’ skills, I have seen our Queen break a sword, prior."

Fon'elnn’ tried to force her Queen into a defensive posturing, delivering one aggressive move after the other, but to no avail. The High Queen held her spot, taking the blows solidly, yet measuring and assessing Fon'elnn's abilities.

"You display your weaknesses overly soon, Master."

"And you displaying yours not at all, my Queen."

The High Queen smiled some, but took the moment to force Fon'elnn’ to lose ground. After this many moments, she began delivering even harsher blows to Fon'elnn'.

"You being overly strong, Highness."

"Match My strength, Master. I expect more from you than this."

The Master began to grow frustrated with herself, embarrassed by her Queen's comment. She pushed herself further into her Masters’ stance, calling on all her powers and abilities. San'lr'in’ had expected as such to occur, pleased that the contest would finally offer her a real challenge.

Sam had been pleased in her own progress, but now saw how much more she needed to learn. She was astonished in her sister's skills. In truth, all the guards watched in amazement, having never prior seen their Queen such a warrior as this. They were suddenly all embarrassed in their skills, but also were well proud of having such a Warrior Queen as this. All knew that their skills paled well in the comparison.

San'lr'in’ hadn't needed to use many of her Masters’ skills for long prior, having had no one equal in her abilities. She had taken a few moments to fully assess Fon'elnn's skills, but found that Fon'elnn’ didn't have the quantity of moves she possessed, guessing that the earlier Masters’ were yet young as a force during Fon'elnn's era.

Using both hands on her sword, San'lr'in’ delivered a blow that caused Fon'elnn’ to stumble, nearly making her drop her sword. Fon'elnn’ recovered quickly, but The High Queen was on the move. One sword movement after another, San'lr'in’ began to force Fon'elnn’ into a defensive mode that couldn't be altered. It was all Fon'elnn’ could do to remain fully engaged. But rather than give away all her abilities, The High Queen pushed the contest to an even higher level, finally making a few quick and aggressive moves. Suddenly, she moved her sword in such a fashion as to cause Fon'elnn’ to drop hers. As she did this, The High Queen held out her hand, causing Fon'elnn's sword to her prior to even allowing it to touch the ground.

The High Queen was smiling, a most rare sight of late, “Lose your sword, Master?"

Fon'elnn’ laughed, “Where learning you such as this? I am knowing not this trick."

The High Queen smiled and tossed Fon'elnn's sword back to her, “Watch. I will display the move one more moment."

Fon'elnn’ caught her sword easily. They raised their swords to begin, and instantly, The High Queen made the same moves, showing Fon'elnn’ how the move was managed.

"Not being easy, my Queen."

"But useful. No?"

Fon'elnn’ laughed again, “You must being the Highest of all Masters, my Queen.” She came to her Queen and placed her hand upon her Queen's shoulder. San'lr'in’ did likewise, as was the custom in such a contest. She then gave her sword to Fon'elnn'.

"A good contest, Master. Thank you for the distraction."

Fon'elnn’ knelt and bowed her head, “Being my honor, my Queen. Never have I being in such a service as a true Warrior Queen. I being glad to being in your service, Highness, as I fearing to be against such as you, Highest Master."

The High Queen frowned slightly, and placed her hand softly on Fon'elnn's head, “No, Master. I am only as Second Master in The Realm. We will be meeting up once more with the First Master of The Realm at the Gates of El'fs'nd'lle, unless I am mistaken yet again."

Fon'elnn’ sensed that this didn't delight her Queen, “Being a problem, my Queen?"

The High Queen looked down into Fon'elnn's eyes. Quietly, she replied, “We hope not, Master."

As San'lr'in’ began to return to the table, she saw that all her warriors were staring in disbelief of the contest. As soon as she had glanced at them, they all fell to their knees and bowed their heads. She frowned again, not pleased by the honor, yet blaming herself for the tortures that Sle'nel', Caitha, and her Healer had endured.

"Warrior High Queen."

Ann'wn had seen her Queen's frustrated response overly late. San'lr'in’ bowed her head slightly and sighed. She closed her eyes for a moment, wishing she were elsewhere, far away from this realm of others’ making.

She breathed in deeply, trying to restore some patience to herself, “Rise. I thank you for this eve's most unexpected entertainment. Enjoy the remainder of your eve. We depart in the early morn."

She bowed her head briefly to Ann'wn, acknowledging Ann'wn's patience, then placed out her arm to Sle'nel', wishing to leave.

But Mil'der'in knew that her Queen needed to return fully to The Realm and her duties if all was to go well for them. And she knew that it was her duty to take on The High Queen's persistence in this regard, no matter what her Queen might think or do.

"My Queen?"

She turned to the voice, “High Counselor?"

"I request the High Counselor's Audience, Highness."

She turned away, shaking her head, “Not now, High Counselor. Another turn."

"I call for the High Counselor's Audience, my Queen, as is my privilege."

She turned back, looking most displeased, “It is your privilege, but it is not My pleasure, High Counselor. Heed My words at this moment. I have not this patience you are requiring of Me."

Mil'der'in stood fast, but slightly trembling. Never prior had she stood as firm as this in any request to The High Queen, “I must insist, my Queen."

So softly that only Sle'nel’ and Mil'der'in could hear her, “Don't do this to us at this moment, High Counselor. It is not a wise move on your part."

Loud enough so that all could hear, she responded, “Now, my Queen. I must insist."

"I could walk away from you, High Counselor. Your request is ill-advised."

"What do you fear, Highness?"

Mil'der'in had been High Counselor since San'lr'in’ had become Queen of the Valley, so knew her well. Indeed, San'lr'in’ had selected Mil'der'in as her High Counselor, as had been her privilege. So, Mil'der'in well knew that invoking the word ‘fear’ in regard to her Queen's emotions was to challenge The High Queen directly.

San'lr'in's eyes narrowed, while Mil'der'in tried to swallow her own fear, “Fear, High Counselor? You think Me afraid?"

She swallowed hard, barely able to answer. She couldn't look her Queen in the eyes, “Yes, my Queen."

"I am afraid? Of you, Mil'der'in?"

"No, my Queen. Of yourself."

San'lr'in’ raised her eyebrow, then frowned. She wasn't pleased, “You risk My wrath upon you, High Counselor? Nothing could be of this importance."

"Please, my Queen. This is most important and urgent."

She could tell that Mil'der'in was using all her courage to face her, but she also knew that she hadn't the strength to provide this session to her High Counselor, “Not here, High Counselor. You ask overly of Me. I will grant you a private audience."

Mil'der'in now had tears in her eyes, afraid of standing so strongly against her Queen, but knowing it was for her benefit, “I must insist, my Queen. In front of all."

San'lr'in’ looked at her for a moment, trying to breathe. Without a word, she turned to Sle'nel’ and held out her arm.

Mil'der'in wasn't going to be denied this easily. She knew she had to keep trying, “My Queen. I must insist. It is my right and my duty to you and to The Realm. We must face down this issue, for the good of The Realm."

Mil'der'in had gone to her and touched her Queen on the arm, an unheard of practice and deeply forbidden. Mil'der'in had been the closest friend to her Queen prior to Sle'nel', so took the risk. She did so, even knowing that if called for, beheading for the act of touching The High Queen without permission was the punishment.

The High Queen looked first at Mil'der'in, then at the arm that now touched her own, “You go overly far, High Counselor."

Mil'der'in took in a deep breath, then made her demand, “If you have no fear, High Queen, then grant me my due. Now. Here. In the presence of all."

She spoke softly but harshly, “I thought you My friend and advocate, yet here you stand, betraying My confidence and trust."

It was otherwise, but Mil'der'in knew that her Queen would be unable to see the truth in her request. With the last strength she had, she pushed further, “Please, my Queen. Trust me. Grant me this High Counselor's Audience."

San'lr'in’ looked to Ann'wn, “So, My Force Leader. You are in on this also? This is why the table was made for this eve. So that a proper High Counselor's Audience could be had. If I cannot trust My Force Leader and My High Counselor, then who is left? Perhaps you would desire a new High Queen? This could be easily arranged for you."

Ann'wn came forward, bowing her head, “No, my Queen. It is not as you think. Please, Highness. Grant Mil'der'in her request. You will see. If you have never trusted us prior, trust us upon this moment, my Queen. I beg of you."

Sle'nel’ had begun to understand the reason for their request, but was uncertain if it were yet the proper moment, so remained away from the choice. She would accept her lover's final decision, whatever it was.

San'lr'in’ stood alone, trying to breathe away her anger, trying to decide on the best course of action. She felt paralyzed and trapped. She studied her warriors, her leaders, her closest of companions. She then lowered her head and closed her eyes, hoping that the moment would disappear. She hadn't the inner strength to be this close to The Realm as yet.

After a long moment, she gave in, “Where would you have Me, High Counselor?"

Mil'der'in's body had become so tense with fear that she could barely move. She drew in a deep breath, relieved that the tense moment had passed. She could hardly believe that she had convinced her Queen.

"Please sit at the table, High Queen. In the middle of the other long side."

San'lr'in’ complied, then watched as Caitha and The Healer sat on the opposite side from her, facing her, along with Meera, Ann'wn, Sam, Fon'elnn', An'ther'on, Uthrn, and a few others.

Mil'der'in turned to Sle'nel', “Please accept our invitation to sit at the Counselor's Audience Table, Most Respected High Sorcerer."

She shook her head, then rose to leave.

Meera went to her, “Please, Sle'nel'. Trust us. Sit with us."

"I am The High Queen's lover, Meera. It be not my place. It is enough that I have not stood against you at this moment. That alone told The High Queen enough."

Meera knew that what Sle'nel’ had said was truth, and let her leave to observe the proceedings from the forest's edge. The High Counselor's Audience that Mil'der'in had requested was a trial of sorts, and it was with this knowledge that San'lr'in’ had at first declined it.

"Should I remind all those present of the rules of the High Counselor's Audience, Highness?"

San'lr'in’ was displeased, so could care less what they now did. She waved her hand as if in dismissal, “It is your show, Mil'der'in. I wish you well in it."

Mil'der'in hadn't missed the fact that her Queen had called her by her name while in front of all, as a show of disrespect, instead of her title, as was the expected in these situations. She ignored it, knowing she also would have been angered by such a request after such an event with the Dark Sorcerer. She turned to all those who now stood in back of the table, on the same side as The Healer and Caitha. No one stood in back of The High Queen, as it wasn't allowed, except for the ever-present guards.

"Questions will be asked of The High Queen, and given her acceptance of this High Counselor's Audience, she will answer them fully and truthfully, as knowable."

She turned to San'lr'in'thel'ineln', facing her directly, “Are you ready, my Queen?"

She nodded only.

Mil'der'in breathed in deeply, readying herself for the moment, “When you were voted in as Queen of the Valley, who voted?"

"San'lr'in’ wondered where this line of questioning was leading, but knew she needed to answer the question, “The Council."

"Was it unanimous?"

"I was informed as such. I wasn't there to witness the vote."

"When you were voted in as High Queen of The Realm, who voted?"

"The Deep Mystic Council."

"Was it unanimous."

"Yes."

"When you battled against the Mungardies who killed your lover, how many were there?"

"Many. I know not the exact number."

"Give us an idea. Over twenty?"

"Yes."

"Over thirty?"

She hesitated, “Yes."

"Over forty?"

She sighed, “Yes. Allow it to stand there."

"Have you followed your vows, to the best of your ability?"

"I believe I have. It is not for Me to say."

"Have you knowingly or willingly ever killed an innocent."

There was a moment of hesitation, then a sigh, “Yes."

"Why?"

"To halt the Mungardies from killing more innocents. As a last solution to prevent further battle or violence. This has occurred upon five moments during My Reign."

"Would you do as such again?"

"If there were no other solution at hand, without question."

"Did you allow Sle'nel’ to become High Sorcerer even though you had wished it to be otherwise?"

"This is My affair only, High Counselor. This is between the Elf and Me."

"Please answer the question, High Queen. You have agreed to the rules of the High Counselor's Audience."

"Yes."

The questioning went on for many moments as Mil'der'in made San'lr'in’ display her past decisions along with The Realm's past decisions of her. San'lr'in’ sat back in her chair, distancing herself, yet wondering where Mil'der'in was leading. The rules of a High Counselor's Audience forbade that she intercede into another's mind while being questioned. But it didn't halt her from glaring at her High Counselor.

"Have you ever wished you could later change the decision you were forced to make at a given moment?"

"Of course this is so. I would be lying if I said I did not. Whenever an injury occurs or a life is taken, I regret having to make My decision no matter the incident; no matter the success."

"What are your vows?"

"Many of My vows are sacred to The Realm only. I have vowed My silence of them. Only the Deep Mystics know of these."

This was a surprise to everyone, including Mil'der'in.

"What if I asked you to share these vows, in this setting of the High Counselor's Audience?"

"I wouldn't break My vows for such a reason. That is also a vow."

"What vows can you share?"

"To bring peace to The Realm. To return the Elves to The Realm. To protect the innocents. To be a fair and just leader. To place The Realm's needs above all others."

"Have you ever broken any of your vows?"

She sighed, “Yes."

"Why?"

"To keep injustice and betrayal from occurring. So that I could keep My other more sacred vows. To prevent further violence and deceit."

"Do you want this position and power?"

"This question cannot be answered simply. Since I took and agreed to My vows, then it would seem that I did wish the position and power. The power is needed to uphold the position, and the position is needed to uphold the power. My desires are not to be considered, as your question would have them be. My desires were placed aside the moment I became High Queen, as was expected."

"Do you want this position and power?"

She took a moment to think on the question, “In truth, I know not, but it is My vow."

"Did you ever make a decision that cost the life of one of your closest leaders?"

"Yes. Ann'wn's predecessor was sent into a losing battle. I have lost many of My Private and Black guards in this fashion, as well as countless scouts."

"Is it assumed that they were aware of and willing to take such risks?"

"It doesn't make the decision more correct for such, or the more easy, for this knowledge."

"Please answer the question."

She frowned, “Yes. It is common knowledge."

"Could we also assume that those under you, yet closely connected to you, such as The Healer, also know the risks of this connection?"

San'lr'in’ now understood where the questioning was leading, and objected, “But this is not the same. This is—"

"Answer the question, High Queen."

By her vows, when a High Counselor's Audience such as this was requested and given, The High Queen must give the truth as she knew it, without question. She sighed, hating the moment, “I would hope not."

"Is this truth, my Queen? Please answer the question with a yes or no."

"Yes. It is as they are told when coming into the service of The High Queen. You could ask this of them yourself."

Mil'der'in was coming close to the end of her High Counselor's Audience, having moved her Queen where she needed her to be, “Tell us, High Queen, what was it your teachers desired most of you?"

"To be strong and unyielding. To remain distant from all."

"Have you done as such?"

She laughed with bitterness, “No. I have failed these teachings."

"Are you a Master?"

"You know this to be so."

"Please answer, my Queen."

"Yes."

"Are you a High Master?"

"I am Second Master in The Realm.” She didn't look pleased in having to say it.

"Have you taken powers into yourself at great cost and pain to you?"

"Yes."

"As a point of discussion, my Queen, is it realistic to ask that a High Queen be harsh and strong at all the moments?"

She thought about this question, as this was one of the questions most in her mind, “My teachers pounded this point into Me upon every moment of every turn, upon every turn of every moon, upon every moon of every cycle."

"Please answer the question directly, Highness."

"I know not. How can such be known? But I do know that had I remained as such, Caitha, My Healer, and Sle'nel’ would be as yet unharmed."

"Do we know this as most certain, my Queen?"

"The Dark Sorcerer selected them for this reason. Had I remained distant, no one would have been close enough for him to have made a selection such as this."

"No? He could not have selected your Force Leader, for example?"

She shrugged, “I suppose he could have done as such."

"Or perhaps me?"

"Yes. Most certain."

"Perhaps the leaders of your Private and Black Guard units?"

"Yes."

"Or your hand-selected attendants?"

"Yes."

"And do you suppose he would have tortured them, as well?"

"Perhaps. But he was part R'kin'dles and vowed to prevent the Elves’ return."

"Would he have tortured his captives, my Queen? Was this in his nature?"

"Yes. He would have tortured and used anyone. He enjoyed torturing."

"Could you have known he would take Sle'nel', Caitha, and The Healer?"

"I should have known this."

"Could you have known this, specifically, my Queen?"

"I placed a sleeping spell on Sle'nel’ that eve in hopes of preventing such."

"So you attempted to prevent the kidnapping."

"Yes, but I couldn't guess who he would take, except for Sle'nel'. She was the most obvious choice. I didn't think he would take any other, and I never thought he would be able to kidnap Sle'nel', given the sleeping spell."

"Yet, you hold yourself to the blame for their tortures."

"Yes. I am High Queen. The blame falls to Me."

"Could you have prevented this?"

She looked frustrated, “If I were smarter. If I were stronger. If I had remained more alert."

"Can you be this aware at all the moments, turn after turn?"

"I must!"

"Is it possible?"

"No.” She hung her head, knowing she spoke the truth. “It is not possible."

"Was he going to kill them?"

She spoke softly, now having to display the truth. She couldn't have prevented the kidnapping, “Yes, without question."

"Did you prevent this?"

"They are alive."

"Did you prevent him from killing them?"

"With help from My Forces. They tracked him and dispatched his guards."

"Could you have prevented their tortures?"

"If we had been able to arrive sooner. If I had—"

"Answer the question, San'lr'in'thel'ineln'. Could you have prevented him from torturing them?"

She hung her head and closed her eyes. For many turns, she firmly wanted to believe that the tortures had been her fault, but the truth lay now in front of her.

"I could not have prevented as such."

"Tell us why you have thought otherwise these past few turns, Highness."

She sighed, giving in to The Realm and all its harshness, “Because I was taught that I must be able to do as such, but I cannot. It is My greatest weakness. I cannot prevent the moments that are yet to come, unless luck is with Me."

"Can anyone?"

"No. It is the nature of The Realm."

"And yet you prevented him from killing them, although this was his plan, was it not?"

"Yes. He would have killed them given more moments. We arrived overly soon for his plan."

"My Queen, I am going to ask one of the questions again. Should a High Queen be hard and distant at all the moments?"

"Ann'wn would be dead if this were so. I would have beheaded her. The same is truth in regard to Uthrn. A harsh and strong Queen has no tolerance of any sort."

Mil'der'in replied softly, “Should a High Queen be hard at all the moments?"

She answered truthfully, “I know not."

Mil'der'in hesitated a moment, thinking on her next question, then asked, “When it becomes Sele'm'tinel'ti'non'n's moment to be Supreme Sovereign, would you have her be hard at all the moments, my Queen?"

She gave in to her internal struggles, finally facing the truth, “No, I would not."

"What would you tell her in this regard?"

San'lr'in’ looked over to Sle'nel', feeling peace in doing so. Without question, she knew she loved her, and knew that she wanted to love her, regardless of the inherent dangers. She spoke the truth, the truth that had remained so long hidden from her, “I would tell her that to be a great queen, she must have as much compassion as she does strength and knowledge. Without this, her decisions will be harsh and narrow ones only, with little or no regard to the purpose of life itself. I would tell her to ask herself one question, ‘What can you hold onto as a leader during the moments of change, harshness and question, that helps keep you and your realm stable?’”

"What can you hold onto, Highness, as a leader during these moments?"

She continued to look at Sle'nel’ while answering, thinking only of her love for her Elf, “The ones that are not hard that help to keep Me balanced. I can hold onto loyalty, companionship, and My Great Love."

"You mentioned that to remain hard is to have no regard for the purpose of life. What is the purpose of life, my Queen?"

Looking back at her, San'lr'in’ smiled for a moment at Mil'der'in, giving in to her, “You think Me this wise, Mil'der'in? I am no scholar, but will tell you My version. The purpose of life is life itself. To live it, and to live it as fully as possible. To remain without love and compassion just because one is High Queen is to deny life; any life; all life. And to deny life is to ignore the continual struggle for life. That is what We struggle so hard for, is it not? For a quality of life? To make strong connections to others so that life is made all the more improved and easier?"

She rose, then held out her arms to Sle'nel'. Sle'nel’ came over and placed her hands into her Queen's. Looking straight into Sle'nel's eyes, San'lr'in’ finally responded to Mil'der'in's question, “To answer your question, Mil'der'in. No. A Queen shouldn't always strive to be harsh and strong. It keeps them well-distanced from those she serves. A Queen needs to know what love is so that she can also understand the softness in The Realm, the softness that should be in The Realm, as well as its harsh complexities so that she better understands what must be done, for what reason. It is a most difficult enterprise though, as love is a risk."

"Would you tell Sele'm'tinel'ti'non'n to take this risk, my Queen?"

Yet looking into Sle'nel's eyes, now smiling at her most lovingly, she replied, “Without question."

"Does taking the risk make The High Queen stronger, my Queen?"

She nodded, thinking only of Sle'nel', “It makes her whole."

Mil'der'in had accomplished what she had wanted—to make her Queen face the realities of being Queen. That it wasn't an easy task and that she wouldn't be able to prevent all things. She had made The High Queen move back into The Realm, through her love of Sle'nel'. Through The High Queen's own kindness and gentleness. She had made her face her own truths and own them. She had brought her Queen home to them.

She sounded relieved as she said, “I declare the High Counselor's Audience concluded, unless there be any other questions to be placed to The High Queen of The Realm."

Sam stepped forward, “I have one, High Counselor."

San'lr'in’ and Mil'der'in looked at Sam with some concern in their expression, “Speak your question, Highest of Woden."

"High Queen. May the musicians now begin our eve's dancing music?"

San'lr'in’ laughed lightly, waiving her hand in agreement, thinking that her sister had a good sense of the sensitive moments and when to be well rid of them. The music began with a dance for The High Queen and her partner of choice, as was the usual practice in the Valley.

She smiled softly upon her Elf, “I know that you are yet unable to dance, due to your as yet unhealed wounds. Please forgive Me in My duty, My Desire. I will ask another."

Sle'nel’ kissed her Queen on the cheek, “I know you will use the moment wisely, my Love."

Since Sle'nel’ couldn't yet dance, The High Queen went to her next choice and bowed slightly, offering her hand to Mil'der'in, “Would you honor Me with the first dance, High Counselor?"

Mil'der'in was fully surprised, “Me, my Queen? I would have thought you would rather have me given to the Dark Sorcerer."

The High Queen raised her eyebrow, but smiled, “I have already been rejected once on this dance, High Counselor. Would you have it that The High Queen is rejected twice in the same eve?"

Mil'der'in returned the smile, bowed slightly, then took her Queen's hand, “I am honored, my Queen."

As they danced around the smoothed dancing floor of meadow flowers, The High Queen looked upon her High Counselor, suddenly respecting her even more than she had prior, “That was most brave of you, High Counselor."

Mil'der'in blushed, “You are not an easy one to face down, my Queen."

"High Counselor? Is this the first moment that we have prior danced together?"

"There was one other moment, Highness, but an urgency arose and you had to leave. That was the last moment we ever prior thought of each other in that regard. We never crossed such paths again, as prescribed by our laws."

They danced, enjoying the moment of coming back together as strong friends. As the dance was completing its course, San'lr'in’ looked intensely into Mil'der'in's eyes, frightening her.

The dance halted, but San'lr'in’ held onto Mil'der'in's hand, “Mil'der'in.” She hesitated a moment, then said in a most serious of tones, “Thank you. Only a friend such as you could have done as such. I am most truly in your debt."

Mil'der'in blushed as she smiled, “I performed my duty as you would have of me, my Queen."

"And I thank you for it. I know well the difficulty of such."

Fon'elnn’ came up to San'lr'in', “My Queen, may I having the next dance with the High Counselor?"

San'lr'in’ bowed slightly to Mil'der'in, then gave her hand to the Master, “You will have to ask that question of her, but ask it quickly, Master, as our High Counselor is a most desirable of women, and the most respected among them.” She began to walk away, then turned and said, “As she should be, given her greatness."

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