Chapter 4
It was many hours before Ealayne could sleep but when she finally did, she dreamed of the events that had led to her quest.
Druid Master Torrance stood before her. He held a strange plant in his hands. It looked as if a branch from an oak and a willow had fused and were growing as a new entity.
"This plant means that the evil we had thought was gone is still alive. The wicked sorceress Ciar that Lucan spent so long guarding, has somehow unleashed something with her death. It is beyond our understanding, unfortunately. We must seek out someone who can tell us what this means. Since you were the one who destroyed Ciar, it is up to you Ealayne. You must find the Old Hermit. Show him this plant, and ask him what we must do to save Hibernia from this evil. Go to Chief Neasan. If anyone knows where to find the Old Hermit, it will be Neasan."
Suddenly she stood before Chief Neasan and showed him the plant.
"Yes Ealayne," the old Firlbog said to her. "I know where the Old Hermit dwells. There is an ancient grove on the way to Innis Cathaig, and he sleeps there in a hollow oak. However, he will not reawaken unless the need is great, and you are worthy. You must prove your strength and kill the Blademaster who guards the grove. This is your own private battle Ealayne, no one can fight it for you, or else you will fail. If you fail, the very existence of the realm is at stake. If you succeed, the Old Hermit will awaken. Hurry Ealayne, it is our only chance."
Once again she faced Druid Master Torrance.
"Your strength lies within Ealayne, never forget that. In a decisive moment, the heart will save you."
She stared at him, not knowing what he meant…
Ealayne woke to the sound of rain pounding on the roof. She sat up quickly. Today she would face the Blademaster.
