Who are these Private Guards of yours?

Like no other.

That I can see well. They appear most formidable.

I use them not lightly, but when I do, it is a sad turn for The Realm.

The Elf looked upon these women who, when knelt, were nearly as tall as she was standing. She read the words upon her staff, placing them into her memory. She knew from the spell that her staff would be needed as she recited the spell. She checked the spell once more, knowing she needed it to be accurate to work.

When she was a.s.sured that she was ready, she nodded to the Private Guard leader, aI will do this for you, Private Guard of The High Queen.a As she recited the spell aloud, in Elfin-speak, The High Queen saw the wind rise lightly about the Private Guard. A soft glow then covered them, sprinkling down upon them like drops of glittering rain, as if providing a protective shield over them. A little nervous in doing so, Sleanela used the staff as directed, bringing down a lightning bolt lightly upon them, as if sealing the protective shield over them.

When she was done, she lowered her staff, looking amazed that at least something had occurred. The Private Guard rose as a group, grinning at her, aIt has been well past our lifespan since an Elf agreed or has been able to do this for the Private Guard, my Princess. We are honored. If there be anything we can ever do for you, all you need do is ask, and it shall occur.a Sleanela bowed her head in acknowledgement, and was fully surprised when the leader of the Private Guard came to her and picked her up easily, hugging her. Anatheraon was laughing, aMy Elfin Princess, but it is good to have an Elf in The Realm again.a As she hugged Sleanela, The High Queen laughed a little, aHarm her not, Anatheraon. She is only a slight Elf, and not of your stature and build.a Sleanela watched as The Private Guard left to await their command for battle. She was yet amazed at their alarming size, aThey must be amazing to see in battle. Have you ever fought them?a aAs I learned, I practiced with them throughout my younger turns.a aAnd you can beat them as well, I imagine. But are they trained as Masters?

aThey have some of the training, but are selected for their size and strength, mostly. They have not the temperament necessary for the training of a Master, but they are quite fearsome in battle.a Sleanela thought that an understatement, aI find them quite fearsome even when they are kneeling.a Another group entered camp after a while, and more excitement occurred with it. Even The High Queenas Private Guard came out to meet the next arrivals. Sleanela watched as the Black Guard arrived. In contrast to the great size and fearsomeness of the Private Guard, these women were of Uthrnas size. While they didnat have the great strength of the Private Guard, these women were able to move quickly, carrying only minimal weapons and no armor of any kind. Their horses, though, like the Private Guardsa, were also coal-black.

As had occurred with the Private Guard, the Black Guard gave their respect to their High Queen. After the formal greetings, The High Queen introduced them to their new member, Black Uthrn. These women wore only black garments that exposed very little of their skin. What was showing they now covered with mud and dirt as they prepared for their duty this well after-late eve. The High Queen had told them that they would be the first to go into battle, so they waited fully prepared. Uthrn stood by, watching, learning, and vowing that upon their next mission, she would be with them.

As they were preparing, Annawn saw the guards she had been waiting fora"the Master had finally been delivered.

Annawn informed her Queen. The High Queen was now preparing for the moment of the attack and had no humor about her, aStand her to a stake. Tie her well, and silence her.a Annawn was about to tell her Queen that the Master was already half-dead from the hard ride and prior torture, but decided against it, seeing her Queenas expression. Annawn guessed that the Master didnat have long to live, anyway, aYes, High Queen.a Meera approached, aMy Queen. Your reinforcements are arriving as we speak. We are having them wait behind the main camp for your command.a aTheir attack will occur at the early morn. Have them rest until then. Tell them that their mission will be dangerous and filled with much defense. Prepare them well.a Meera bowed her head, aYes, my Queen.a In the late eve, The High Queen called the Black Guard back to her, aIt is the moment for your mission. Enter this main city.a She pointed out which city on the map. aCapture two of the highest officials you can. Kill all their guards and attendants. Then return. Only this. If you happen onto the Mungardies leader, bring her to Me.a She waved her hand in dismissal, aBut waste no moments on this. Remember, the highest officials you can find. Be quick and quiet.a When the sunas rise began, she hurried, knowing her next strategy was upon her. She saw her lover, aCome with Me.a They returned to the site of where they had earlier used their lightning spells upon one spot of ground. Sleanela saw that the ground was yet hot from the burning caused by the lightning bolts they had created prior turn.

aWhen I call up Daklradil, help Me send her away from us. As soon as I speak with her, use your lightning bolts in back of her. Send her straight out toward the Mungardiesa towns.a aDaklradil? Can you control her?a aI can call her back to Me when I am ready. That is enough. She will rampage through a few of their towns, and the disease she will leave behind will leave them weak for many turns to come. That, and they have never prior even seen such as this. They will fear us well by the end of this turn.a Sleanela had no doubt about that, now knowing the extent to which The High Queen was unleashing her forces against the Mungardies.

The High Queen raised her hands and muttered some words. Sleanela had heard the words what seemed long prior, when The High Queen was angry with Faralinaterail, the main Spirit Mother of the Falls. As The High Queen chanted her spell, all the warriors watched in horror. Annawn hadnat been told of what she was doing, but now knew, and even she stood as amazed.

Anatheraon was standing beside Annawn, aThe High Queen must be beyond rage at the Mungardies. I have never known her to call this evil fully into The Realm.a Annawna spoke lightly, as if only to herself, aNor have I.a A great noise occurred as the ground cracked open. A black whirlwind appeared from the depths of wherever this creature lived. This was all Sleanela had seen prior, when her Queen had prior called this creature forth. But on this moment, she knew that her Queen was intent on Daklradil coming up to the lands of The Realm to instill great fear and damage on the Mungardies.

Suddenly, a huge piercing howl sounded from the depths of the cavern, far below. The howl instilled such fear that the entire camp of warriors and their horses startled at the sound, their eyes ablaze in panic. The howling continued, growing louder as the creature came closer. Sleanela felt her eyes would pop out as the creature brought forth one of its amazingly large paws, then another, and then suddenly jumped out. It landed on the ground, staring at The High Queen, roaring.

The monster from the depths of the UnderRealm stood at least as tall and big as a large dwelling. It smelled of eons of decay, a stench offensive beyond measure. Aside from its many large and sharp teeth, it had four large teeth that remained outside the mouth that, to Sleanela, always seemed to be wide open in a roar. Its eyes shone red and black, and its paws were but great, ma.s.sive claws, able to inflict incredible damage with one swipe. Its tail was as long as five horses, and spiked. And it was in continual motion, swinging side-to-side.

The High Queen moved slightly forward, unafraid of the huge creature. In a loud voice, she commanded, aDo as I bid this turn. Return prior to the sunas set. Do as you will, but only to the Mungardies. Do as I command or you will never return again.a The Daklradil howled at her in response, and Sleanela was surprised to see that its response didnat surprise her Queen. The High Queen turned to her Elf, aNow, My Love. Quickly. Help Me send her away.a Together, they used their lightning bolt spells to guide Daklradil away from them, into the Mungardiesa lands. When The High Queen was satisfied, she returned to the camp.

She went to her tent, telling her attendants, aPrepare Me.a None had seen The High Queen wear her battle armor for many, many cyclesa"since she had become High Queen. As the attendants prepared her into the garments of her Private Guard, she examined the armor, feeling oddly displaced in it. But the feeling of the armor wasnat uncomfortable. As the attendants placed on each piece, she felt herself regaining her warrior att.i.tude.

She knew that Sleanela would be surprised, but could do nothing to help it at the moment, as the moment for the battle was approaching. She stepped outside her tent, fully dressed in the garments of The High Queenas Private Guard, but with five red feathers upon her warrior-leader headdress. At this moment, no crown of peace rested on her head.

Sleanela wasnat the only one shocked. Meera, Sam, and Uthrn were also surprised at the drastic change in appearance, never having seen her prior in these garments. On any turn, The High Queen looked austere, but seldom threatening. In truth, The High Queen was a most beautiful woman, often appearing as soft and kind. As she stepped outside the tent, she appeared as imposing, commanding, and fearsome. No sign of kindness showed upon her.

All knelt before her, aWarrior High Queen.a She, like her Private Guard, wore armor on her legs, knees, arm, head, chest and back, but was also wearing warrior pants and long boots, which few had ever prior seen her wear. Sleanela was also surprised to see that she had the same weapons as her Private Guard about her, except for her sword. She wore only one sword, but all saw it was The High Queenas sword. Her sword was deeply embedded with its own powers, and those that helped to enhance The High Queenas. Its hilt carried a large blood-red stone, and the sword was of astonishing quality, hand-crafted only for The High Queen. Sleanela stared at the sword, noting that she had never prior seen any such like it. And unlike all the Queenas other swords, this one was very large.

Just as the sun rose, she called her Private Guard to her, speaking to all of them, but addressing their leader only, aYou have the most important mission of the turn.a She showed them a map, pointing to one of the main towns, aI will be going with you. We will destroy this town, leaving only one living. We will leave nothing standing, obliterating all signs that a town has been here. We will send this one remaining Mungardies to their leader with a message and a bundle. Prepare, as I now ready the bundle, and then we go.a She turned, then remembered something, aOh, and Anatheraon. I have unleashed Daklradil. We go only to that village, or we might run into her. We will return by another route.a Anatheraonas eyes opened wide, aIf I had any kind feelings for the Mungardies, this turn I would feel very sorry for them, Highness.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna reached out her hand, aI have need to borrow your knife for a moment only.a Anatheraon removed her lightest and smallest knife, handing it to her Queen, guessing as to her intent, aI would be most honored to do this for you, my Queen.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna looked up at Anatheraon, but said nothing. She knew she needed to do this for The Realm. For her warriors. For all the innocents who were slaughtered by the Mungardies. And for herself. It had been long prior since she had done anything like this, but she knew it must be done. She took hold of the knife slowly, as Anatheraon offered it to her.

Sleanela stood by wondering as to why her Queen took the knife. All the camp watched as The High Queen did so, then watched breathlessly as she walked over to the Master.

The Master was mostly unconscious, in much pain from her torture and wound, aWake her.a Annawn threw some water upon the Master.

The Master came to, looking at The High Queen, aSo. You come to finally kill me, Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna. I am well honored that you do this yourself.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna looked upon her with disgust, aYou are a loathsome figure and should never have been made a Master. In truth, your skills are pitiful. I fought against some of your trained Mungardies and they knew little of the skills. As I look back upon our training, I now recall that only the traitors made you a Master. In truth, you are not a Master at all.a aThink me not the only traitor, Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna. Even those you think of as loyal may have surprises waiting you.a Ignoring the statement, Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna moved forward, ready to do her intent.

aDo I get no last request, High Queen?a aTell Me of it first, then I will decide.a aSpare the Mungardies Head Supreme Ruler.a She ignored the request, turning to Annawn, aDid I not say to silence her?a Annawn bowed her head, aHer nose is broken. She cannot breathe from it, Highness. And you wanted her alive.a The High Queen said nothing of the statement, aRemove her shirt.a Sam had arrived to the scene, deciding to wait with Sleanela, coming up beside her, aWhat is she doing, Jandra?a Sleanela stared in disbelief as to what she now knew her Queen was to do. She could barely breathe, let alone respond to her prior lover. She watched as her Queen bowed her head and closed her eyes, a pattern Sleanela well knew. The High Queen was preparing herself and displacing her emotions. As she did this, the Master, who was well strapped to the pole, began to show fear, an emotion most Masters would never show.

Sleanela thought, With the way The High Queen presently appears in this battle armor, I would also be well afraid. I thought these Private Guards most fearsome in their appearance, but The High Queen in this armor is the most terrifying woman I have ever seen.

She knew her lover had been taken to the point of no return, but she couldnat have guessed as to The High Queenas ability to take on that which she demanded from others. She turned to Sam, aForgive me, but my Queen needs me.a She quietly walked up toward The High Queen, standing slightly to the side. She sent her thoughts to her, hoping she would receive them, I know not why you must do this, but I am here for you, Sa.n.a.lraina.

The High Queen turned her head slightly, seeing her lover out of the side of her eyes. She kept her thoughts to herself, not wishing to share the horror within her mind, but was grateful, and knew that Sleanela had seen much worse during her lifespan.

Never prior had Sleanela seen such burdened-weight upon The High Queen. Her eyes looked as if they had seen more sorrows than all the Sorrows of the Stones, combined. Sleanela could tell that her Queen felt the weight of all The Realm upon her.

Sleanela knew her Queen needed her strength, If you feel you must do this, then do so without regret. Show the others, my Queen. Help them to have courage to fight against our enemies. They will face worse than this. Stand as a High Queen, my Love. Stand in all your glory.

She saw Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna visibly change her stance slightly, standing more a.s.sured, more as a Warrior High Queen. She watched as The High Queen moved up close to the Master.

aNot deserving such, you will not be given a last request.a She watched as The High Queen took the knife and made a deep cut into the Masteras chest, opening it. She watched in disbelief as The High Queen moved her hand into the Masteras heart cavity, ignoring the chilling and tortured screams. She felt around for a moment, calling to her the memories of the Dungarasa villages that were destroyed, while causing unbelievable pain to the Master. After a moment, she placed her other hand against the Masteras chest, bracing herself, then slowly, she pulled out the Masteras heart. When she was done, she stood holding it in her now bloodied hand, watching it beat the last of its life.

To Annawn she said, aGive Me her shirt.a Annawn came up to her, holding the shirt out for her. The High Queen placed the heart in the shirt, then called for Anatheraon, aI return your knife to you. Carry this bundle for Me. We will give this to the last survivor, telling them it is for their leader.

Anatheraon had monumental respect for her High Queen, well knowing that even given her own strength and power, The High Queen could yet beat her in combat, aYes, my Queen. We will leave at your bidding.a Annawn made a move to remove the Master from the stake.

The High Queen looked at her, aLeave her for the birds to feast upon.a Annawn bowed her head, moving away from the now dead Master.

aForce Leader. It is your moment to lead your forces into battle. Prepare your warriors.a The High Queenas attendants came to her, helping her to wash the blood from her hands and arms. When she was done, she spoke to Annawn once again, aForce Leader. Take all our reserves and go toward the southern boundary. Find and destroy two of its small villages, but leave the children and innocents alive. Have a message sent to the Mungardies leader that we spare them their defeat this turn, but that they are to leave the Dungaras in peace from hereon. Leave no dwelling standing and no warrior living. Your warriors may take as they wish, but no innocents are to be killed.a Annawn bowed her head, aTo your command, High Queen. With your leave, we now depart.a aYou have My leave.a Annawn turned to leave. The High Queen spoke once again, aForce Leader.a Annawn turned, then knelt and bowed her head, aHigh Queen?a For the first moment in over two turns, she spoke somewhat kindly to her force leader, aReturn to Me, Force Leader. Return safely from this battle.a aAs you command, High Queen. It shall be so.a aAnd have Meera, Erthrn, and My sister go with you.a aYes, High Queen.a Annawn left with great speed, taking the remaining warriors with her. The High Queen looked upon her lover, placing her hand gently on Sleanelas cheek, aI leave now, My Desire.a aI go with you.a aYou should not. Our mission will be most difficult to see.a aI go with you, openly or hidden. It is your choice.a The High Queen looked at her through saddened eyes, aIf I were able to command you, I would order you to remain in camp with the healers. But we will ride very quickly, My Desire.a aWith all that armor? I will be arrived well prior to you, given all the weight you now carry.a aTo our stars, My Desire.a aTo our stars, my Queen.a All The High Queenas main forces had been unleashed for a one-turnas revenge. She and Sleanela now rode with her Private Guard, racing at furious speeds to the designated town. Unlike The High Queenas Black Guard, her Private Guard cared nothing about silence, choosing to thunder in upon the enemy, frightening them with their great explosive noise. For long into the early morn, they ran like an ill-wind blowing ferociously across the lands. When they finally saw the town from a distance, Anatheraon halted them for a moment, pointing to their destination, aLeave no survivors. I will select the one. Leave nothing else. When all are dead, set fire upon the town. Take what you wish from them. We go, and we go loudly. We go letting loose The High Queenas great anger and punishment.a She raised her ma.s.sive sword, aFor The High Queen! For The Realm!a Anatheraon raised her horse onto its hind legs, then rushed off at the greatest of speeds, with all her warriors following closely behind. The High Queen rode next to Anatheraon, while Sleanela followed at a short distance behind the entire group. She readied her bow and arrow as she pushed her own horse forward to that which she now knew would be total slaughter.

She had one quiet wish, If we must kill them, then let us do so quickly, without torture or pain.

The battle scene was nothing Sleanela wished to see, hoping she would never have to see such again. The Mungardies were not taken by surprise, hearing the thundering of the Private Guard well prior to their arrival, but were hardly prepared for anything like The High Queenas Private Guards. The Private Guard were quick in their executions, moving quickly onto the next enemy. They wasted no moments on reflection, no moments on useless movements, and gratefully, no moments on torture. Sleanela knew that if The Private Guard reflected for even a mere moment, they wouldnat be able to do as they did this turn. Every Mungardies in the town was to be killed, except one. And by the end of the late morn, all were dead, except the one. To a one, The Private Guard were awash in blood, looking weary from their loathsome task. When they had searched out all the living from every dwelling and killed them, they then set fire to every dwelling, leaving nothing.

The High Queen had ridden into the town center, dismounting quickly, choosing to fight in hand-to-hand combat against those who had taken up weapons. Throughout all the morn, The High Queen released her rage against the Mungardiesa warriors, drawing forth her memories of what the Mungardies warriors had done to the innocents of The Realm. Sleanela stood on the sidelines, using her bow and arrow only as she felt necessary. At one moment, she saw an injured Mungardies who was suffering from the deep wound. She sent an arrow quickly into her, ending her pain. She turned her back to the killing of the innocents, not understanding why The Realm needed to also do as such. Fortunately, the town was comprised mostly of warriors who were far easier to wage war against than the senseless slaughter of the innocents. She could see no children about the town this turn.

When all was complete, Anatheraon began to take the one left alive to The High Queen. One of the Private Guards heard a noise, aListen. It is the sound of crying young ones.a The one guard listened, walking to a patch of bushes upon the ground. She knelt down, yet hearing the noise. She brushed some dirt away from the area, then saw a wooden door hidden in the ground. She cleared the trapdoor, and then opened it. Five small Mungardies children were inside. She pulled each of them out, seeing that all of them were well under four cycles. The Mungardies children were crying and scared, holding each otheras hands. Anatheraon turned her captive over to another of her own warriors, then went to kill the children, pulling out her sword as she went.

Sleanela cried out, aHalt!a Anatheraon looked at her, aThe High Queen has commanded it be so, Elfin Princess.a Sleanela went and gathered the children to her, quickly trying to create an idea that would be acceptable to these Private Guard and her Queen, aI have a better idea for vengeance against the Mungardies than simply killing their children.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna raised an eyebrow only, aI am listening, My Elf.a aWe will give them to Yyeoiraa and Aalonalden to raise.a The High Queen thought on it for a moment, then laughed, thinking it an excellent thought, aFive young Mungardies raised by a Dungaras and a Mystic. We will send this as part of the message. Most excellent, My Desire. A most brilliant idea. The Mungardies would rather have their children dead than raised by such.a Anatheraon couldnat guess as to why there were only five children in this large town, aMy Queen. Why do we see only these five children, and no other?a aThe Mungardies send their children of four cycles or more for training. It is their way.a The one Mungardies who Anatheraon had left alive was a young warrior, full of hate and loathing toward the women of The Realm. She resisted every movement, until finally The High Queen placed her sword into one of the fires for a moment. When she removed it, it was glowing with red-hot intensity.

aHold out her sword arm.a Anatheraon and two others held the Mungardies warrior in place, holding her arm straight out. Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna raised her heated sword, bringing it down swiftly, cutting off the arm quickly and cleanly just below the elbow, then held the sword to the open wound for a quick moment. The sword seared the arm closed, preventing the warrior from dying of blood loss, but the pain was immense. The Mungardies screamed and shrieked from the pain, unable to refrain from doing so. Anatheraon kept the Mungardies warrior in a standing position, but the young warrior was screaming and crying so desperately that all could see that she would be useless as a messenger.

The High Queen placed a hand upon the Mungardiesa head for a very brief moment. Suddenly, the Mungardies warrior halted her screaming. Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna had removed a little of her pain, but only out of her need of this one.

aStand like a warrior, Mungardies.a The young warrior tried, but felt as a child next to The High Queenas Private Guards. Yet, she stood, and that was enough.

Anatheraon stood close to The High Queen with the prepared bundle. The High Queen took it from her, now standing close to the Mungardies warrior, aYou have been spared for a reason.a aTo kill you the next moment I see you, Realm Sc.u.m.a Anatheraon raised her hand to the Mungardies, backhanding a great blow to her face, aSpeak with respect, or on the next moment I remove your tongue.a Anatheraon removed one of her knives to prove her point.

The High Queen continued, aDeliver this package to your leader. If you do this not, she will be lacking the information she seeks. Tell her that The High Queen of The Realm delivers her lover back to her. Kill no more Dungaras, or on the next moment, this will be her heart.a The Mungardies warrior took the bundle, opening it slightly with her fingers of her one remaining hand. She gasped as she saw the heart. In disbelief, she asked, aYou killed our leaderas lover? You killed the Master? And you are High Queen of The Realm?a The High Queen ignored the questions. Turning to Anatheraon, she said, aPrepare a sling for her so that she can carry it safely.a The Mungardies warrior now knew who she spoke to. She knelt, aHigh Queen of The Realm. Please allow me to take our children with me.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna turned back to her, having no single thought of softening toward this one, aAh, yes. I forget part of the message. Tell your leader that we have taken five Mungardies children. We will have them raised by a well, an unusual partnership, and one that she knows of. Tell her that these five Mungardies will be raised by a Dungaras and Mystic pairing, along with their own child.a The Mungardies warrior looked at her in surprise, seeing that pleading was worthless, aYou lie. No Dungaras can mate with a Mystic.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna raised an eyebrow, aThink what you wish. But I would warn you not to withhold information from your leader, as she knows well of this union. None of us thought prior that such a union could occur, but I have seen the child and know it to be truth.a aYou would have the likes of a Dungaras raise five Mungardies children? That is worse than death.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna drew her sword, aHold out her other arm.a The warrior became frightened, aNO! Please, High Queen. NO! I will deliver the message, as you say.a aAnd tell your leader that I vow for every innocent the Mungardies slaughter, The Realm will now take five Mungardies innocents in return.a * * * *

The High Queenas Private Guard was the first to return to the camp, bringing the five Mungardies children with them. Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna had five of her Private Guard take the children to where they would now be raised, knowing they would get them there safely.

Although their mission was successful, none of them enjoyed the ma.s.sacre, having done it only to halt more of the same by the Mungardies. The High Queen didnat think the Mungardies would halt their fighting, but hoped that they wouldnat fight against the Dungaras any further. She had called forth her most violent of responses, yet feared it wouldnat suffice.

When they returned to camp, Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna changed back into her other garments, relieved to be rid of this most appalling of warrior duties. She hadnat wanted to kill innocents, but did so to make a point, hoping that the leader of the Mungardies would now refrain from doing so further.

Throughout the remainder of the turn, Sleanela watched for the others to return, as The High Queen stood meditating and reflecting on her decisions. Her arms were slightly out from her side as she stood facing a large mountain. She remained motionless, trying to distance from the voices in her head, from the sounds of death and dying, from the horrors of war, from the sounds of innocents being murdered.

Long prior, when one of her teachers had died in battle, a mournful requiem had been sung for her. It was a haunting melody sung by the most crystal of voices, sung in the Elfin tongue. Since then, whenever Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna was haunted by the voices of death, of torture, of war, she would hear the song come to her, offering its peace. She could now hear the song as if the singer stood next to her, comforting her in the loneliness of being High Queen. And whenever she heard the song, it allowed her the moment to breathe, and to cry silently to herself.

Watching as her lover silently cried inside her meditations, Sleanela wondered if her staff had any spell of relief from such a desperation. She searched through it, asking it if there were a spell to relieve her Queenas suffering. She saw words appear. She read them, seeing that they were written in Elfin, but not in a dialect she knew. Knowing how to say the words, but not knowing their meaning, she decided to trust her Motheras staff. She read them aloud.

As Sleanela spoke the words, the staff sang the song. Softly, the voice sang with haunting crystal-like beauty. Gently, the song sung by the staff replaced the song in Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelnas mind. She opened her eyes, realizing her song was there in the camp, with her. She turned, seeing her Elf reading the spell, but hearing the staff sing the song. She stood motionless, listening, comforted by it. She closed her eyes, allowing the song to remove her from the cares of the living, allowing it to take her into the hands of eternal peace, far away from The Realm. While Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna couldnat understand the words of the song, she knew the message, and she breathed in the peace of eternity.

Of the others left to return, the Black Guard returned first with their captured leaders, a Mungardies High Counselor and the leader of a town.

Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna looked upon the captured women, speaking only to the leader of her Black Guard, aTie them to stakes.a After the Black Guard returned, Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna said to the leader of the Black Guards, aI have another task for you.a She motioned to the Mungardiesa High Counselor. aRemove this captiveas tongue and whichever hand she holds a sword with. Then let her go. She can walk. Give her no horse. When you are done with that, take the other,a she motioned to the Mungardiesa town leader, aand do the same.a aYes, my Queen.a When it was done, Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna spoke to the Mungardiesa leaders, aTake a message to your leader. All this damage to you and your towns has been done this turn in revenge for your killing of the Dungarasa innocents. Tell your leader that every innocent you kill from this moment on, we take five of yours. And tell your leader that we have taken five of your children to be raised by the Dungaras.a They were released, well-bloodied and quite disabled, but Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna thought that they would return to their Mungardies leader without further incident.

After their return to the camp, and as the sun began its descent in the sky, Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna returned to the site of Daklradilas cavernous hole. She raised her arms, chanting her spell, returning Daklradil to her. After many moments of waiting, she finally heard Daklradilas roar of return. Using more chants, she guided Daklradil back into her cavern, praising her for her obedience. When she could see no more of her, she chanted her last spell, closing the great rift, locking the hideous monster back into her underground dwelling. She could only guess as to the damage and terror Daklradil had inflicted on the Mungardies, but from the blood upon her mouth and front feet, she guessed it had been considerable.

She had her Private Guard and Black Guard units wait for Annawnas return so that they could all listen to the events of the turn. Until then, the success of the campaign was mostly unknown. The Black Guard had sustained only one injury, and her Private Guard had lost one of their own to the battle.

Annawn, Erthrn, and their units returned after sunas set. They had lost a few to the battle, but not as many as expected. A great fire was built, and all sat around it. Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna listened as each leader told the story of their campaign. All had been successful, and much chaos and grief were given to the Mungardies for their acts against the Dungaras innocents. The High Queen could tell that it would take the Mungardies many moons to regroup, as she had hoped. All the warriors celebrated this eve, as The High Queen allowed and gave her leave for, but she stood on the sidelines, listening to their merriment, unsatisfied.

They are halted, but only for a short moment. There must be a way toward peace. There must be!

She heard the discordant voices once again in her head. The tortured sounds of life unresolved, leaving The Realm shrouded in dissonance.

Chapter VIII.

The Horizon After the celebration, the warriors went to their rest while Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna remained sitting near the fire, watching as it burned. She was exhausted but needed the quiet moment to think over the past few turns and her decisions, as well as think on what now faced The Realm. She had learned long prior that while her Counselors were well committed to The Realm, they were not farsighted or imaginative enough in their thinking to rely on overly.

aMay I sit with you, Highness?a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna looked to the voice, surprised, nodding, aOf course, Sister.a Sam sat, also watching the fire. After a few moments, she said, aYou walk a lonely path.a She picked up a stick and started to draw designs in the dirt near her feet, aYou keep yourself well separated from your warriors and your Realm.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna looked at her, not knowing how to respond. She thought about the statement for a moment, aIs this an observation, or do you have an objection to how I interpret My position?a Sam saw that she her statement had aggravated her sister, aI but admire your strength. Only this. To walk so singularly as you requires much strength. I have examined myself as Highest of Woden and compared it to you and your reign. I but need and seek more advice, while you stand alone, well knowing what to do and how to accomplish it.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna stared back into the fire, thinking Sam tedious, their conversations forced. She sighed, knowing she lacked the patience she should have with her, aI have ruled far longer than you. Experience is a quick and harsh teacher.a aWill the Mungardies return the revenge?a aPerhaps. But not for a few moons. Our response to their attack on the Dungaras was a complex one, instilling fear, disease, death, annihilation, and seizure. We caused much damage. But mostly, we surprised them with our strength and abilities. It is this they will have to think on.a There was silence between them for a few moments, then Sam asked, aWhen you made Uthrn a member of your Black Guard, all in camp but thought you were going to behead her.a This surprised Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna. She looked at her sister, laughing lightly, aIn truth?a Sam nodded, not looking at her, aThis be truth. Why did you make her a member of your Black Guard?a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna shrugged lightly, aShe earned it. She placed The Realm first over her fears. It is not easy for a warrior such as Uthrn or Annawn to face the wrath of their queen. I have seen warriors drop their swords in battle, dying there rather than face the punishment of their queen. To earn The High Queenas displeasure is to be humiliated in front of all the forces. Warriors are women of action and know not how to handle such emotional shame as this. Uthrn overcame her humiliation and shame. It is the most difficult moment of a warrioras life. Her loyalty and dedication to her Queen and The Realm are now without question.a aAll think that you are now going to punish Annawn.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna chose not to respond openly to her statement, aYou are a Highest. A leader of many women. What would you have Me do?a aShe made an error of judgment only. She wasnat disloyal, nor was she disobedient.a Sleanela was standing in the forest, hidden in the darkness of its cover. She had been going to her queen, but saw Sam do as well. She listened, not wishing to interfere in their conversation. When Sam asked the question about Annawnas possible punishment, Sleanela also wondered as to her Queenas response, knowing that the same question had taken wings, carrying itself by the winds into each warrioras mind. All the warriors sought her favor, but in its opposite, all the warriors well feared her disfavor. And all a.s.sumed that Annawn was now in her disfavor.

aYou believe that that no great disservice was given, then?a aCould we have known that they would have attacked as many villages as this? Even if Annawn had prepared her forces for such an attack, no defense could have included this many villages. We might have saved one or two, but I believe not that anyone could have predicted which villages, or how many. Not even you. And while several Dungarasa villages were but destroyed, they were your enemies. That, and you have won much over the Mungardies this turn.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna sensed Samas anger, aDo you a.s.sume I am to punish her, Highest? You sound most angry with Me, and yet I have given no voice to the issue.a aI am slightly angry, Highness, and I beg your patience with this, but Annawn will not come to her own defense. I have asked her to speak with you, but she says she will not, and to leave the issue as it stands.a aShe cannot speak to Me of this. It is not allowed.a Sam objected, aShe but serves you well.a aYes. I am aware that she gives great effort.a She remained silent for a moment, then answered, aYou think Me overly hard, My Sister, but I am High Queen of The Realm. I cannot afford the cost of errors. It is My duty and My vow. Many serve Me with all their effort, but effort is different than realization. We must succeed, or The Realm loses. I serve more than a village, Samarainathelainelna. I serve the entire Realm. I have not the eras and resources necessary to favor effort over accomplishments.a aSo, you will punish her.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna laughed softly, aYou try to force My answer. And you overly a.s.sume, My Sister.a She laughed softly again, aWhat rules Woden, Samarainathelainelna, your heart or your knowledge of Wodenas needs? For a warrior, your heart is gentle. I hadnat sensed this in you. A most admirable trait, though. Something I lack, I think, gentleness. Wodenas women are most lucky to have you as their Highest. A gentle leader is a rarity.a aYou mock me.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna shook her head, wearied from the forced conversation, aNo. I envy you this trait. Gentleness. It simply means you wouldnat punish Annawn, while I might. While I have been called a strong queen, I think I have never been called a gentle queen.a She stared at the fire for a moment, then looked over to Sam, aAnd please recall that it was you who began this conversation. If you like not its direction, you have only yourself to blame.a aBut Annawn is a most excellent of warriors, Highness, and dedicated beyond even Uthrn.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna nodded, looking saddened, aYes. I am well aware of this.a aAnd she would face humiliation if it were your command.a aYes. This I know well.a aSo then, why will you punish her?a aI have said not that I am to do as such.a aBut you didnat say you were not going to.a She was tiring of Samas ignorant insistence, aSo. You are a gentle-hearted, but resolute Highest. You do have some excellent qualities about you. It is sad that we couldnat have known of each other prior. I wonder which of us would have been selected as High Queen had we been raised together.a Sam stood, upset that her sister kept avoiding the issue, aI am not a child, Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna. I have done as you bid and deserve not your disregard.a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna knew she had, like a child, forced her sisteras impatience. She made a slight motion with her hand, rebuilding the fire. Quietly, and with much meaning, she said, aSit down, Highest. I am weary from battle, and well exhausted. I mean no offense.a She waited a moment, then continued, aAs you said, I walk a lonely path. My decisions are My own, but The Realm becomes punished for My mistakes. You raise a difficult issue this eve, and perhaps I am not yet ready to consider its conclusion. Sit down, and regain your patience.a aYou will not answer me in regard to Annawn, then?a Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna looked up at the stars for a moment, sighing, aI have no answer.a * * * *

The next morn came without further incident or backlash from the Mungardies, as Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna had expected. Throughout the long eve, there had been much quiet talk about what The High Queen might do to Annawn, surprised that nothing had yet occurred. To a one, all were gladdened that they didnat walk in Annawnas boots at this moment.

The High Queen stood in front of all the forces that had partic.i.p.ated in the prior turnas revenge upon the Mungardies, about to release them, ready to give them their departing orders in case of a further Mungardiesa attack. Suddenly, and fully surprising The High Queen, in front of all and just prior to The High Queen speaking, Annawn came up before her.

She knelt in front of The High Queen, placing all her armor and weapons on the ground at The High Queenas feet. Not a sound could be heard in the camp, and all eyes were upon The High Queen. Annawn knelt on both knees and bowed, placing her forehead to the ground in full deferential posturing.

Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna looked down at Annawn, feeling more heavily burdened in the moment than all the just-prior moments of the battle. No matter The High Queenas desires, Annawn, in her action of kneeling before her, unwittingly was forcing The High Queen to display a decision she hadnat yet made. She studied her force leaderas thoughts, learning that Annawn was truly prepared to be beheaded. She sensed that Annawnas only regret in dying was that she had displeased her Queen.

Thoughts of what she might do now raced through her mind. She hoped that one would stand out from the rest as a brilliant solution. She knew she could take a vote from the warriors. But she also knew that this would be seen as weak. She could certainly allow Annawn to remain as her Force Leader with no punishment, but this would also be seen as weak unless her powers of oration were suddenly improved and could make all see the sense in this. She knew that she could behead Annawn, as was expected, and be done with it, yet knew that this wasnat the solution. Saddened by the thought, she knew she had become attached to this force leader, knowing her as excellent and loyal. Not thinking on it, she placed her hand upon her sword and unsheathed it, holding it to her side.

There must be a solution.

Sleanela looked upon the scene with great anguish, now seeing her Queen pull her sword from its sheath. She had listened to Samas arguments with Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna through the eve, but knew that Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna hadnat come to any decision. Now seeing that Annawn was about to be beheaded was more than she could bear. She wanted to react, but knew she couldnat. She couldnat show such disrespect to her lover. As tears began to fall down her face, she sadly realized there was nothing she could do to prevent this terrible moment. In spite of all her muscles wanting to react, to run to the scene to halt the process, she held steady, trusting her Queen.

I know she will find a way around this dilemma.

The Healer looked upon the scene with terror in her heart.

Not Annawn! Not our Annawn.

While knowing in her heart that Annawn gave no thought to her, she yet often hoped that they might come together. Now she stood frozen, watching helplessly as Annawn, her secret love, was to be beheaded. She felt her heart breaking, but knew she could do nothing, as anything she did would be seen as disloyalty to The High Queen. She stood silently, and sobbing her fear.

Meera suddenly came up and stood beside Annawn, then knelt and bowed her head, as had Annawn. The High Queen looked upon Meera, her Warrior Woden from Woden, and knew that she was now indeed in a spot she didnat wish for. She looked at her forces, finding her sister, thinking on what she had told her sister the prior eve. Then she looked over to her Elf.

Sleanela. I have always told her to follow her heart. Yet, I have never done as such until the moment with her.

She looked down again at Annawn, tears forming, her heart heavy. She was barely breathing, yet her hand held onto her sword with such intensity that her muscles began to rebel. She looked back up to her forces, seeing them staring in disbelief, their eyes fully upon her sword. To a one, they knew she was to behead Annawn.

Her training returned to her, her teachers forcing their teachings into her, their voices yelling at her: aNever! Never allow your heart to rule over your training. When your orders have been broken, you must punish. You must never become soft.a Never become soft.

Follow your heart.

If I behead her, I will not be seen as weak. Yet I will lose a great Force Leader.

She became angry with herself for even thinking she would behead Annawn. She became angry with Annawn for placing her into this position. Then she became angry at her forces for expecting her to be strong beyond reason. Her head was spinning in her thoughts, so into her own thoughts that she no longer focused upon the scene in front of her. She knew she was expected to behead Annawn. Knowing such, she raised her sword above her head, holding onto it with both hands, knowing what she was expected to do, and prepared through all her training to do so. All watched in disbelief, hoping that such wouldnat occur.

It is expected of Me. It is My duty.

She took a deep breath and exhaled, resigning herself to her duty, but at the very last instant, brought the sword down heavily, directly in front of Annawnas head, not touching her, yet just missing her by a breath. Annawn looked up at her, surprised. Her forces stood frozen in their place, also surprised. The Healer felt her heart halt, in shear fear of the moment. She had sensed that The High Queen was going to behead Annawn.

Unknowingly, The High Queen began pacing, talking aloud, enraged at Annawn. Enraged at her forces. But mostly, enraged at herself.

aHow arrogant is it to behead a loyal and excellent force leader just to be seen as strong?a She looked at her forces, not seeing them, aHow DARE you think that My strength is only determined in this fashion.a She looked at Annawn, aIs death not the sweeter of the consequences?a Yet pacing, she looked up to the sky, aWhy must we always take this simple path of death?a She looked down at Annawn and said to her, aIs facing My wrath and fury of such mortal fear that you go so willingly to your death? Is this not cowardice?a She looked at her forces, yet not seeing them, aThis is a cowardas way, and how dare you think of Me as such a coward as this. If I were such a coward, do you not think that I would have long prior opted away from My own responsibilities?a aAnd how dare you think that I have never prior made mistakes.a Without thinking, and without really knowing what she did, she grabbed Annawn by the shoulders of her shirt, pulling her up, ripping her from her kneeling position with great strength, staring at her face-to-face, aHow dare you think that you and I are to take the easy way out, Annawn. How dare you think so little of Me. Stand before Me like a warrior and deal with Me. Deal with Me and My rage!a She looked back to her forces, yet not realizing what she was doing, aHow dare all of you to expect Me to be such an arrogant coward.a aNO! I WILL NOT TAKE THE EASY WAY OUT THIS TURN! I WILL NOT BEHEAD HER JUST SO THAT I AM SEEN AS STRONG!a She screamed it to the sky, aI WILL NOT DO SO.a She looked at Annawn, raging beyond control, aI WILL NOT DO SO.a She looked at the sky, to the land of her prior teachers, and whispered, aI will not do so. I will not become so removed that their lives mean so little to Me. You were wrong to teach Me of this.a She cried as she spoke to the winds, aAgainst all My teachings, I will not do so.a She screamed it to her own mind, I will not do so.

She looked at her sword, then she looked at Annawn. None had ever prior seen her so enraged as this, or so pa.s.sionate. No one knew what to do except listen, but all were fully amazed at her words and the depth of her rage. Sleanela was concerned for her Queen, but was also gladdened over her decision. She knew the journey would be long for her Queen to return to The Realm, but knew The Realm would be better for it.

Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna re-sheathed her sword, then removed the sheathed sword from her belt, and held it in her hands, aI have no ability to behead My most loyal warriors. Find yourself another Queen that can do as such. I am not of this sort of realm.a Yet holding her sword, she bowed her head for a moment, trying to regain her control.

Focus.

Breathe.

She reopened her eyes and looked upon her forces. She began to bend down so as to place her sword upon the ground. As she did so, Anatheraon walked up to her, knelt before her, and placed her own sword down in front of her, aHigh Queen.a Uthrn followed, doing the same. Then each of her warriors followed, one-by-one, each placing their weapons before her. She had stood up as Anatheraon had come up to her, but said nothing. She watched, surprised, as her warriors placed their weapons before her, the pile growing larger. Unknowing to her, she held her sword to her side. Her face was without emotion, but inside, her mind was blurred from all reasoning.

Her Healer came, and bowed before her. As did her sister, then Caitha. Then Queen Erthrn came up, last among all the others, undid all her weapons and armor, and placed them at Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelnas feet. She bowed deeply to her, kissing her feet.

She then stood and took Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelnas sword from her. She held it straight out from her, presenting it back to The High Queen, aHigh Queen, you are The Realm. Without you, there is no justice. This very act we just witnessed was the reason you were selected as The High Queen, and not me. Because it is you who upholds the truths and integrity of the land, rather than its mere laws.

She moved the sword closer to Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna, aTake your sword, Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna, my friend. You have become The Realm.a She looked deeply into her eyes, pleading, aTake it, Highness. This sword can only belong to you. You are its rightful owner. Only you are High Queen.a Slowly, Sa.n.a.lrainathelainelna held out her arm. All saw that it shook. She saw that she was afraid to take back her own sword. She hesitantly held her arm just prior to the sword. Slowly, she wrapped her hand around the hilt, feeling the smooth touch of the cold metal. She drew it slowly out of its sheath, then examined it, seeing her steel-cold reflection in the sword.

As she held it up, all those in the camp knelt and bowed their heads, aHigh Queen.a She looked upon them, dazed. She re-sheathed her sword, and placed it back upon her belt.

She looked back to her forces, aRise.a She looked at Annawn, then picked up Annawnas armor and weapons. She presented them back to Annawn, aHigh Force Leader. I command you to take these back, and in so doing, serve Me well.a Annawn was also frozen, but moved slowly, reaching out her hands to take back her garments and weapons, as commanded of her. As she took them, The High Queen hit her in the jaw with full force. Annawn fell back onto the ground, solidly, feeling her chin, surprised.