Part 4: Fancy Meeting You Here.
Hours later, Maeve stumbled out of the room. Sinbad was standing there and caught her. "Hey." He said, her bleary eyes met his. They were different than he remembered them being, more open and less guarded. "Eyolf's on his ship. Do you need any help?"
"No." She smiled, trembling with weariness. "Bryn...she forgave me. How could she forgive me?" Her eyes begged for an answer she could accept.
"Because she's Bryn." His answer was simple and yet, eloquent. "I hate to ask this but...do you know where Rumina is?"
"Rumina, of course. We must find her, she needs us." Maeve murmured as she walked away. "I'll send Dermott after her." Her voice ended on a question.
"I haven't seen him in a while. Since before all this happened, I think." Sinbad tensed, knowing how close they were.
"Oh. Well, he knows his business and is a big boy." She quietly responded, chuckling at his shocked expression. "Gee, one would think that you are disappointed to find that I have grown up."
"I didn't mean that." He objected, feeling uncertain with this new Maeve.
She held up a hand, hiding a smile. "I know, Sinbad, I am different. But then, so are you. Go to Bryn. She's going to need the power of the bracelet to help her through the night."
"Right." He watched her move up the stairs. "Are you sure you'll be okay?"
"Good night, Sinbad." Her voice floated down to him, she smiled widely at Eyolf. "Hey." She drawled, accepting his hand as she climbed on board.
His face was serious, even if he did smile at her. "My crew found something we think you should see." She followed him, stopping suddenly when she saw the drenched figure and the hawk by her side. There was a smile in his voice. "Of course you know Dermott. But who is she?"
"Rumina." Her voice was flat, she was struggling with the bile rising in her throat. She may understand Rumina's behavior from a distance but that didn't help when she was staring right at her.
Dermott chirped and she turned towards him, listening as Dermott told her what had happened.
She turned to Eyolf, mastering her feelings. "I think you should ask Firouz to come here and take care of her."
Eyolf had been watching her struggle, nodded at one of the crew members who disappeared. "How are you doing?"
"I've been better. Seeing Bryn, talking to her...I feel free. Now that Rumina is here, I think we can face whatever is stalking us." She said, moving into his arms. There was a familiarity in their embraces, a comfort that spoke of deep affection. "The only problem with this picture is, I can't rest my head on your chest."
"Do you want to?" He asked. "I'm sure we could find a way."
She smiled alluringly. "Nah, I like being able to rest my head on your shoulder. It's easier to distract you from there."
"You distract me by being here." He said, kissing the top of her head. "Hello, Firouz."
"I wasn't sure if I should come when I heard who my patient would be." He placed his bag down, gesturing for Coral to help him.
Eyolf was confused but Maeve explained before he could say anything. "It's all right, Firouz. Rumina is the final link in the chain. Take care of her as you would me or Bryn. Eyolf, I'll explain everything later, okay?"
He shrugged, then took her hand. "We'll be in the galley if you need us."
Rumina shot straight up, panting. Her eyes flew around the room, searching for something. They met Maeve's in the dimly lit cabin. "Donestk..."
"Yes, we know. He's back among the living." Soothed Coral, trying to force her to lie down.
"No, you don't. That's not it." She shook her head furiously, frustrated with her inability to talk clearly. "You don't know, the powers he's using now...those powers were once mine. The goose egg, when it was used...to defeat me and Scratch, sent them...my powers...into him-Donestk." Her words were forced past a sea salted throat, they were rushed.
"I was afraid that's what happened." Bryn's voice carried into the room. Sinbad was holding her up, an angry look on his face. Rumina looked straight at her, eyes wide. Bryn's exasperated voice stopped any words she may have said. "Don't you start. You're not responsible, neither is Maeve. I knew something was off about him. Sinbad, let go."
"If I do, you'll fall down." His worry for her made his words sharper than he had intended.
"He's got a point." Peri said, entering the room. "But, Sinbad, Bryn needs to be here. Rumina's problem is something only we can fix."
"You'll kill her!" He objected, aghast at her words.
"No." Coral responded firmly, taking Bryn from him and moving her to her sister's side. "We will save her."
Eyolf moved to Sinbad's side, taking a strong hold on his arm. "Come. Let us leave them to their work. We must do ours and keep them safe. This room must be kept off limits to all."
He followed the Viking out of the room reluctantly, knowing that they were right. "I'm coming." It was a long night as they waited outside, feeling forces gathering in the air around them.
Inside the room, the girls gathered in a circle. They were surrounded by lighted candles, basking in the glow of the lights and a sense of renewed friendship. Dermott was in connection with them all but circling the sky above the ship, keeping an eye out for any incursions that might occur.
Maeve looked each girl in the eye, assessing them all. She calmly reminded them of the danger that might be awaiting them on this journey. "The astral plain is a new place for most of us, save Bryn who visits due to her place of authority. If any of us gets lost, there is no way to return. We are invaders but we need to be there, for this is the only place we can go to reclaim that which was stolen from Rumina. Everybody understand?"
"One thing." Bryn cautioned, squeezing Maeve and Rumina's hands. "If you feel anything negative towards yourself or anyone you're with, it will be amplified several hundred times. It will hit me like a ton of bricks, crushing my soul. And this time, I will not survive."
A taunt silence stretched between them, before each woman nodded her understanding. Maeve took a deep breath and looked straight at Rumina. "Why?"
"Dermott?" She finished. "My father was getting stranger by the day, evil seemed to invade his every waking and sleeping moment. Now, I know why. Donestk was slowly taking control of him. He-Donestk-planned to use Dermott to work his revenge by taking control of his body. The only way for your brother to be safe was for me to change him. I was also not thinking very clearly, I blamed you for what happened to Bryn. It was wrong of me."
"Not your fault alone. I let myself become a target." Maeve quickly said, feeling her way through the deep shock that filled her at the thought of Donestk being so close to them. "I can't believe that the swine has existed in our world that long without our knowledge! Why didn't he die?"
"We didn't finish the job." Peri calmly explained. "When we thought Bryn was dead, we let a part of him escape. Over the years, the bond between us all snapped and allowed him to pull more strength into him. He fed on our feelings of hate and insecurity, our sense of deep loss and failure to protect one of our own."
Coral snorted in disgust. "Are we idiotic or what? We handed him the very victory we physically robbed him of. He may not have received the world but we left it unprotected."
"Enough of this!" Maeve scolded, her brow wrinkled up. "The past is done and can't be undone. The future is at stake, so let's do it!"
Bryn dropped their hands and slowly moved into the circle they now formed. Maeve and Rumina linked hands, completing the circle again. Swaying lightly in time to an eternal beat, her hands flowed up and out, encompassing all of those in the room. Her hands rose and a gentle wind swirled about the room, moving faster with every sway of her body. The candles blew out blanketing them in darkness, then five lit up forming the symbol of the pentagram. A deep trance descended on the women as they felt themselves lift up and leave their bodies behind.
They struggled against the sensation, fear in their hearts until a voice counseled. "Peace. All is well." They dropped their guard, trusting in their friend, and entered a place of perfect white-except for one corner. They saw Bryn moving towards this place. Fear gripped them again but they pressed forward, Maeve reached out a hand and held Rumina's, gesturing that they should form a chain.
She caught Bryn's hand as they caught up with her. The miko didn't even pause, it was like she didn't even realize they were with her. She gestured and the darkness parted. She moved and pulled them in with her, pausing on the top of a precipice to allow them the chance to look around. A gasp of wonder escaped the four newcomers as the pure vista greeted their eyes. The land was green with a light blue sky, surrounded by a mist of stars. The sense of peace was so prevalent that they felt they could reach out and touch it. They moved down a nearly hidden path towards a circle of stones.
"Not all things shrouded in darkness are evil." An aged voice filled their minds but they realized with a sense of shock that it wasn't Bryn's voice.
"Hello, I am Aliki." A woman of Oriental descent stood smiling before them, watching them knowingly. She wasn't as old as her voice made her sound and was tall for a woman of her race. Her black hair was bound up around her head in a crown of braids, occasionally the light would hit it and show off blue highlights. Her eyes were dark brown, but were gentle and wise. "The Gate Keeper of the Vale of Avalon. What is it that you desire?"
Bryn looked at Maeve, who stepped forward. She curtsied before speaking. "We seek the retrieval of Rumina's guardianship, my lady."
The dark hair fell to the side as she looked at her curiously. "For what purpose? To be misused again."
"No. Never again." Rumina stated, moving out of the line and standing in front of Aliki. Maeve moved to interrupt, but stopped, realizing that this was Rumina's battle. "I lost to much." She ended sadly, glancing at her friends behind her.
"Then why?" Her ancient eyes focused on the woman shriven of her birthright.
"To stop Donestk and restore the balance-even if it means to lose my life." She said. "To pass the power on to someone who deserves it and will protect it."
A heart beat of silence past, then two more, before it seemed as though they must stand there forever awaiting her judgment. Her head nodded, the eyes filled with pleasure. "Then you have learned wisdom."
The five elementals sagged with relief. "How do we do this?" Maeve asked, taking control once more.
"Hold out your hands." She commanded, her voice soft with authority.
As the redhead did what she was told to, a heavy weight landed on her palms. She looked down at them and saw a sword, burning with a light all of its own. Shifting it so that she held it by the hilt, she felt power run up her arm, filling her with a purging and purifying flame. "What is it?" Her voice was filled with awe, as she felt a sheath form on her back using strands of her hair, flesh, and bits of her magic.
"The Sword of the Spirit, to be used only as a last resort. The power it contains destroys worlds. The sheath will shroud it from the darkness in times of rest and renew it in times of action. Don't let them be separated." Aliki cautioned, turning towards Peri. "Come forward, Child of the Earth."
Peri glided forward, kneeling before her. "I have had my eye on you for a long time. You were blessed with a practical nature and an honest heart." She paused, placing her hand on the young woman's head. "The gift I give you will need those gifts more than any other. I believe you can handle it. This is the seers stone, the future and the past are yours to see. To watch and guard, to preserve and protect."
"I will not abuse this gift." She promised as the knowledge exploded into her mind while her hands cradled the dark blue stone. The images flowed in an eternal round, Peri winced in pain but accepted it as a part of the gift.
Bryn pulled it away before it could harm her, placing it inside a locket and putting that on a chain. "Not all at once, my friend. You must slowly adapt to it."
"The battle, I saw it." Her words were spoken so quietly, Bryn had to strain to hear her. "I know the outcome."
The other girl nodded. "Then you must also have the strength to allow it to happen."
"But it..." Peri subsided at Bryn's look.
"Shhh...it is time for Coral's present." She soothed, stroking her friend's hair. Peri sighed and turned to watch the physician move and kneel before her.
Aliki stared thoughtfully down at Coral's bent head, she then tipped her face up. "My precious child, how lost you have been these last few years. Yet you somehow managed to find your way to your higher calling. Healing is one of the greatest gifts bestowed upon you, but it takes a physical toll on you doesn't it?"
"Yes." The physician agreed. "It is almost like their pain becomes my own."
"That's because it does. From this time forth, your gift is freedom from that pain. The healing stream flows inside you will renew itself whenever it is used." She paused, waiting for the delight to fade away before she cautioned. "This is a mixed blessing, little one. You will want to heal everyone but sometimes people cannot be saved. The pain in your soul will hurt more than the physical does."
"I understand." Coral said, rising slowly.
Aliki's hands rested on her shoulders, studying her and smiled. "I'm sure you do. Peri has a need of your care." She watched her join her friends, a sad light in her eyes. Her attention shifted to the last two women in the group, truly these were all unique women. They were chosen and tried in the very fires of Hell, never again would the world see their kind.
Bryn moved to stand by Rumina. The gate keeper beckoned to the wind guardian. "Go on." Her half sister pushed her gently forward.
Rumina moved, kneeling before her. "I have two gifts for you. One, I'm sure you'll recognize immediately." There was a laugh in her voice as she produced the Goose Egg. "I'm sure you'll know what to do with that."
"If I don't, I'm sure I have some help in learning." She agreed, with a lively grin. "But what do I need with any other? This path is no longer mine to tread worthily."
"Oh, but it is. You have been allowed to falter in order to lead others to the light." Aliki produced a large book that had no obvious end. "This is the book of wisdom, not to be confused with knowledge. It is a treasure of immense value to the world and you are to protect it for you have lived it."
"I don't know what to say." Rumina was stunned and accepted the book with trepidation.
"It, like the other gifts, has a downside. You will never be truly free of it, the book is a part of you life. And always will be from this day forth." Aliki met Bryn's eyes, calling her forth. "You've had quite a life, my little bard."
Bryn laughed gaily, dropping to her knee. "I know I did. I lived it. Bard?" There was a note of uncertainty in her voice as she repeated the word the Keeper had used. A thrill of awe filled her, this was more than she thought to attain.
(If you will allow me a moment of self insertion, I'll explain. And if this is to annoying, let me know. A bard in the traditional sense (at least of early Britain) was more than just a singer/storyteller. It was someone who had the power to sing things into being. They weren't really fighters, so much as someone who would uphold fighters in battle. An advisor to kings, a record keeper, a prophet, and a seeker and teacher of knowledge. The bard was a spiritual leader and had the power to awaken the dead. Merlin was such a bard. Thank you.)
Aliki nodded with solemn regality, moving her hand into the mist that had suddenly formed behind her. "Yes, bard. It is time to accept your staff and your place." An ancient oaken staff moved from behind her and towards Bryn, resting upon her uncertain hands, which curled around the wood. "This is the Rod of Truth. You are the only one who may use this, it will break if anyone else tries. Do not lose it for it is your connection to your higher place."
"Of course." She whispered, awed and adjusted to the feel of the wood in her hands. The power resting inside transferred itself to her, healing all of her wounds. Her sword belt fell away, the leather burned away and the sword's blade rusted completely never to be used seriously again. This is not to say that she would never wield a sword again, just that it would never be her main weapon again.
"He has entered. You must go and meet him." Her hand closed the veil of darkness, her voice suddenly called out to them. "One thing more. His life blood must not be shed here. Beware, there is a twin." She was cut off when the darkness finished closing.
Maeve sheathed the sword. "What did she mean about his life blood, Bryn? He is dead."
"No." Bryn objected, transferring the six foot staff to her left hand. "Rumina's powers and Scratch's interference gave him life. If we were to kill him here, it would bring condemnation upon this land."
Rumina tapped a finger against her cheek, thinking. "And the twin he mentioned?"
"Ah, now there, I can't help you." Bryn shrugged, not to concerned. "I don't know what that would refer to."
"Where is he?" Peri asked.
"In the game room." The bard moved forward, extending the staff in front of her to show the way. The staff formed a bar for the women to hold onto as they moved through the bright light. It was in one of the far corners of the realm where the light was the brightest.
"I was beginning to think you'd never show up." His silky voice greeted them from the center of the room. It took them a moment to adjust to the dim green light. Donestk rose from the chair he'd been resting on, a glass of cognac in his hand which he tipped in their direction. "Cheers."
Maeve shrugged gracefully, feeling the sword itching between her shoulder blades. "Oh, I doubt it will be for you in a moment. But thanks for the best wishes." Her smile was insincere, her hand rested on Rumina's shoulder as if to tell her to wait.
Donestk sipped and rolled the drink around on his tongue for a moment, savoring the flavor. "You could be right about that." He mused softly, watching them through lidded eyes. Quickly, he opened his robe and exposed his chest. "So, what are you waiting for? Finish me off. After all, it's what you've been waiting for all these years."
"Maybe some other time." Bryn ushered the girls towards another door, gesturing for Rumina to walk behind them.
"I didn't say you could leave!" He roared at them, glaring at their backs.
Coral turned and looked back at him. "You didn't say we could stay either!" Her voice was saucy, as was her grin. "Bye, daddy." She gave a little wave, following the others out.
The smell of burning flesh trailed after them. "What's he doing?" Rumina asked.
"He's trying to bring us back and turn us away from our real goal." Peri answered, shaking as the weight of her vision pressed upon her. She fingered the locket with restless fingers.
"Are you all right?" Coral asked, putting an arm around her shoulder as they moved farther up and in. The higher they went, the warmer it got and the lights seemed to soften and become a part of them.
Her head shook. "It hurts, right here." She explained, placing a hand over her heart.
Bryn glanced back at them, her gaze tender. They looked up when they felt her touch and saw it. "Peri, if your gift is too much, go back and trade it. Aliki will understand, but she trusts you. As do I."
"Its not that. I just didn't think it would be so hard to know what I now know." She shrugged, trying to make light of her fears. "How will we know him?"
Bryn's eyes narrowed but she let the subject drop. "Like I said, he'll be in the game room." A pair of stairs in black light formed to the right, they walked down them.
"But wasn't that the game room?" Rumina asked, though from the feeling of dread creeping into her heart, she knew that they were closing in on him.
"That was the solar room." Bryn looked at Maeve, then back at her sister. "You will be the only one allowed in there when we arrive. This battle is yours."
She nodded, determination filling her eyes. "I lost it on my own. I must retrieve on my own and thereby prove my own worth."
"That book must be working on you. You really sound like you know what you're talking about." Maeve grinned.
"Funny." She punched her arm lightly.
Maeve chuckled. "I thought so. Bryn?" She asked as a chill wind trailed up her spine.
The staff drew a circle on the ground, tapping out a pattern in the marks. Crystals grew where the staff touched. She made a sudden, sharp jab in the center and a crack opened up, the smell of jasmine filled the air. "This is the way in and the only way out." She clasped her sister's hand. "Good luck, Rumina."
Hours later, Maeve stumbled out of the room. Sinbad was standing there and caught her. "Hey." He said, her bleary eyes met his. They were different than he remembered them being, more open and less guarded. "Eyolf's on his ship. Do you need any help?"
"No." She smiled, trembling with weariness. "Bryn...she forgave me. How could she forgive me?" Her eyes begged for an answer she could accept.
"Because she's Bryn." His answer was simple and yet, eloquent. "I hate to ask this but...do you know where Rumina is?"
"Rumina, of course. We must find her, she needs us." Maeve murmured as she walked away. "I'll send Dermott after her." Her voice ended on a question.
"I haven't seen him in a while. Since before all this happened, I think." Sinbad tensed, knowing how close they were.
"Oh. Well, he knows his business and is a big boy." She quietly responded, chuckling at his shocked expression. "Gee, one would think that you are disappointed to find that I have grown up."
"I didn't mean that." He objected, feeling uncertain with this new Maeve.
She held up a hand, hiding a smile. "I know, Sinbad, I am different. But then, so are you. Go to Bryn. She's going to need the power of the bracelet to help her through the night."
"Right." He watched her move up the stairs. "Are you sure you'll be okay?"
"Good night, Sinbad." Her voice floated down to him, she smiled widely at Eyolf. "Hey." She drawled, accepting his hand as she climbed on board.
His face was serious, even if he did smile at her. "My crew found something we think you should see." She followed him, stopping suddenly when she saw the drenched figure and the hawk by her side. There was a smile in his voice. "Of course you know Dermott. But who is she?"
"Rumina." Her voice was flat, she was struggling with the bile rising in her throat. She may understand Rumina's behavior from a distance but that didn't help when she was staring right at her.
Dermott chirped and she turned towards him, listening as Dermott told her what had happened.
She turned to Eyolf, mastering her feelings. "I think you should ask Firouz to come here and take care of her."
Eyolf had been watching her struggle, nodded at one of the crew members who disappeared. "How are you doing?"
"I've been better. Seeing Bryn, talking to her...I feel free. Now that Rumina is here, I think we can face whatever is stalking us." She said, moving into his arms. There was a familiarity in their embraces, a comfort that spoke of deep affection. "The only problem with this picture is, I can't rest my head on your chest."
"Do you want to?" He asked. "I'm sure we could find a way."
She smiled alluringly. "Nah, I like being able to rest my head on your shoulder. It's easier to distract you from there."
"You distract me by being here." He said, kissing the top of her head. "Hello, Firouz."
"I wasn't sure if I should come when I heard who my patient would be." He placed his bag down, gesturing for Coral to help him.
Eyolf was confused but Maeve explained before he could say anything. "It's all right, Firouz. Rumina is the final link in the chain. Take care of her as you would me or Bryn. Eyolf, I'll explain everything later, okay?"
He shrugged, then took her hand. "We'll be in the galley if you need us."
Rumina shot straight up, panting. Her eyes flew around the room, searching for something. They met Maeve's in the dimly lit cabin. "Donestk..."
"Yes, we know. He's back among the living." Soothed Coral, trying to force her to lie down.
"No, you don't. That's not it." She shook her head furiously, frustrated with her inability to talk clearly. "You don't know, the powers he's using now...those powers were once mine. The goose egg, when it was used...to defeat me and Scratch, sent them...my powers...into him-Donestk." Her words were forced past a sea salted throat, they were rushed.
"I was afraid that's what happened." Bryn's voice carried into the room. Sinbad was holding her up, an angry look on his face. Rumina looked straight at her, eyes wide. Bryn's exasperated voice stopped any words she may have said. "Don't you start. You're not responsible, neither is Maeve. I knew something was off about him. Sinbad, let go."
"If I do, you'll fall down." His worry for her made his words sharper than he had intended.
"He's got a point." Peri said, entering the room. "But, Sinbad, Bryn needs to be here. Rumina's problem is something only we can fix."
"You'll kill her!" He objected, aghast at her words.
"No." Coral responded firmly, taking Bryn from him and moving her to her sister's side. "We will save her."
Eyolf moved to Sinbad's side, taking a strong hold on his arm. "Come. Let us leave them to their work. We must do ours and keep them safe. This room must be kept off limits to all."
He followed the Viking out of the room reluctantly, knowing that they were right. "I'm coming." It was a long night as they waited outside, feeling forces gathering in the air around them.
Inside the room, the girls gathered in a circle. They were surrounded by lighted candles, basking in the glow of the lights and a sense of renewed friendship. Dermott was in connection with them all but circling the sky above the ship, keeping an eye out for any incursions that might occur.
Maeve looked each girl in the eye, assessing them all. She calmly reminded them of the danger that might be awaiting them on this journey. "The astral plain is a new place for most of us, save Bryn who visits due to her place of authority. If any of us gets lost, there is no way to return. We are invaders but we need to be there, for this is the only place we can go to reclaim that which was stolen from Rumina. Everybody understand?"
"One thing." Bryn cautioned, squeezing Maeve and Rumina's hands. "If you feel anything negative towards yourself or anyone you're with, it will be amplified several hundred times. It will hit me like a ton of bricks, crushing my soul. And this time, I will not survive."
A taunt silence stretched between them, before each woman nodded her understanding. Maeve took a deep breath and looked straight at Rumina. "Why?"
"Dermott?" She finished. "My father was getting stranger by the day, evil seemed to invade his every waking and sleeping moment. Now, I know why. Donestk was slowly taking control of him. He-Donestk-planned to use Dermott to work his revenge by taking control of his body. The only way for your brother to be safe was for me to change him. I was also not thinking very clearly, I blamed you for what happened to Bryn. It was wrong of me."
"Not your fault alone. I let myself become a target." Maeve quickly said, feeling her way through the deep shock that filled her at the thought of Donestk being so close to them. "I can't believe that the swine has existed in our world that long without our knowledge! Why didn't he die?"
"We didn't finish the job." Peri calmly explained. "When we thought Bryn was dead, we let a part of him escape. Over the years, the bond between us all snapped and allowed him to pull more strength into him. He fed on our feelings of hate and insecurity, our sense of deep loss and failure to protect one of our own."
Coral snorted in disgust. "Are we idiotic or what? We handed him the very victory we physically robbed him of. He may not have received the world but we left it unprotected."
"Enough of this!" Maeve scolded, her brow wrinkled up. "The past is done and can't be undone. The future is at stake, so let's do it!"
Bryn dropped their hands and slowly moved into the circle they now formed. Maeve and Rumina linked hands, completing the circle again. Swaying lightly in time to an eternal beat, her hands flowed up and out, encompassing all of those in the room. Her hands rose and a gentle wind swirled about the room, moving faster with every sway of her body. The candles blew out blanketing them in darkness, then five lit up forming the symbol of the pentagram. A deep trance descended on the women as they felt themselves lift up and leave their bodies behind.
They struggled against the sensation, fear in their hearts until a voice counseled. "Peace. All is well." They dropped their guard, trusting in their friend, and entered a place of perfect white-except for one corner. They saw Bryn moving towards this place. Fear gripped them again but they pressed forward, Maeve reached out a hand and held Rumina's, gesturing that they should form a chain.
She caught Bryn's hand as they caught up with her. The miko didn't even pause, it was like she didn't even realize they were with her. She gestured and the darkness parted. She moved and pulled them in with her, pausing on the top of a precipice to allow them the chance to look around. A gasp of wonder escaped the four newcomers as the pure vista greeted their eyes. The land was green with a light blue sky, surrounded by a mist of stars. The sense of peace was so prevalent that they felt they could reach out and touch it. They moved down a nearly hidden path towards a circle of stones.
"Not all things shrouded in darkness are evil." An aged voice filled their minds but they realized with a sense of shock that it wasn't Bryn's voice.
"Hello, I am Aliki." A woman of Oriental descent stood smiling before them, watching them knowingly. She wasn't as old as her voice made her sound and was tall for a woman of her race. Her black hair was bound up around her head in a crown of braids, occasionally the light would hit it and show off blue highlights. Her eyes were dark brown, but were gentle and wise. "The Gate Keeper of the Vale of Avalon. What is it that you desire?"
Bryn looked at Maeve, who stepped forward. She curtsied before speaking. "We seek the retrieval of Rumina's guardianship, my lady."
The dark hair fell to the side as she looked at her curiously. "For what purpose? To be misused again."
"No. Never again." Rumina stated, moving out of the line and standing in front of Aliki. Maeve moved to interrupt, but stopped, realizing that this was Rumina's battle. "I lost to much." She ended sadly, glancing at her friends behind her.
"Then why?" Her ancient eyes focused on the woman shriven of her birthright.
"To stop Donestk and restore the balance-even if it means to lose my life." She said. "To pass the power on to someone who deserves it and will protect it."
A heart beat of silence past, then two more, before it seemed as though they must stand there forever awaiting her judgment. Her head nodded, the eyes filled with pleasure. "Then you have learned wisdom."
The five elementals sagged with relief. "How do we do this?" Maeve asked, taking control once more.
"Hold out your hands." She commanded, her voice soft with authority.
As the redhead did what she was told to, a heavy weight landed on her palms. She looked down at them and saw a sword, burning with a light all of its own. Shifting it so that she held it by the hilt, she felt power run up her arm, filling her with a purging and purifying flame. "What is it?" Her voice was filled with awe, as she felt a sheath form on her back using strands of her hair, flesh, and bits of her magic.
"The Sword of the Spirit, to be used only as a last resort. The power it contains destroys worlds. The sheath will shroud it from the darkness in times of rest and renew it in times of action. Don't let them be separated." Aliki cautioned, turning towards Peri. "Come forward, Child of the Earth."
Peri glided forward, kneeling before her. "I have had my eye on you for a long time. You were blessed with a practical nature and an honest heart." She paused, placing her hand on the young woman's head. "The gift I give you will need those gifts more than any other. I believe you can handle it. This is the seers stone, the future and the past are yours to see. To watch and guard, to preserve and protect."
"I will not abuse this gift." She promised as the knowledge exploded into her mind while her hands cradled the dark blue stone. The images flowed in an eternal round, Peri winced in pain but accepted it as a part of the gift.
Bryn pulled it away before it could harm her, placing it inside a locket and putting that on a chain. "Not all at once, my friend. You must slowly adapt to it."
"The battle, I saw it." Her words were spoken so quietly, Bryn had to strain to hear her. "I know the outcome."
The other girl nodded. "Then you must also have the strength to allow it to happen."
"But it..." Peri subsided at Bryn's look.
"Shhh...it is time for Coral's present." She soothed, stroking her friend's hair. Peri sighed and turned to watch the physician move and kneel before her.
Aliki stared thoughtfully down at Coral's bent head, she then tipped her face up. "My precious child, how lost you have been these last few years. Yet you somehow managed to find your way to your higher calling. Healing is one of the greatest gifts bestowed upon you, but it takes a physical toll on you doesn't it?"
"Yes." The physician agreed. "It is almost like their pain becomes my own."
"That's because it does. From this time forth, your gift is freedom from that pain. The healing stream flows inside you will renew itself whenever it is used." She paused, waiting for the delight to fade away before she cautioned. "This is a mixed blessing, little one. You will want to heal everyone but sometimes people cannot be saved. The pain in your soul will hurt more than the physical does."
"I understand." Coral said, rising slowly.
Aliki's hands rested on her shoulders, studying her and smiled. "I'm sure you do. Peri has a need of your care." She watched her join her friends, a sad light in her eyes. Her attention shifted to the last two women in the group, truly these were all unique women. They were chosen and tried in the very fires of Hell, never again would the world see their kind.
Bryn moved to stand by Rumina. The gate keeper beckoned to the wind guardian. "Go on." Her half sister pushed her gently forward.
Rumina moved, kneeling before her. "I have two gifts for you. One, I'm sure you'll recognize immediately." There was a laugh in her voice as she produced the Goose Egg. "I'm sure you'll know what to do with that."
"If I don't, I'm sure I have some help in learning." She agreed, with a lively grin. "But what do I need with any other? This path is no longer mine to tread worthily."
"Oh, but it is. You have been allowed to falter in order to lead others to the light." Aliki produced a large book that had no obvious end. "This is the book of wisdom, not to be confused with knowledge. It is a treasure of immense value to the world and you are to protect it for you have lived it."
"I don't know what to say." Rumina was stunned and accepted the book with trepidation.
"It, like the other gifts, has a downside. You will never be truly free of it, the book is a part of you life. And always will be from this day forth." Aliki met Bryn's eyes, calling her forth. "You've had quite a life, my little bard."
Bryn laughed gaily, dropping to her knee. "I know I did. I lived it. Bard?" There was a note of uncertainty in her voice as she repeated the word the Keeper had used. A thrill of awe filled her, this was more than she thought to attain.
(If you will allow me a moment of self insertion, I'll explain. And if this is to annoying, let me know. A bard in the traditional sense (at least of early Britain) was more than just a singer/storyteller. It was someone who had the power to sing things into being. They weren't really fighters, so much as someone who would uphold fighters in battle. An advisor to kings, a record keeper, a prophet, and a seeker and teacher of knowledge. The bard was a spiritual leader and had the power to awaken the dead. Merlin was such a bard. Thank you.)
Aliki nodded with solemn regality, moving her hand into the mist that had suddenly formed behind her. "Yes, bard. It is time to accept your staff and your place." An ancient oaken staff moved from behind her and towards Bryn, resting upon her uncertain hands, which curled around the wood. "This is the Rod of Truth. You are the only one who may use this, it will break if anyone else tries. Do not lose it for it is your connection to your higher place."
"Of course." She whispered, awed and adjusted to the feel of the wood in her hands. The power resting inside transferred itself to her, healing all of her wounds. Her sword belt fell away, the leather burned away and the sword's blade rusted completely never to be used seriously again. This is not to say that she would never wield a sword again, just that it would never be her main weapon again.
"He has entered. You must go and meet him." Her hand closed the veil of darkness, her voice suddenly called out to them. "One thing more. His life blood must not be shed here. Beware, there is a twin." She was cut off when the darkness finished closing.
Maeve sheathed the sword. "What did she mean about his life blood, Bryn? He is dead."
"No." Bryn objected, transferring the six foot staff to her left hand. "Rumina's powers and Scratch's interference gave him life. If we were to kill him here, it would bring condemnation upon this land."
Rumina tapped a finger against her cheek, thinking. "And the twin he mentioned?"
"Ah, now there, I can't help you." Bryn shrugged, not to concerned. "I don't know what that would refer to."
"Where is he?" Peri asked.
"In the game room." The bard moved forward, extending the staff in front of her to show the way. The staff formed a bar for the women to hold onto as they moved through the bright light. It was in one of the far corners of the realm where the light was the brightest.
"I was beginning to think you'd never show up." His silky voice greeted them from the center of the room. It took them a moment to adjust to the dim green light. Donestk rose from the chair he'd been resting on, a glass of cognac in his hand which he tipped in their direction. "Cheers."
Maeve shrugged gracefully, feeling the sword itching between her shoulder blades. "Oh, I doubt it will be for you in a moment. But thanks for the best wishes." Her smile was insincere, her hand rested on Rumina's shoulder as if to tell her to wait.
Donestk sipped and rolled the drink around on his tongue for a moment, savoring the flavor. "You could be right about that." He mused softly, watching them through lidded eyes. Quickly, he opened his robe and exposed his chest. "So, what are you waiting for? Finish me off. After all, it's what you've been waiting for all these years."
"Maybe some other time." Bryn ushered the girls towards another door, gesturing for Rumina to walk behind them.
"I didn't say you could leave!" He roared at them, glaring at their backs.
Coral turned and looked back at him. "You didn't say we could stay either!" Her voice was saucy, as was her grin. "Bye, daddy." She gave a little wave, following the others out.
The smell of burning flesh trailed after them. "What's he doing?" Rumina asked.
"He's trying to bring us back and turn us away from our real goal." Peri answered, shaking as the weight of her vision pressed upon her. She fingered the locket with restless fingers.
"Are you all right?" Coral asked, putting an arm around her shoulder as they moved farther up and in. The higher they went, the warmer it got and the lights seemed to soften and become a part of them.
Her head shook. "It hurts, right here." She explained, placing a hand over her heart.
Bryn glanced back at them, her gaze tender. They looked up when they felt her touch and saw it. "Peri, if your gift is too much, go back and trade it. Aliki will understand, but she trusts you. As do I."
"Its not that. I just didn't think it would be so hard to know what I now know." She shrugged, trying to make light of her fears. "How will we know him?"
Bryn's eyes narrowed but she let the subject drop. "Like I said, he'll be in the game room." A pair of stairs in black light formed to the right, they walked down them.
"But wasn't that the game room?" Rumina asked, though from the feeling of dread creeping into her heart, she knew that they were closing in on him.
"That was the solar room." Bryn looked at Maeve, then back at her sister. "You will be the only one allowed in there when we arrive. This battle is yours."
She nodded, determination filling her eyes. "I lost it on my own. I must retrieve on my own and thereby prove my own worth."
"That book must be working on you. You really sound like you know what you're talking about." Maeve grinned.
"Funny." She punched her arm lightly.
Maeve chuckled. "I thought so. Bryn?" She asked as a chill wind trailed up her spine.
The staff drew a circle on the ground, tapping out a pattern in the marks. Crystals grew where the staff touched. She made a sudden, sharp jab in the center and a crack opened up, the smell of jasmine filled the air. "This is the way in and the only way out." She clasped her sister's hand. "Good luck, Rumina."