Samhain Not Far Off

Just three more days until Samhain.  I love this time of year.  It's a good time for reflecting the things that have happened through out the last year, friends made, achievements accomplished.  Life had many ups and downs but as we reflect on them they seem to loose their sadness, the down parts.  The joys of living seem to shine through much more too.
Rainy day again today and should carry on through out the next week.  Seems to always rain this time of year and it's always a downer for those poor little kiddies dressed in their super hero or fairy princess costumes.  Mom helps them dress up into all the glitz and glamour just to cover it all up with heavy coats and boots.  Now that is very unfair.....but the rain is symbolic to me.  It washes away any pain or anger or sadness and cleans the wheel for a fresh new start.
So the wheel turns once again, clicking to the next year cycle and to bring with it new adventures and challenges.  Exciting to see just what I will accomplish and learn until that wheel clicks yet again.

Samhain

Samhain

Tis time now once agin'

For Samhain dear Friend

A time for dance

To take your chance

And call agin' the dead

A time for cats and creepy rats

Of cauldron boils and black wing bats

To read the next and stop the hexed

To dance around the fire.

Let’s fly the moon

Niamh Sullivan

Wednseday

It has started raining now and you can feel how much the temperature has dropped.  It's going to really drop over night and over the next few days.  I think our time for Fall has finally arrived.  I wouldn't be surprised if it snowed by the end of October.  Something is telling me we are to have a lot of snow this year.  We have been spoiled over the last two winters with little snow and milder than usual winters but I think we are going to make up for it this year.
It grows dark so quickly now too.  Soon it will be dark when I go to work and dark when I leave.  It gets rather depressing, the long nights, but they won't last for too long.  Besides I do like the night.  Here there is little light pollution from the city.  It's not that large and we don't have all those lights a downtown metropolis would have.  When it's cold and the sky is clear, millions of stars are twinkling above and the Moon, well it is glorious and so so silver.  It lights up the snow and makes is sparkle in a blue hue from the frosted Moon.
Things seem to quieten down so much more at night too.  Some nights when it snows, you can hear the hush of the falling snow as it gently rests on the trees and ground as if it is shushing you, telling you to listen to the magick of the silence.
Ah, but those days aren't here quite yet and Gaia is still painting the landscape in all her favorite colours.  The trees almost look ablaze with red, orange and yellow flames.  A final hurrah to Summer's warmth and sunshine  before the icy touch of Mr. Frost as he travels from window to window painting ice on the pains of glass.
Seasons come and go and the wheel turns and turns.  Each season has their own majesty and hypnotic trance that carries you from one to the next. I suppose in my Crone years I notice them more even if they do seem to go by quicker.
Welcome Fall to my world, welcome to my life.

CHAPTER FIVE        

            Richard sat with his face searching the clear starlit night for an answer.  The sobs and tears of Elise had finally ceased and all was still and silent in the cool spring evening.  He was not sure how long he had been sitting there, as time had seemed to suddenly stop when his mother had told him her story.  His life had seemed to end abruptly as she spoke of Elise’s bloodline and how they would never be able to marry.  All their dreams of living together on the farm his father had built came crashing down.  Their future together was now totally changed.  How could he go on without her at his side?

            “It is time we should be going I think, is it not my dear friend?”  Skeet was at his side gently nudging his arm.  “We should leave soon if we are to make good time of it.  Come inside and gather what goods we will need.  Your sorrow will have to wait, my friend.  You are needed for much bigger things than just your heart.”  The strange bird looked up at him with love in its eyes.

            Richard took a deep breath and sat up straight holding his knees in his arms.  “My life I have always dreamed of has been shattered forever.  The pieces will never fit together again.  Everything has changed for me now, Skeet.”  He took a deep breath and picked up a small pebble at his feet then tossed it into the blackness of the night.  “I will never be the same person.  Everything will be very different for me, will it not Skeet?”  The feathered creature bent its small head down.  “I love her with all my being and in loosing her I have lost myself.  And it hurts so very much.”  He buried his head into his knees and arms trying to hide the tears from Skeet.

            “I am not of human form but I do know love.  It is something you will never loose and will hold deep inside for all time.  Have faith my friend, things do have a way of working themselves out for the best.”  Skeet nudged Richard’s arm again.  “Come, let us gather our things, and be on our way.”  He ruffled his feathers.  “There are many who love and feel strongly for others and their well being is what is important here, not just that of one man and one woman, but many.  It is your destiny to help them now and leave your aching heart aside.”  Skeet flew up to the door of the house.  “Come my friend, we must be on our way.”  He then disappeared into the house and at the doorway stood Anora, clenching her hands together tightly.

            Richard got up and wiped off the red dust from his pants.  Looking up he saw his mother standing in the doorway.  Slowly he walked toward her and gently put his arms around her.  “Oh my dear mother, I can only guess how hard this must have been for you.  Have heart, I know things will work themselves out.”  He softly kissed her forehead.  “Now, Skeet and I should be off.  I want to get a good start before the sun is high and hot in the sky.”  She put her arm around his waist and they walked inside.

            Peter was sleeping on the bench by the window.  He still had his clothes on and his mother had just put a blanket over him.  Skeet was on the back of the chair at the table, his long tail touching the floor behind it.  Anora had packed most of Richard’s pack and stuffed it with as much food and supplies that she could possibly fit inside it.  Richard lifted it and frowned at her, then smiled, as she looked at him in question.  She had also set out a plate of food and a cup of wine for him to eat before he left.  Richard sat down and began to eat.

            Suddenly Anora’s eyes grew large and she rushed out of the room.  Just as quickly, she returned carrying a long package wrapped in a strip of leather.  Holding it out to Richard she said, “I think this is a good time to give this to you.  It was your father’s and he wanted you to have it when you came of age, but I had forgotten all about it until now.”  Pushing it at him she said, “Take it, it is yours, and you might need it now.”

            Richard reached over and took the parcel.  Slowly he unwrapped the soft fine leather and found it to be the finest broad sword he had ever seen.  He looked up to his mother with eyes of wonder as he pulled it from the leather.  It looked like it was brand new and never used.  The blade was of the finest steel he had ever seen, shining in the light of the lamps.  On the blade was etched the finest detail of a dragon.  The hilt was of gold and embedded in it were gemstones of reds and greens that sparkled when he moved it.

            “Where did this come from?”  Richard was in shock.

            “It was your father’s sword.”  Anora turned her head away quickly.  “He was captain of the guard at Drummond Castle when we first met.  It was given to him for bravery in battle a few years before.”  Anora walked over to the counter, head hung down.  “He gave it up to marry me instead.  He left the guard to build this house for us to live in when we were married.”  She turned to face Richard, tears welling in her eyes.  “So you see my son, it was not only I who turned my back on my chosen life.  He gave up his duties to the High Drummond just as I did.”

            Richard stared down at the sword, lost for words.  He clutched the golden hilt with both hands and held the sword tightly to his chest.  “Thank you, mother.”  He gathered up his pack and strapped the sword’s sheath to his belt.  “I will treasure this always.”  He walked over to her and hugged her tightly.  “I must be off.  I will stop and see Morga on my way.  I will give her your best.  Please tell Peter I said good-bye, I do not want to wake him and make sure he cares for the fields.  He knows what to do.”  He gathered his pack and motioned to Skeet.  “I will be back as soon as I speak with Hardorin.  Please ask Domi if you need anything, okay.  Promise me you will?”  Anora nodded her head.  “And please tell Elise we will talk when I return.”

            “Yes, I will tell her.  Now off you go before the sun is up.  And both of you be careful on your trail.”  She hugged him once more and stroked Skeet’s head.

            At that, Richard walked out the door following Skeet and the two of them disappeared into the night.  Anora stood watching until she could no longer see them.  Tears streaked her ivory cheeks as she felt she had lost her son to his destiny.

            She stood at the door for a long while, pondering and mulling the last two days in her mind.  She knew that life had forever changed now for her and her sons and all she could do was hold on to what she could.  She looked at Peter’s soft and gentle face, peaceful as he slept.  He too would never be the same.

            Peter stirred and slowly opened his eyes.  “Are you still up?  How long have I been sleeping here?”

            “Not long, son.  Perhaps we should both go to our beds.  It will be easier on our backs.”  She smiled down at him, his face so pale and innocent.

            Suddenly Peter bolted up.  “Where is Richard?  Did he leave with out waking me?  I wanted to tell him good bye before he left.”

            “He told me to say his good byes to you and for you to take care of the fields while he was gone.”  She reached over and put her hand on his shoulder.  “Now come, let us get to our beds.  It will be dawn before we know it and we both have a busy day tomorrow.”  They both hugged each other and went to their rooms.

            Morning came much faster than they wanted and both were in the kitchen at the same time.  “I will go feed the chickens, mother while you prepare our breakfast.  Would you like some fresh eggs too?”

            Anora smiled at him, “Yes that would be nice.  Then afterwards I must go into Paite and see Elise.  We have to plan our trip to Morga’s.  Would you like to come to town with me?”

            “Okay, but I must tend the livestock first.”  Peter quickly grabbed the feed basket and run out the door.

            He seems to have grown overnight she thought.  Yesterday he was a child and today a man.  Her heart filled with pride.

            Far to the west, Richard and Skeet were making good time.  Richard looked to the morning sky and saw the clear blue, another cloudless day.  His heart grew fearful of what that meant.  The townsfolk would never survive a drought this soon after the blight.  Perhaps mother was right and Tierk was behind all this.  He had to get to Hardorin and find out for sure.

            He wanted to be past the Sacred Forest of Light before nightfall.  Although the name of the forest was pleasant, much that lived there was not.  Night would be a very dangerous time to be passing through that forest.  Aunt Morga lived just beyond it in the Marshes, which too was not a very safe place at night but seemed a better risk as Richard had trained there with Hardorin often.  He was more familiar with the creatures good and bad that lived there.  He knew better on how to deal with them or hide from them if need be.  Skeet was acting as his aerial scout, searching and watching for any signs of danger ahead.  At this pace, he was sure to be at his Aunt Morga’s by morning.

            The air was growing cooler and the forest much thicker.  Soon night would be upon them and they were almost to the end of the Sacred Forest of Light.  The Marshes were just ahead when Skeet suddenly screeched in the sky above.  Richard quickly ducked into the shrubs and squatted down out of site.  He heard something approaching but it was a strange sound for these parts.  Whoever they were, they certainly were not hiding the fact they were there.  Grunting and laughing in deep husky voices, they stopped in front of Richard about fifteen yards away.  He could just make out their shape and recognized the colours of the Drummond guard uniforms.  However, what were wearing them were not the usual people.  They were squat and very husky with long hairy arms that hung almost to the ground as they walked.  Gruff and filthy, they seemed to be arguing amongst themselves about something.

            As Richard watched, he could barely make out what it was the three of them were pulling and ripping apart.  He was not too familiar with their kind.  They seemed half-animal and half human.  Their skin was rough, thick, and their eyes dark and very yellow.  Their nose broad and on their bottom jaw protruded two large teeth.  Drool and spittle dripped from their wide thick lips as they tugged and argued over their package.  It was then with horror, Richard realized what they had.  It was the leg of a human that appeared to be ripped from its owner’s torso.  He quickly turned his head in disgust and quietly moved away.  While they were fighting over their prize, he could make a silent and fast exit. 

            Very quickly, he made tracks from those creatures, but so many questions filled his thoughts.  This made his travel even faster.  He now felt a much more urgent need to speak with Hardorin.  An urgency to get home to his mother, brother, and his Elise, filled his heart with dread.  What if these beasts were headed towards any of his loved ones?  He had to hurry now, move faster than he had before.  All his energy was now focused on getting to Morga’s.  She must know something of this.

            It wasn’t long before he reached the Marshes.  Night had fallen and the creatures of the dark had emerged.  Now was the time for extra caution for what lived here in the night was far worse than the beasts he had seen earlier.  It would not be long now before he would reach Morga’s.  His stomach was still heaving at the thought of what he had seen earlier, but it fed his feet. 

            Skeet had come down closer to him now for it was very dark and Skeet’s vision was impaired at the higher altitude.  Richard looked up at him quite often to make sure he could be seen. 

            Off to the right of him he saw the lights of Morga’s hut.  The croaking of frogs was almost deafening here and he knew they were his Aunt’s lookouts.  When they stopped, she would instantly know someone or something was approaching.  Like clockwork, they stopped as Richard approached.  He smiled to himself when he saw a lantern move to the doorway.

            “Who dares to wake me from my slumber?” demanded a crackling old voice.  “I warn you, answer me, or suffer dearly.”  She was tall and very slim, grey hair hung down her back in long smooth waves like the waves of a spring waterfall.  Her face was wrinkled and rough from the years, but her grey eyes danced in the light of the lantern held by her long knotted fingers.  Her clothing was plain and fell just above her ankles, while around her shoulders wrapped a knitted black shawl. 

            Richard laughed, “Are you threatening me old Witch?  It is I who should be threatening you.”

            She lifted the lantern and laughed loudly.  “Richard!  Richard is that you my boy?  Oh Goddess be with me, you made good time here from home.”  She reached out for him with her free arm, hugging him around the neck.  “Goddess, just look at you.  I swear you have doubled in size since last fall.”  She pulled back looking him over.  “And you are a fine looking young man too,” she cackled and winked at him.  “I suppose all the maidens are dancing for your attention, hmmm?”  She was the oldest of the three sisters and in her day must have taken the breath away from many a young man herself.

            He smiled his broad handsome smile at her.  “And you dear sweet Auntie are the loveliest flower in the swamp.”  He hugged her once again and they walked into the hut while Skeet perched atop the doorway keeping watch.

            “Come sit by the fire son.  It is damp and chilly out there.  I’ll make you some hot tips to warm your insides.”  She leaned over the hearth and put a large pot of water on the fire.  Her face hardened as she turned back to Richard.  “Things are afoot out there, things that are not supposed to be.”  She walked over to the old rocker beside the hearth.  “I suppose you have seen some of the odd things haven’t you?”

            Sitting on the bench in front of the fire, Richard folded his hands together and stared at the flames as they danced up the side of the pot of water.  “So many things have changed around me these last days.”  He bent his head down and looked down at his hands.  “My heart is saddened by all of it.”

            “Ah, my dear boy, I have heard from your mother of your love.  I am so very sorry.  Destiny does not always bode kindness.”  Standing up she reached in a basket on top of the mantel.  From it, she took a handful of herbs and sprinkled them into the boiling pot.  “Some of us are not meant to have a love of our own my dear.”  She took a deep sigh as though she remembered someone from long ago.  “You are meant for other things like it or not.  You have a different path you must follow.  There are things only you can attain.”  She took two cups down from a shelf beside her chair.  Slowly she stirred the boiling pot, and scooped out the liquid into each cup.

            “You are destined for great things.  I have seen it and your Aunt Etrana has seen it.  We have seen much that is very disturbing.”  She handed Richard a cup.  “It is all in here.  All that we are is shown here for us to see and sometimes it is preferable not to see it.”  She held up a crystal, clear as a stilled brook.  Inside the very center of it glowed a soft pink cloud, pulsing like a gentle heart.  It was large, about a foot high and a half foot wide and the air around it seemed to vibrate with its strong energy.

            “This, my love, is the Crystal of Love.  Your Aunt Etrana is the keeper of the Crystal of Knowing.  The Crystal of Hope is your mother’s charge.”  She placed it back on the small table beside the hearth.  “They are the Tri-Narg’s power.  The three stones are linked to the Black Crystal at the High Drummond’s Castle.  With them, we keep the land safe and together.  With them, the land will prosper and all want will be satisfied.  However, as you know by now, the link has been broken.  The Black Crystal has been used by a male Drummond which will only cause evil.”  She sipped her cup and stared into the fire.  “Such a pity too, this land was so fertile.  I shall never understand why someone who has everything wants more.”

            Richard turned his head sideways and looked at the woman puzzled.  “You say my mother has the Crystal of Hope?  If that is so, I have never seen it.”

            The old woman smiled up at him.  “That is because you never looked for it.  It has been there with her all these years, but she did not use it.  She felt so guilty for leaving the Tri-Narg to marry the man she most loved.”  She let out a deep sigh.  “She did what her heart told her to do and followed what she felt and not what she was told.  I never told her this, but I always admired her for that.  Look at the happiness she obtained from doing that.  She married and loved the man of her dreams, had two wonderful children, and had a truly happy life though it was brief.  In that brief time she had more love and happiness than she could ever had achieved in a longer than usual life with the Tri-Narg.”

She stopped abruptly and wiped a tear from her cheek.  “None the less, what is happening now must be righted and things put back to the proper ways.”

            Richard put his cup on the floor.  “Mother said there are three young girls who are to be trained as the new Tri-Narg now and she will be training Elise to be High Drummond.  Is that correct?”

            “Yes, that is true.  My two pupils shall be here this afternoon to begin their training.  Your Aunt Etrana will be teaching the other, and as you know, your mother the rightful High Drummond.”

            Richard carefully chose his words.  “Is it not also true that this only happens when one or more of the current Tri-Narg will die?”

            His Aunt’s eyes flashed at him sharply.  “Why do you ask?”

            He placed his hand on hers, “I fear I will loose one of you and I am not ready for any of you to leave just yet.”

            Tears clouded the old woman’s eyes as her face softened and she looked at his questioning expression.  “Yes, it is true.  We also know who is to die too, but do not ask for I cannot tell you.”  She pulled her hand back and stood up quickly pouring more of the boiling brew into his cup and hers.  “It is destiny and has been foreseen by us all.  We all know who will die and when.”

            Richard’s heart felt as though it would stop beating.  He lost his Elise to her destiny and knows he would loose someone else who is very dear to him.  How much pain would the Goddess give him before this was finished.  He took the cup from his Aunt and slowly sipped it in silence.  He knew she would not tell him no matter how hard he begged her.  He let it go, understanding it was meant to be.

            “Come, drink up.  I will fix you some food and then you must rest.  Hardorin will be here later today with my two charges.  You can return to the Tower of Light with him.”  She turned and began to prepare him a meal.

            Richard sat on the bench staring into the flames thinking of what has gone by and what may come.  He had many questions for Hardorin and a good sleep would clear his head.

            Once he finished his meal and lay on the small bed he slowly drifted off to sleep and dreamt of Elise with her soft skin and sweet smelling hair flowing in the wind as she danced in circles in front of him.  As he slipped softly into slumber, he could see her gentle smile and his love filled him up.

CHAPTER FOUR

            It was growing late and the night shadows were beginning to fall across the fields.  Richard held Elise in his arms as they lay beneath the large oak.  He closed his eyes and silently wished for this moment to never end, let him hold her like this for eternity, but he knew it could not.  He slowly moved her tussled hair from her eyes and kissed her softly on the forehead.  She opened her eyes and, gently smiling, looked up at him.

            “Soon we will be together for always and we will never have to say goodbye again.”  She rolled over on her side and faced him.  “How long will you be gone to Blane?”

            Richard moved over on his side as well.  “I should only be gone a couple of weeks.  I am sure Hardorin will have some answers.  I really do not want to be too long.  I have just finished seeding the fields and want to make sure they are okay.”  He brushed the side of her cheek.  “Besides, I think we should marry very soon.  After making love to you tonight, I think it is only proper.”

            She reached to him and kissed him.  “Oh, I wish we could do this every night.”

            Richard smiled, “Do not worry about that, once we are married I will not leave you alone for long.”  He grabbed her around the waist and they laughed as they rolled through the grass.  “Now I think we should get back before they suspect we are up to something.  I want to get back before it gets too dark.  That poor old mare doesn’t see well in the daylight let alone at night.”  He jumped up and gave her his hand to help her up.  She wrapped herself around him once again and kissed him.  Then the two of them ran back to the store.

            The cart was all packed and Peter had hitched the mare all by himself, with the watchful eye of Domi of course.  Anora stood by the cart smiling as Richard and Elise came running back.  Peter climbed up in back and Domi helped Anora up front.  They chatted about this and that meaning absolutely nothing. 

            Quietly Anora whispered to Domi, “Remember, tonight, you must explain everything to her tonight.  I will come for her in two weeks time, when Richard returns and will gather with Morga and Etrana to arrange for her training.”  Domi bowed his head from her gaze.  Placing her frail hands around his face, she lifted it to her.  “You must do this Domi!  Our lives, the lives of the villagers depend upon it.  Promise me you will do this tonight once we are gone.”

            The big man looked so weak and torn.  His eyes began to well up and he nodded, “Yes I promise I will tell her tonight.” 

            Anora pulled his large head to her and kissed his forehead.  “I too will loose my sons after tonight, dear friend, but we knew this day would always be upon us.”  At that, she sat up straight in the seat and looked over a Richard and Elise as they starred into one another eyes.  The love they shared was captivating and brought back so many memories of Pendor.  It broke her heart to know what lay ahead of them and wondered if they would ever be truly together. 

            Richard and Elise hugged each other as he bent over the side of the cart.  “I will come to see you as soon as I return.”  Everyone waved and called their farewells and the little cart packed full of supplies, creaked away down the road.

            All three of them were quiet on the trip back not speaking at all.  They seemed lost in their thoughts of what was to come.  Finally, they reached their farm and each began to unload the cart.  Once empty, Richard took the mare to the barn, watered, and fed her.

            When he returned to the house, the lanterns were lit and Peter and Anora were busy putting away the goods while Skeet sat on the back of the large armchair.  Peter had already built a fire in the hearth and the room was warm and cozy.  Anora made tea and gave a plate of seed to Skeet. 

            Richard sat down in the armchair next to Skeet and Anora and Peter sat as well.  Both of the boys looked at their mother anticipating what she so urgently wanted to tell them.

            Anora took a deep breath and began.  “You have both heard of the Talsine and how it was formed to help the High Drummond keep the land in prosperity and safe.  It is comprised of the Tri-Narg and the High Drummond.  They have always been female for the Black Crystal only generates good to females.”  She rose her hand as Peter was about to speak.  “Please let me finish and then we will discuss what ever questions you may have.”  Richard looked on intently not saying a word.

            “It has happened through out history that a male has taken the role when no female heir was born.  It was then his duty to keep things stable, until such time he would wed and produce a female child.  Once the child was old enough and trained by the Tri-Narg, the female would then take over as High Drummond.  Together with the Tri-Narg, she would rule the country.

            “As you both know, the High Drummond passed some time ago.  The nature of her death has always been questioned but nothing ever proven.  Some feel it was because the Tri-Narg split apart causing the High Drummond to weaken and succumb to illness.  While together, nothing could overcome the power of the Talsine.  Together they were a mighty force and because their force had been proven against many foes in history, they were never challenged.  Our country flourished and all the neighbouring countries flourished as well.

            “The Tri-Narg are three sisters of the same mother.  Usually the mother was a Tri-Narg herself, but it is not necessary.  These three sisters are gifted with the sight and magic at birth.  Once these sisters are born however, it is known either all or one of the current Tri-Narg will soon die.  It then becomes very apparent that training for the new three should begin.  Unfortunately, there is only one thing that can kill a Tri-Narg, the Sword of Truth.  Hardorin is keeper of this sword and sworn to protect it with his life.”  She paused to take a sip of her tea.  “Although the sword is still in Hardorin’s care, it still does not mean this is where it will stay.  Omens and messages were sent to the Tri-Narg lately of the on coming event.  They cannot tell which it will be that dies or if all three will die.  Three sisters were found by your Aunts and are now starting their training.  I must begin to train another.”  Both Richard and Peter starred at their mother is disbelief, knowing what she had just told them.  Tears formed in Anora’s eyes.  “I was a young girl, the youngest of the three.  While in town one day, I met this handsome man.  He was so strong and had such a kind smile.  I was instantly smitten and fell deeply in love with him.  He courted me and came to my door so often.  My mother knowing my destiny as one of the Tri-Narg, constantly turned him away.  However, as love touches the hearts of the young, I could not resist.  We began to meet in secret and then decided to marry anyway.  I turned from my vows as part of the Talsine and married your father.  He did not know I was Tri-Narg until after we decided to wed.  By then it was too late as I was carrying you, Richard, and marriage was our only option.  It was only a year after you were born that the High Drummond’s health began to fail.  I blamed myself for it, but I loved your father so.”  She stopped to wipe the tears from her eyes.  “I was so tortured when she died and your father was too.  We both carried such guilt for the sacrifice of our love.  I went to see my sisters after the High Drummond’s death and they tried to assure me I was not to blame, but I knew if I had stayed with my vows and my duty, this would not have happened.  For many years, I lived with the scars of it before I finally understood just what it was.  It was not me but an evil force that slowly drained her from her life essence.  It could only have been the black crystal.  However, the black crystal could not do this by itself; it would need someone to help it.  Someone else is behind all this and it is the Drummond Tierk, I fear.

            “Tierk has discovered the black crystal and somehow the way to use it in evil.  It was hidden deep within the castle and could only be accessed by secret chanting.  How he accomplished this, we do not know.  With that evil, he destroyed his mother, but now he seeks to destroy the Tri-Narg.  We are the only thing in his way of total domination of the country and possibly the neighbouring countries. If just one of us is killed, the power of the Tri-Narg can easily be challenged with the power of the black crystal.”

            Richard had to speak and when his mother raised her hand he shook his head, “No, I must speak here.  What you are telling us is that you are part of the Tri-Narg and could possibly be killed at any time.  You must let me say something here.”  She stopped and let him go on.  “What are we to do then?  How can we protect you and our Aunts from this doom that awaits you?  There must be something or you would not be telling us all this.”

            “So true my sweet, so true.  A few things can be done.  Firstly, you must go and aid Hardorin with the safekeeping of the Sword of Truth.  Tierk must never get it.  There is another part of this story yet to tell you and I worry how you will take its telling.”  She looked at Richard and took a deep breath.  “The High Drummond was with child when she became ill.  All believe the child died with her, but that is not true.  A female child was born to her a few weeks before she died.  Arrangements were made to send the child away to another family and hide her until she was of age.  The High Drummond was certain it was Tierk trying to kill her and wanted to hide the child from him for she knew he would kill the child too.  A few days after the birth, a servant took the child and was told to leave it at a certain spot in the woods.  There a man would collect her and give her to a loving family to raise as their own.  This all went according to plan and the young girl still lives.  When you return from Hardorin’s in two weeks, I will go collect her and take her to my sisters’ where we will begin her training as High Drummond.  If we can put her on the throne before Tierk can kill her, or us, things should straighten out.  I will be gone for most of the summer months and you and Peter will have to tend the farm alone.”

            “So what are you not telling me mother?  I can tell by your expression that there is more to this.”  Richard hardened his jaw.

            Anora clenched her hands and looked up at him slightly turning her head.  Her face full of pain she answered.  “Elise is the High Drummond’s daughter.”

            Peter sat there in shock looking first at his mother then at Richard.  His heart was breaking in two for his brother and in the distance; he could hear the screams of a woman in torment.  Looking at his mother, he saw she heard it as well as the tears began to roll down her face.  He bent is head and put his hands to his forehead.

            “Domi is telling Elise this same story as I speak to you now.  What you hear are her cries of sadness.  You both have part of my gifts and can hear and see things that others cannot.  It is not as strong in you because you are male, but you still have some of it none the less.”  She wiped her eyes.  “You can both still be together.  Once this is all settled…”

            “But we can never be married!”  Richard’s tone was full of rage.  “I can be her mate for a while, but never her husband.  Or have you forgotten the High Drummond could never marry?  She just takes a mate from time to time.”

            “But you can be that mate, Richard.  I am sure the Tri-Narg will see no wrong in that.”  She tried desperately to sooth him.  “You will still be together.”

            He looked at her with tears in his eyes, his heart shattered, “But what of the life we planned together, here on our farm.  What of the love and family we wanted?  We can never have that now.  If you knew all this before, why did you not tell us?  Why did you just let us fall in love only to be hurt?”  He got up quickly.  “I cannot believe you would do this.  Why?”  He pushed the chair back and it tipped over onto the floor sending Skeet into the air and then stormed out the door.  Skeet went to fly after him but Anora yelled at Skeet to stop.

            “Let him be, Skeet.  He needs to be alone to take all this in.”  Skeet stopped and landed on the table making a soft chirping sound.  “I know he hurts right now, but let him work it out.”  She turned to Peter, “Come, help me prepare supplies for Richard’s journey tomorrow.”  She and Peter got up and began to put things together for the next morning’s journey Richard was to take.

            Outside beside the barn Richard sat on the ground with his hands over his eyes.  He was crying like a small boy and in his mind, he could here the sobs of brokenhearted Elise as she lay on her bed.  Looking up to the stars, he prayed to his father for strength.

            Domi sat at the kitchen table with glass and bottle drinking the dark liquor hoping it would deafen his ears from the sounds of his daughter as she cried herself to sleep.

            

Three

 CHAPTER THREE

            North of Munten stood Drummond Castle; glimmering polished marble slabs danced the sunlight from their smooth surfaces.  In a window, high in the tower stood a large dark figure, hands clasped behind him, staring out over the land with black hate filled eyes.  His clothing was of the finest silks, tunic and pants of deep purple.  His hair shone like a polished jet stone in the sunlight that flooded the enormous room.

            A servant quietly pushed the huge oak doors open and silently placed a tray of fruits, bread, and flask of wine on the small table beside the tall dark man.  Bowing, the servant silently moved back and out of the wooden doors as quietly as he had entered.  All this time the tall dark man did not once acknowledge the servant’s presence.  Turning, he sat in the large high-back chair beside the small table and poured himself some wine.  Sitting there, he stared down into the goblet at the dark creature looking back at him in the reflection.  Quickly he took the goblet to his mouth and drank it all down.

            Anger filled his chest as he thought of his mother.  “She deceived me, that witch.  She hid her child.”  Quickly he poured another goblet of wine.  “Did she really think she could do this without me finding out?  What a fool she was.  No wonder she crumbled so quickly under my powers.”  Again, he emptied the goblet at one swallow.

            Getting up, he walked back to the window, eyes searching, mind racing with plans and ideas.  “I must find her.  If she comes forward, she will claim the throne from me and all will be lost.  I must destroy her now, quickly.”

            He returned to the chair and grabbing a piece of fruit, remembered back when his plan first began. 

            Tierk was the first born of the High Drummond, but because he was a male child, things were not well.  Only females became High Drummond, unless of course, there were no female heirs. 

            Tierk was a very spoiled child and doted on by his mother, the High Drummond.  She took him everywhere with her and proudly showed him off to the entire county.  He never knew his father.  He had been killed in battle only a few months before Tierk was born, but his mother tried hard to be both for him.  She loved him dearly, but soon it could be seen, too dearly.  He became demanding and spoiled.  If Tierk did not get his way, he would fly into uncontrollable rages, throwing anything in his reach, and usually at the servants.  He became mean and selfish and turned spiteful toward his mother.  Tierk rarely smiled or laughed then, and was always angry.

            Time went on and he soon discovered his mother’s magic.  One night on the full of the moon, he silently followed her, discovering her secret room.  He always knew of this room but was never allowed in or even told of its location.  He detested the fact he had been kept from the knowledge of this.  On this night, he decided he would now find out where it was. 

            Hiding in the dark shadows of the huge castle corridors, he quietly followed the Drummond.  He kept as stealth as he could completely unnoticed by her.  Down stairs and deep into the lower regions of the castle where he had never ever ventured before, he followed.  At last, they had reached a wall, a plain blank wall with no particular interest on it.  Standing there his mother raised her arms and chanted three names, “Etrana, Morga, and Anora.  The three who are the key, I ask this door be opened, be opened to me.”  Slowly the wall began to move to one side dragging stone on stone.  Once opened far enough, she slipped through and the wall moved shut.  Tierk sat there waiting for what seemed like hours for her to return.  As he began to doze off, the young boy awakened by the sound of dragging stone and through the small opening, his mother again appeared, walking almost upon him, not even noticing him.  He waited a bit longer to make sure she was not returning, got up, and stood in front of the wall.  He scanned his memory trying to remember the chant.  He tried it several times then finally the wall began to move.  Hurriedly, he slipped through the opening.

            As he entered, his eyes filled with the glorious sparkles and glitters of all the sacred objects around him, many he had heard about through out his child years in stories and tales his mother had told him.  He had begun to disbelieve her when he reached his teen years, dismissing them as only child’s tales, but now his eyes could not believe what lay before him.  On a large altar lay the double-edged golden sword, the greatest power against all other power.  Goblets, trinkets of many legends, jewels of magic, and so much more, before him were things that could give him anything he desired.  There, at the centre of the expansive room, was the Crystal of Drummond, the source of his mother’s power, the High Drummond’s power.  It glimmered in the torch light almost beckoning him to it. Much larger than he thought it would be, it stood almost five feet high and two feet across, black as night but still transparent.  Reaching up, he slowly and cautiously touched it.  Immediately the coldness of the stone began to tingle up his fingers and into his arm.  Surprised, he quickly withdrew his hand.  There was a slight ringing coming from the stone as it stood in front of him daring him to feel its power once more.  Again he reached but with both hands, and placed his palms flat against the dark glass like crystal. 

            Closing his eyes he felt the power surging into him, penetrating every part of his body and mind, feeding him and feeding from him.  It was almost orgasmic.  He felt as though the stone and he had become one and as he opened his eyes, he could see he was inside, completely enveloped by it.  The rush of power was amazing and energizing as he stood inside the crystal absorbing all the power of it.  He liked this and wanted more, but he suddenly found himself sitting on the floor in front of the crystal, staring up at it.

            A broad grin crossed his face as he realized he was now much stronger and for some reason much wiser.  Standing up, he noticed a chip of the crystal lay at his feet.  Picking it up, he held it to the light of the torches.  Inside a cloud rolled around, turning red.  Again, he felt the power of the crystal tingling up his arm.  This he would keep with him always, he thought.  It would be his connection to the main Crystal and always be part of him.  Quickly he stuck it in his pocket and left the room.  Silently he snuck back to his room and lay on his bed looking at the chip of crystal in his hand.  Now he had much to learn and much to plan.

            The months and nights passed and Tierk visited the secrets of the black crystal as often as he could.  He planned on how to gain control over all.  He wanted it, needed it as much as he needed to breath.  Then the devastating news of his mother’s pregnancy came.  If she gave birth to a female child, all would be lost.  A way to stop her had to be conceived.  Consulting with the black crystal each night he could get away, he decided to induce a power over his mother to make her miscarry.  Working feverishly each night with the crystal, he caused his mother to become ill.  She suffered from severe stomach pain and high fevers.  All were very concerned as he stood back and smiled to himself.  He was learning to harness the crystal’s power now.  It would not be long before he could take over everything.

            Upon returning to the room one evening, he noticed the Golden Sword of Truth was missing.  He panicked and searched everywhere for it.  “That Bitch!” he swore, “Where has she put it.?  What has she done with it?”  He stormed from the room and to his mother’s chambers in a rage.  He would strangle it out of her.  Blasting into the room, all the servants scattered.  They all knew and feared his rages and temper.

            Looking down at his mother in her bed, eyes black with anger, he screamed at her, “Where is the Sword?  What have you done with it?”

            She slowly opened her eyes and looked at him with such a power in her eyes he had never seen before.  It was a look of someone he did not know and he stepped back from the bed.

            “Dare not my wrath,” she whispered.  “I am not dead yet.  Now go from here.  I do not want to ever lay eyes upon you again.”  She raised her hand and twitched it towards him, throwing him across the room with unseen force.  “Go from here and never return.  I renounce you as my flesh and blood.”  She turned her head back and closed her eyes.

            Tierk sat there speechless, hurt, and in shock.  Quickly he got up and grabbed the servant next to him.  Viciously he bit her cheek taking out a large chunk of flesh and spat it on the floor, throwing the innocent woman across the room, then ran from the room leaving the servant screaming in pain as the others gathered around her.

            Tierk quickly ran to the crystal room, his heart now intent on killing his mother and sibling.  She has betrayed him and now she will die.  He paced back and forth in front of the radiating black stone trying to think of a way to find the sword.  Where would she have put it?  The Tri-Narg had something to do with this he was sure.  Whom would they trust with the Sword of Truth?  Where would they put it to keep it safe?  It had to be Hardorin, that crazy wizard.  He must be the one who has it.  There must be a way to get it back from him.  He walked to the crystal and softly touched it.  The cloud within began to boil and swirl turning deep blood red.  In it, Tierk could see the Tower of Truth where the sword lay on its purple cushion.  He would get it soon, but first he must deal with his dear mother.  Turning swiftly he left the chamber.

            In his mother’s room the servants had left except one, Secha, her faithful and devoted maid in waiting sat beside her mistress’ bed quietly watching the High Drummond sleep.  As she straightened the ruffled covers, Tandra, the High Drummond, softly took Secha’s hand.  “I must speak with the Tri-Narg and as soon as possible.  This child will be born soon and Tierk must not know.  Arrangements must be made for the child’s safety.  I am too weak to call them.”  She took a deep ragged breath.  “You must send word to one of them to make arrangements for me.  Go quickly my sweet; this child wants to be born now.”  She turned her head back to her pillow.

            Secha moved quickly to the door of the bedchamber and called in another servant to watch over her mistress while she put on her cape and flew from the room, down the corridor and out of the castle.  In less than an hour, she came upon the farmhouse.  There was still light in the windows and she ran and knocked on the door.

            Pendor opened the door with a stern look on his face, “What brings you to my door at such a late hour young woman?”

            Secha trying to catch her breath, “I must speak with Anora.  It is of utmost importance Sir.  I am sent by the High Drummond.”

            Pendor’s face went pale as he quickly brought the young woman into the house.  Sitting her down on a chair, he gave her a cup of water.  “Anora is putting our son to sleep.  I will get her.”  He turned swiftly to the other room.

            Anora came out straightening her hair and looking at the young girl, began to move even faster toward her.  “What is it?  What is so wrong to bring you all the way here at such a late hour, Secha?”  Anora knelt beside Secha’s chair.  She instantly knew who Secha was.  It had to be something urgent for her to come all this way.

            In a blabbering mess and tears, Secha related the story of what had happened that night with the High Drummond.  Anora did not realize how sick the High Drummond had become and quickly guilt began to fill her soul.  As Secha choked out the story, Anora stroked her hand and hair trying to sooth the woman.  “She says the child is coming now and we have to get it to safety as soon as we can.  She wants you and the other Tri-Narg to make arrangements.  Oh, I am so worried for my mistress.  It is only because of the child she holds on to life.  I fear she will die soon after the child is born.”  She covered her face in her hands and sobbed uncontrollably.

            Pendor stood beside Anora as she turned and looked at him.  Her eyes were full of guilt and desperation.  Pendor turned to the door gathering his coat.  “I will go fetch Hardorin.  He is in Paite staying with Domi.  He must be alerted as soon as possible.”  He swiftly went out the door.

            Anora handed Secha a cloth to wipe her eyes and another cup of water.  “Please, stay here with Richard.  He is sleeping and should not wake.  Just keep an eye out for him.  I must try to contact my sisters.”  She had a worried look on her face.  “It has been a long time since I have tried this so it may take a couple of times.”  She got up and went out the door into the star filled night.

            Pacing back and forth in front of the barn, she tried to calm her mind.  So many things were running through her mind now and the guilt for what may be her doing filled her heart.  She stopped pacing and stood very still, closing her eyes, and deep breathing.  She called in her mind, to her sisters, repeating over and over their names.  “Morga, Etrana, please hear me.”  She repeated it again and suddenly she heard their voices running through her head.  Both were very surprised and excited causing a blurring mess of sound and noise in her head.  Slowly they settled and after they greeted her, she began to relay the tale of the servant.  Both were very alarmed and concerned.

            “We must take the child out quickly,” replied Morga.  “We knew of this for sometime now, dear sister.  We wanted to tell you but thought you would not listen to us.  Oh, how we have missed you.”

            “Never mind all the sentiment now, Morga.  She knows we miss her.  We have to get Hardorin in action with our plan.”  Etrana was the oldest and always the matriarch of the three.

            Anora answered, “So you have a plan already?  Hardorin is prepared for this?”

            Etrana cleared her throat, “Well he is arranging it now, we hope.  He is talking with Domi and his wife.  We are hoping they will take the child.  Tierk would never look for her there.”

            “It is a girl then?” asked Anora.

            “Oh yes,” replied Morga.  “We have known of this for sometime now.  I fear after tonight, Tierk may try something more than just pain on his mother.  We fear he may try to kill her now she has disowned him.  He is evil Anora, very evil.  We have suspected him using the crystal for some time.  The Sword has been moved into Hardorin’s keeping.  Now the child must be moved before Tierk knows it is even born.”

            Anora’s heart was breaking, “This is my fault.  I should never have denied my vows.  Now so much trouble has started.  If I had just fulfilled my destiny as it was to be.”

            “Do not be so foolish girl,” snapped Etrana.  “You are fulfilling your destiny.  Even with you here, Tierk still would have found and abused the black crystal.  We do not have as much control over our destiny as you may think.  We play out our role, as it is to be.  We have no say in that.  You were to marry Pendor for a reason.  That is all there is to it.  That is your destiny.  Now, when Hardorin comes back with Pendor tell him to begin.  Tandra will give birth tonight, the signs have been sent for it.  He must get the child out as soon as he can.  He knows what to do.”

            

Two

            The morning air was chilly as Peter and Richard headed off to the fields.  Peter’s hair still tousled around as if a whirlwind had designed it.  Richard was so pleased to have him helping with the seeding.  He knew Peter was not a strong boy but his heart made up for it.  He loved him dearly and was happy to have him for company today.  There was much to do before Richard could travel to see Hardorin.  This seeding would have to be completed and supplies must be obtained from Paite before he could leave.

            Peter pulled the old mare behind him as the two brothers walked quickly to the field.  “I am going to be leaving for a couple of weeks.  I must travel to see Hardorin and speak with him on an urgent matter.  Will you be alright to take care of things while I am gone?”  Richard looked down to his younger brother.

            Peter looked very concerned at Richard.  “Is there something wrong, Richard?  I know there must be.  You and mother seem to be talking quietly so I do not hear you.”  His face became very serious.  “I am quite old enough to know about things now.  Maybe I could even help you in some way.”  He stopped and looked up to his older brother.  “I am not a child so much now.  I know much more than you and mother give me credit for and I am not stupid.  I know I will never be as strong and tall as you or most men for that matter.  However, I do have a brain and I tend to use it more than most because I am not physically able.  Please Richard, do not shut me out because of my size.  Yes, my body is weak, but my brain is that much more the stronger.”  He gently grabbed Richard’s arm.  “Please let me help in the way that is suitable for me to help?”

            Richard was taken back a moment by his brother’s words.  He studied the slight youth and then realized what he had said was true.  His body may be weak, but his brain certainly was not.  There were times in the past where Peter had done some very clever problem solving with planting plans or equipment repairs.  Peter, pampered because he was slight and pale, was a young man now emerging from behind those dark sunken blue eyes.  “You never cease to amaze me Peter.  You are right and I promise not to treat you as a child anymore.  After all, you will be in charge when I do go.”  The two brothers sat down on the tilled soil.  “I will tell you all that I know.  Firstly, things are not as they should be.  If you look around you, you will see that there are oddities about the land and sky.  There are no clouds anymore and very few birds.  The land is dried and brown and the soil is dead.”  Richard picked up a handful and held it to Peter’s nose.  “Smell this.  It just smells like death.”  Peter bent to the soil in Richard’s hand and after taking a deep breath, made a face.  “Do you see what I mean?  There are so many things not right including the strange fever that killed father.  I do not like the feeling I have in my stomach and mother has noticed as well.”  Richard dropped the soil from his hand.  “I have decided to go to Hardorin and speak with him.  Perhaps he has some answers.  I will leave the day after tomorrow.”

            Peter’s face was that of a concerned young man.  “I understand now what you and mother were talking about.  I wish I could go with you but I know I must stay here with mother and watch over her.  So let us get this seeding done today.”

            They both stood up and began walking quickly to the fields pulling the mare behind them.  “We will go to Paite tomorrow and collect enough supplies for you and mother while I am gone.”  A softer look washed over Richard’s face.  “I would like to go see Elise and tell her I will be gone a few weeks too.”  A slight blush coloured his cheeks and Peter chuckled.  “And I want to let Uncle Jarkat know I will be gone as well.”  Richard pulled back his shoulders and held up his head trying to hide his embarrassment over mentioning Elise.

            The two young men worked hard all day seeding the fields.  Richard would stop more often than he needed, to give Peter a chance to rest without feeling like a burden.  By early evening, they had finished and the two stood at the end of the field with hands on hips feeling rather good about their work.  Richard put his hand on Peter’s shoulder and told him he could not have completed it all alone and this was the truth.  For the first time Richard now realized Peter was no longer a child.

            When the two brothers had reached the barn, they saw their mother standing at the door of the house.  Peter took the horse into the barn and gave her hay and water while Richard went on to the house to see what it was that had their mother anxious for their return.

            As Richard entered the house, a large bird swooped down and landed on his shoulder.  “Skeet!  What are you doing here?”  The green and yellow bird squawked with excitement.  “Okay, calm down.”  Richard walked over to the table and sat at one of the large armchairs. 

            “He got here about an hour ago and has been drinking and eating ever since.  If Hardorin sent him, he told him not to stop until he got here.”  Anora’s voice held concern.

            Skeet was Hardorin and Richard’s messenger.  He looked somewhat odd but majestic at the same time.  A very rare kind of bird, some say magical, he had bright green feathers on his back and wings, but the stomach a face were painted lemon yellow.  His tail was almost three feet long and had at least a three or four foot wingspan, but his body was the size of a small bird.  Richard had named him Skeet after the shrill and loud squawking sounds he made.

            “Okay my friend, what news do you bring?”  Richard asked the bird.

            “Hardorin requests you come at once.  He needs urgently to speak with you.”  Richard and the bird had a mental contact that was unique to this bird.  If you bonded with it and it with you, then it would communicate mentally with you.  “There is trouble coming from Drummond, very evil trouble my friend.”

            Richard looked up at his mother gravely.  “It seems what we have been feeling is correct after all.  Hardorin has sent for me.”  He got up from the chair and the bird hopped down to the table.  “I was already coming.  I am off to Paite tomorrow for supplies and was going to leave tomorrow night.”

            “This is good.  We can leave straight away when you return from Paite then.”  The bird began to peck at a plate of grain on the table set there earlier for him.  “Now I must rest.  I have travelled non-stop to get here and I need some sleep.  I will go up to the rafters and be out of the way, okay?”

            “That will be fine,” answered Richard as he stroked the back feathers of the bird.  “Thank you for coming Skeet.  It is good to see you again.”

            The bird hopped up on Richard’s shoulder, brushed his cheek with his bill, and flew into the rafters.  There he tucked his head under a wing and fell asleep.

            Peter was standing in the doorway when Richard and his mother looked up.  “So what you suspected is true then.  Something is out of place.”

            “Yes, it seems so.”  Richard walked over to the window and looked out at the first sign of the stars.  “I told Peter all of what we were discussing.  He is old enough to understand now and should know what is happening in this household.”  Richard looked back at his mother.  She smiled with understanding and walked over to Peter, putting an arm around him.  “As he said to me, he may be weak but he is not stupid.”  The three of them began to laugh together.  Richard suspected it was the first laughter heard in that house for two years.

            The following morning they were all up and ready to go before the sun had first peaked over the horizon.  While having breakfast, they had made a list of what they would need and Anora pulled out the last of their coins.  “This should more than cover what we need.  Whatever is leftover you will take with you, Richard, for you journey.  When you get to Blane, stop in to see your Aunt Morga.  She will give you supplies and more coin for your return.  Do not worry about asking for coins from her.  She has more than she could ever spend in this lifetime and will have no objection in giving more than you need.”  She looked down at the coins on the table.  “Besides, if the crops fail, we will need as much as she can give to keep the farm.”

            “She is right, you know.  That old witch needs for nothing,” added Skeet, “all the local people give very generously to her for her services and healing.”

            Richard suggested for Skeet to stay at the farm while they went to Paite. Skeet could use the extra sleep and be well rested to leave that night.  He agreed.

            Peter went about hitching the mare to the cart and threw in some blankets as well as the small bag of food his Mother had prepared to take with them.  Richard was at the well filling the skin with water.  When all was prepared, the sun had just begun to paint the landscape with a golden glow, accenting the brown of the dried trees and grass.  It was an eerie beauty, which sent a chill through Richard. It had become obvious now that things were not as they should be.  Richard could feel it deep in his spirit and even touch it in the air.  Evil was at play here, but who and why?

            The ride to the village was short and they could easily have walked it had they not had to bring back supplies.  Many evenings Richard walked this road to town to visit Elise.  She was the mainstay in his life since his father’s death, comforting, and supporting him through all the bad times.  He loved her deeply and he knew she loved him.  One day soon they would marry and together bring the farm back to the glory it once had been.

            He closed his eyes and saw her standing in front of him, milk white skin, long golden hair, blue eyes that melted his heart, and a smile that would warm any man on the coldest of winter nights.  Elise lived with her father in Paite.  Her mother had died of fever several years ago and Elise’s father raised her alone.  They ran a small market store selling goods they purchased from local farmers and artisans.  Their store was a strong support for most through harsh winters or summer droughts and helped to pull through many hungry families.  Domi, Elise’s father, was a very well respected merchant and a very kind and generous man.  Every time Richard visited, Domi would ask him when he would be taking Elise away from him.  “I really wish you would take her off my hands.  She is such a bother to me,” he would often laugh.  Elise would turn pink and Richard would shake his head, “I am not so sure I need such a burden myself.”  They would both laugh and Elise, now not only embarrassed, but very angry, would stomp out of the room with Richard close behind her, catching her in his arms.  Kissing her softly on the forehead, he would hold her tightly.  Apologizing for his unforgiving rudeness, he would tell her how he could not wait to share his life with her and of his love.  As always, she would forgive him and they would kiss.  He was beginning to believe it was not anger that drove her from the room anymore.  She was very much a woman now, and learning the clever ways of one at that.

            The early morning sun was hot and the dust stirred up by the wheels of the cart was choking.  Richard took a deep drink from the water skin and handed it to Peter.  “This dust is too much, have some water.”  Peter also drank deeply and then passed it to his mother.  The buildings were now visible and they were almost there.  “We will have to be quick about our business and no lingering, I am afraid.  I must set out as soon as possible tonight.”

            “It is so bad now, Richard.”  His mother’s voice was only that of a whisper.  “The power of someone evil is destroying everything around us.”  She clutched her hands to her chest.  “When we return to the farm, we must talk Richard.  There is something very important I must tell you.  Now is not the time, please do not ask.”  She held up her hand to him to stop his reply.  Looking at Peter, “and you will also be told of this.  You both have the right to know of it.”  She took the water skin and drank deeply.

            Peter sat quietly beside Richard with his mouth slightly open.  He felt proud to be included in this, but fear also was stirring in his veins.  He always seemed to sense there was a quality of secrecy about his mother and her past, but he knew he should not ask, and only wait for her to tell of it.  Now he would finally know and he was not so sure he wanted to.

            Rattling and creaking, the old cart came to the main road of Paite.  The village was quiet and the dry breeze blew puffs of dust up from the road.  Some of the townsfolk were sitting on their front porches and some slowly walking to the assortment of different shops on the main road, but there seemed to be little sound and a dark feeling of dread hung in the air. 

            Richard brought the cart to a halt just outside the small general store owned by Domi.  They all climbed out of the cart and slowly looking around the main street, entered the store.  Domi stood behind his counter writing in a ledger.  After putting down his pen, he looked up and his eyes and smile grew wide.

            “Anora, Peter, and Richard!”  Opening his arms, he came out from behind the counter and hugged Anora.  “It has been too long since I last saw you.  How have you been?”

             “I am well, Domi.  I just keep on going, what else is there to do.”  Anora smiled at him and hugging him back softly kissed his cheek.  “It is so quiet, Domi.  It seems like death is stalking the streets.”

            “Aye, it does.  I can not explain it, just a feeling that drifts in the air, a feeling of doom that you can feel but cannot quite explain.”  He took her by the arm and led her to the entranceway of the back of the store and the living quarters.  “Come, Elise can make some tea for us and we can catch up.”  Waving at Peter and Richard he said, “You two carry on and get what you need.  We will tally it later.  I must talk with your mother a while.  It has been too long.”  He then followed Anora through the doorway and closed the curtain that hid the other side.

            Richard and Peter began to gather supplies and Peter chuckled to himself as he watched Richard glancing occasionally at the curtain.  “Do not worry big brother.  Elise will be there when we have finished here.  I am sure she is just as anxious to see you.”  Peter began to laugh as Richard moved faster.

            Domi led Anora to a chair by the table and Elise came running out of another room and hugged her very hard.  Anora laughed at the excited greeting from her and then holding her back looked at her up and down.

            “Elise, I cannot believe how you have grown!  Look at you now, a beautiful woman and no longer that freckled face girl with the dirty shirt with skinned knees.”  Anora was astonished how much she had changed.

            Elise blushed at the thought of her not so long ago youth and began to laugh.  “If only I can be as beautiful as you, Anora.  You glow with such radiance.”

            They all sat at the table and began to catch up on the news of the town, which for the most part was not really news.  Much of the feelings Anora and Richard shared seemed to be felt in the town as well.  Everyone was concerned with the dry spring and possible drought.

            “Many of the town folk are moving closer to Munten believing there will be more safety by the castle.  I think that is just the opposite.”  Domi sipped his tea.  “Something is not right there.  Since the High Drummond passed away and her son Tierk took over as Drummond, things just seem to be getting worse.  I feel it is something to do with him.  We need a High Drummond again, but for Tierk to marry and produce a female heir, well who would have him let alone sleep with him.  Spoiled bully I say, and always was.”

            Anora looked up at him through her eyelashes, a sudden feeling of dismay running through her body.  “It is rumoured there is a female child that was born in secrecy by the late High Drummond.”

            Domi starred at Anora in shock.  Turning to Elise, he pointed to the doorway for the shop, “Go see what those two are up to.  Maybe they are eating me out of business.”  He waved her to the door.  “I will be out there shortly.”

            Elise got up and quickly went into the shop, anxious to see Richard.

            “Please, Anora, do not talk of that here.  She does not know and I do not want her to find out.  She is too old now anyway and has had no training at all.”  He sipped his tea again.  “She is sixteen and will marry your Richard soon, live on the farm, and have a family of their own.  She does not need any other kind of life.”

            Anora looked into the shaken man’s eyes.  “You know it is her destiny and it will be fulfilled one way or another.  My sisters and I are all a part of that.”

            “Not anymore, you left your vows when you married Pendor.  The cycle has been broken now and Elise does not need to be part of that.”  He was trying desperately to keep his voice down and Anora could sense the deep fear in his words.

            She leaned over and gently touched his shaking arm, “Domi, she will become what she was born to be.  Even I did not escape my own destiny.  I may have tried to give up what I was, but it is still there none the less.  I know now what I must do.  I must teach her and my sons the ways.  They have to know.  What is upon us now is evil of the black crystal.  I fear the worst is yet to come.”  She took her tea and held it near her mouth.  “I will tell my sons tonight of my fate and theirs.  Now is the time, and you my dear friend, must tell Elise hers.” 

            Domi hung his head and starred at his hands in front of him.  A single tear slowly fell down the creases of his weathered face.  He pushed himself up from the table, “I will go tally the order and help the boys pack it in the cart.  Leave some time for Richard and Elise to be alone before you return home.”  He tugged at his tunic and smoothed the fabric down in front, “It may be quite some time before they can be alone again.”  He left the room and Anora finished her tea.