Disclaimer: I am poor and own nothing. And because I'm poor, this is my only source of entertainment, so please do not sue.
Dedication: This chapter is dedicated to Gwenn0. I hope this helps with your writer's block my dear! I know it's not Lancelot with a big fire hose, but it's the best I could do.
Authors Note: Sorry for the delay, I've was sick for a good week or two after New Years and that didn't make for a very productive writing environment. Especially the inability to breathe taking away oxygen from the one little brain cell I have left that didn't go on vacation. The rest of the wait I must admit has been catching up on some reading. I had never read the Harry Potter books before, and once I started I just couldn't put them down. But since I go back to school the 18th I thought I owed you all an update and have stopped before I began book 4 to write this. Hope this was worth the wait.
Ulric – English; medieval form meaning wolf power
Pandora – Greek Mythology; means all gifts. Zeus gave her a box containing all of the troubles and ills that mankind now knows, and told her not to open it. Unfortunately her curiosity got the best of her and she opened it, unleashing the evil spirits into the world. Another story where women don't come out very good in it.
And as always, any spell used comes from Ivy's Pentacles. Great sight for anyone interested in learning more about the Wicca way. Parts of it have been altered to fit the story.
THANK YOU ALL REVIEWERS!
The Priestesses of Avalon
Chapter Twenty-Nine: Changes & Funerals
Everything became so surreal for Tristan after Mariska uttered those fateful words. Everything began to move then. The priestesses fell into motion, bustling about the hall, ushering Dagonet and Lucan into the room with Hayley, the others all rushing to do whatever task they knew awaited them in preparation for Sonia's funeral.
Mariska stood there, almost a part from it all, completely stationary as around her everyone bustled, her sad eyes lingering on Tristan's before she tore them away as Beatrix approached her.
"Hold your tongue sister, or I will rip it from your mouth myself," Mariska growled at her, before the other woman could even part her lips to speak, causing her to pause in shock. After a moment she nodded, ducking her head and moving away from Mariska.
Tristan moved towards her then, the other knights, save Dagonet, and Fay coming as well, like moths drawn to the flame of a candle. They reached her just as her white tiger padded up, pushing her large head into Mariska's hand, looking sadly up at her mistress.
"Tell the others. We burn her at sundown," she gave the animal a loving scratch before sending her away, her eyes looking dully up at the men and fair haired woman surrounding her.
"I am sorry Mariska," Arthur spoke quietly, looking sadly at her. He knew what it was like to loose someone whom you looked to as a parent, and at that moment, Pelagius's face flashed before his mind. "Is there aught we can do?"
"Nay, the girls are aware of what is needed," Mariska answered, a far off look in her eyes as she gazed at her sisters, bustling about around her, the grief in the halls of Avalon overpowering. "She died to save her daughter and her granddaughter," she murmured sadly, hugging her arms around her. "There is a Woad scout outside, could you tell him to send for my Grandfather, he will need to see Beatrix for a spell to bring him here before sundown. I will need him for the funeral."
"Of course," Arthur nodded. "Is there aught else?"
"I do not think so," she sighed looking up and locking eyes with him. "You were a wise choice for King Arthur, do you know that? Men will know your name a millennia from now, and speak it in awe."
Arthur looked at her for a moment, more than a bit taken aback.
"Mariska are you well?" Fay asked softly, reaching out and resting a hand on the other woman's arm. "We are here should you need us you know."
"Aye, better than most," Mariska sighed. "I am just tired. This night has taken much out of me I fear," she tried to smile at them, the action forced, and the tears in her eyes evident. "She is the second mother I have to burry."
"But you are nay alone," Tristan stated, his eyes locking with hers as a single tear rolled down her cheek, his hand instinctively reached out, a calloused thumb brushing it gently away. She nodded slowly, not trusting her voice as she took a moment to compose herself, leaning her face into his hand.
Outside the window, the roar of a tiger sounded and was answered by every animal that could have been imagined, each of their wails filled with grief and sorrow that chilled the men to their very bones.
"Tis the same when 'er a priestess dies," Mariska whispered at the shocked looks on the knight's faces. "Especially one as powerful as Sonia."
"Sister," Izumi said softly, her head bowed as she approached, to hide the tears in her eyes.
"Yes Izumi?" Mariska reached out a hand and brushed it along the Asian woman's cheek, catching her chin and forcing her to look at her, a mutual sadness in both their eyes.
"He is restless, and wishes your council," she answered softly.
"Than send him in," Mariska sighed, averting her eyes to her hands as Izumi nodded, rushing off down the hall, her dark blue robe, golden and red dragons embroidered over the skirt and chest clinging tightly to her frame as she ran. "Constance?"
"Yes Mariska?" the fair-haired woman appeared from the bedroom where she was helping Zita and Dagonet tend Hayley and the babe.
"Bring me the child, and her name," Mariska stated tiredly. Constance nodded and disappeared behind the door again. "Tell Hayley he has come to find out why Sonia has died."
It amazed the knights at the change that had come over Mariska. She had always been a leader in their eyes, and a strong woman, but now there was something else. Something calmer, and more powerful. Something that they didn't quite understand, but could not help but respect.
A moment later the grand gilded doors at the end of the hall opened, Izumi moving quickly through them and holding them open as a large black wolf lumbered through them, fangs bared and saliva pouring from the tips, his coarse fur spiked as he stalked down the hallway, growling viciously at Mariska.
Around her knights, king and Fay drew their swords only to have Mariska's hands rise to stop them. "It is alright, it is me he has come to see."
The beast let out a feral bark, snapping at Mariska, in an almost accusing fashion.
"I do not see why you are so surprised, she was dying after all," Mariska stated, her voice betraying none of the exhaustion she had previously displayed. "What did you expect her to do?"
The wolf growled angrily, snapping at her as he continued to pace the hall.
"Before you make such vows, don't you wish to meet the one she gave her life for?" Mariska asked with a sigh, raising an eyebrow at the disgruntled creature, crossing her arms across her chest. It was at that moment the door to Hayley's room opened once more, Constance stepping out before Dagonet, who was holding his small daughter close to his chest.
"You wished to see her Mariska?" he asked, pausing in shock at the large wolf glaring hungrily in his direction.
"Yes Dagonet, bring her here, do not be afraid," she turned and held her hand out to Dagonet, encouraging him forward. With a nod from Arthur, Dagonet stepped towards her, keeping a watchful eye on the beast before them, stopping next to Mariska. "And what have you chosen to call her?"
"Pandora," Dagonet stated with a ghost of a smile. "Somehow Hayley thought it best."
Mariska couldn't help but chuckle. "Let us hope she will not be in charge of the plagues of man," she said softly, taking Pandora gently from his arms. "Here, look at her closely. She is who your mistress died to save, and who you should offer your life to protect." Much to Dagonet's horror, Mariska knelt down, offering the baby to the hungry looking wolf. With a start he went to take her back only to watch the wolf sniff his daughter gently.
In awe the knights and ladies in the hall witnessed as Pandora reached out a small hand, clamping down onto the large animals nose tightly, and the wolf merely sat down, gazing intently at the child before letting out a small whimper of a sound.
Mariska looked up at Dagonet with a broad smile. "He has agreed to take her into his packs protection," she stated, a hint of relief in her voice before she turned back to the animal, gently detaching the babies hand from the creatures nose. "Go and tell the pack, and inform the others that the funeral rite will be performed at sundown, and I expect their allegiances to be made known then as well," she gave the wolf an affectionate pat, rubbing his ear for a moment before moving to rise, Tristan instantly at her side, helping her to stand.
The wolf rose as well, turning to go when he suddenly paused, sniffing the air. They all watched as he turned back to the group, continuing to sniff each of them in turn until he came to Fay, stopping and sniffing vigorously all the way around her.
"What's this?" Gawain asked as the wolf butted his way between the two to circle Fay, his nose still rapidly moving over her.
"I have no idea, Ulric, what are you doing?" Mariska asked, handing Pandora back to her father before walking towards the great wolf, watching as Fay leaned down, rubbing the great creatures head slowly before scratching him just behind the ears.
The wolf growled contentedly in response, his large head pushing into Fay's hand as she continued to massage his ears.
"I think he likes me," she observed with a smirk over to Gawain.
"That's an understatement," Mariska murmured, a shocked expression on her face at whatever it was the wolf had said. "Are you sure Ulric?"
Another growl from the wolf, this one sounding almost sarcastic in nature, put an annoyed expression on Mariska's face.
"Fine, if you say so then it must be, just go and inform the others please," she replied curtly, crossing her arms again over her chest once more. The wolf reluctantly rose and gave Mariska one final snarl before trotting from the room, the door slamming magically behind him.
"Wot was that all about?" Bors asked, looking quizzedly between Dagonet, Arthur and Mariska.
"Patience Bors, all will be shown," Mariska smiled kindly at him, the tiredness showing in her face. "I fear we have been too secretive with you already and that must change, if we are to work together. But now I am afraid I am very very tired, and must rest before we perform the services."
"Of course Mariska," Arthur placed a hand on her shoulder, giving it a comforting squeeze. "Again I must ask if there is aught that we can do to aid you my sister?" It was the first time Arthur had ever called her sister and it gladdened her heart to hear, easing her grief ever so slightly.
"Nay brother," she smiled broadly at him giving his arm a grateful squeeze. "Just inform the scout outside, Constance, take him to Beatrix, tell her to make the spell or it will be her head in the center of my table with an apple betwixt her lips."
Constance bowed with a smirk. "Of course Lady."
"And the rest of you can help where 'er you see the need," here she reached out a hand to Galahad, who looked at her in surprise before taking it. "She has connected with you, I see it in the air whenever you two are together. She will need you now more than ever. Sonia was more a mother to her than she was to any of us, do you understand?"
As she had spoken to him Shireen's beautiful face had flashed before Galahad's mind, and the grief that he had seen there when she and Esmeralda had exited the room, Sonia's body between them. He gave a slow nod, locking eyes with her. "I won't let you down Mariska."
"Good lad, you will be the strongest one day Galahad, because of the purity of your heart," she gave his hand a squeeze while Fay reached out and ruffled his hair at the blush that had come to his cheeks. "Now if you will all excuse me, I must rest," she turned to Tristan then, locking eyes with him fully. "I need know one thing more before I do, and know that however you answer this question I will fully understand, no matter how much the answer may pain my heart."
"Then ask, and we will see my answer," Tristan replied, looking down at her, his face it's passive mask as always.
"I need to know if you are with me now?" Mariska said in a small voice, forgetting that they had quite an audience in his brothers and her sisters.
He regarded her for a long moment before cupping her head in his hand, tangling his fingers in her hair as he did, leaning forward and placing a gentle kiss on her forehead. He pulled back then, locking eyes with her once more. "Where else would I be?"
A feeling of both relief and a hint of sadness fell over Mariska as she reached her hands up, wrapping them about his neck in a tight embrace. She released him reluctantly, taking his arm before turning towards Jasmine, who had reemerged from assisting Esmeralda and Shireen with Sonia's body. "Jasmine, can you see to the preparations sister?"
"Of course, rest," Jasmine gave her arm a squeeze, both women leaning their foreheads against one another as a fresh wave of grief passed over them. "Do not worry about a thing."
Mariska pulled back, nodding slowly as she leaned heavily against Tristan. "Come then, I need rest." Silently he led her down the hall, towards the very end where it forked on either side of the gilded doors. They turned to the left as he led her towards her quarters.
"Are you alright?" Fay asked Jasmine, all eyes turning on the blind woman in concern.
"As well as can be expected. She was mother to us all," Jasmine sighed. "There is much that needs done. Where are the other sisters?"
"Already starting on their tasks Jasmine," Izumi answered, taking her place next to Constance.
"And Bethania?"
"With Varvara. She took Sonia's death very hard," Constance spoke up, her eyes clouding in fresh sorrow.
"Bring her, Varvara too. Bring everyone. There is much we must do before Sonia can be sent to the Gods," Jasmine stated, waving off the two women who hurried down the corridor. "Dagonet I am assuming you and Lucan will be staying with Hayley today?"
"Yes. She is very weak, and I am reluctant to leave her side," he admitted, looking back down to his daughter, who had slipped back into a peaceful slumber, her small hand, no bigger than one of her fathers fingers, wrapped around the edge of his jerkin.
"Nor should you. She will need your strength now, especially at the funeral," Jasmine agreed.
"Surely she is too weak to attend," Lancelot stated, his hands on his hips.
"She will wish to attend nonetheless," Jasmine answered. "And who are any of us to tell her she cannot. Sonia was her mother as well."
"I am going to go check on her Arthur," Dag said, turning to his King.
"Yes of course, we will let you know if you are needed," Arthur waved him off as the Bethania and Varvara came around the corner from the right, the small girls hand clutched in the older woman's, both sniffling quietly, Izumi and Constance appearing close behind, several Priestesses in their wake.
"Bors, perhaps you and Gawain could help Jia, Ayo and Eavan to build the pier? And Fay, if it is not too much trouble, could you help Sorcha, Izumi and Faina with preparing the dresses we are to wear?"
"Course lass," Bors nodded as the three women came to his side, offering him grateful smiles.
"Anything you need Jasmine," Fay answered, Gawain nodding his agreement next to her, the other three women coming to her side.
"Thank you all. Lancelot, Galahad, Esmeralda and Shireen have taken the unhappy task of preparing Sonia onto their shoulders," Jasmine turned to the two dark haired men. "They will need you both now. They are in the sacred chamber in the lower depths of Avalon. After I have spoken to my sisters, I will have one of them take you down there."
The women had joined them by that time, Izumi fetching Zita from Hayley's room so that they all stood around Jasmine save for Mariska, Esmeralda and Shireen.
"You called us?" Beatrix asked, relieved to see that Mariska was not among them, questioning why she had strove so hard to make the other woman high priestess in the first place.
"I did, and watch what you say before you find yourself in the horses trough, the top frozen over," Jasmine barked at her before turning back to the others. "There is much that must be done. Zita, make sure that Hayley is in fact well enough to attend this evening. Beatrix, you are to go with Arthur and inform the scout downstairs that Merlin is needed, and provide him with a strong enough spell to get the old man here by nightfall. After you have done that you will report to Bethania and take orders from her," here Jasmine knelt in front of the small girl, staring intently at her with sightless eyes. "Bethania, you must prepare the animals, do you understand how?"
"Uh-huh," she nodded, sniffling again.
"Good. Luminita and Beatrix will help you in that task," Jasmine patted her cheek affectionately before rising again. "Mariska is resting now, in preparation for the ceremony tonight. If you must see her, come to myself first, and see if it can be avoided. She will need all her strength to perform the services tonight, and all of our strength as well."
"As always we have one another to lean on," Zita said softly.
"As we always will," Luminita agreed.
"Spoken true my sisters," Jasmine agreed. "I have just one more thing to say before we can all get started on the tasks ahead. After Sonia is among the Gods, we are all to meet in the great hall. There is much to discuss. Arthur, you and your men will need to be there as well."
"Why are you calling this meeting? And why would we want them at our table?" Beatrix growled, eyeing her suspiciously.
"Because I am, now go do your job and I'll not have another word from you," Jasmine glared menacingly at her, her white eyes making Beatrix shudder involuntarily.
"Come then, Beatrix is it?" Arthur said, taking Jasmine's hand in it and giving it a squeeze while he leaned forward, kissing her lips softly, running a hand gently over her cheek before turning to his men. "You have your assignments. Help wherever you are needed," with that he turned on his heel and walked down the hallway, Beatrix grumbling at his side, shooting him glares as they went.
"You all have your orders as well. Lancelot, Galahad, if you each follow me, I will take you down to the girls, the rest of you find me when you are finished and we will tend to whatever is left," Jasmine spoke softer once Beatrix had left, smiling sadly at all of them.
"Come sisters," Izumi spoke as Zita disappeared once again into Hayley's room and the rest of them dispersed, Fay kissing Gawain sweetly before following Izumi and the others towards the doors.
"This way," Jasmine turned and walked in silence, the two men catching easily up with her. They walked through the doors at the end of the hall and down the grand staircase, great enough for at least seven of the Bishops wagons to ride side by side, her white gowns flowing behind her down the stairs as they moved.
As soon as they reached the bottom she turned and headed for a darker part of the castle, heading towards a small door at the back, one the knights had not seen before. When they reached it, Jasmine stopped, reaching for a torch that was kept near the entrance.
"Normally I do not need this, but I expect you would both like to see where you are going," she smiled sadly at them, before turning down towards the dark corridor, the narrow stone steps descending into a blackness that light of the torch barely penetrated.
"Jasmine," Lancelot placed a firm hand on her shoulder, stopping her. "I just want you to know, that we are sorry for all your loss," he spoke quietly and solemnly, giving her arm a squeeze.
"Thank you," her voice was barely above a whisper as she turned to look at them. "But words mean nothing, it is action that counts," she continued quietly. "And your actions thus far have proven the sincerity of your souls more than any words ever could. Now, shall we?"
With that they descended into darkness, and while Galahad knew that they were safe, especially with Jasmine as a guide, he could not help the feeling of dread that sent a shiver down his spine.
xoxoxoxoxoxox
"You have a very beautiful sister Lucan," Zita stated as she wrapped the baby in a warm blanket, having changed the cloth diaper for Hayley, Lucan watching her intensely.
"Yes, but will she always look like father?" he asked softly, indicating Pandora's bald head, his voice carrying across the room, causing his parents to chuckle.
"Nay, one day she will have beautiful hair," Zita smiled at him. "Many babes are born with bare heads."
"Really?" Lucan said curiously, trying to think back to all the babies that he had seen over his short life, striving to remember any of them being bald.
"Aye, which is why, we place the coverings over their heads, so that they stay warm," she produced a bonnet from her pocket, showing it to Lucan before tying it around Pandora's head. It was made of a thick wool and dyed a beautiful pale lilac. "Sonia made this for her, just before you arrived," she added as an afterthought, a sadness to her tone as she lifted up the babe to take it back to her parents.
"She did not warn you either then," Hayley sighed, leaning back further into the pillows and Dagonet's arms, as he sat leaning against the headboard on the bed with her. The sheets and blankets, as well as Hayley's gown, had all been changed earlier, before the men had been allowed entrance, and everything shown a bright white. "Of her intentions?"
"Nay," Zita smiled, rocking the baby gently in her arms as she moved. "She did not even tell Mariska that she intended it to be herself. We think only Jasmine knew the truth."
"And Arthur," Dagonet agreed. "He told us that one would die who was not you, but would not tell us who."
"Shame too, as I'm sure several wished it were Beatrix," Zita teased halfheartedly, placing the baby in Hayley's arms, Lucan climbing up on the bed, his eyes still trained on his sister. "You are blessed my sister," she leaned over and kissed Hayley's cheek, Hayley returning the gesture, before rising. "Now, if you are to be strong enough to attend the service, than I must go and fetch you some lunch. Lucan, could you assist me?"
"I do not wish to leave her though," he answered, still watching the tiny baby in his mother's arms. She seemed so weak, and fragile, and he wanted nothing to harm her.
"Go and help her boy," Dagonet ordered, then added in a softer tone, "I will let nothing happen to either of them."
"Yes father," he said with a sigh and jumped from the bed, taking the hand Zita offered him, walking briskly from the room, the door closing behind them with a gentle thud.
"She is beautiful isn't she Dagonet?" Hayley breathed as soon as the door was closed, her eyes on her small daughter.
"Like her mother," Dagonet replied, kissing Hayley's temple, before stroking Pandora's cheek.
"And well guarded if the wolves have agreed to watch her," Hayley went on, tears coming to her eyes. "Worthy of the sacrifice," as the words left her lips tears spilled from her eyes.
Dagonet immediately pulled her closer to him, careful of the baby, trying to sooth her as her frustration and grief poured from her lips.
"I was prepared, I was, to make the sacrifice myself. To break my word to you so that she could live. I never wished for it to be Sonia! It was my burden to bare, not hers!"
"Listen to me Hayley," he captured her chin and forced her to look at him, his deep brown eyes penetrating her own. "You must not feel guilty about this! Sonia knew what she was doing. She must have had a reason wanting to give herself in your place. And as you and the others are so quick to remind me, no Priestess of Avalon is ever alone in their burden."
"But Dagonet, she is my daughter…"
"And she needs her mother," he stated firmly, his voice soft as he stroked her cheek, brushing tears away. "And I for one am proud. The greatest Priestess alive, head of the temple of Avalon, felt that our little girl was worth her own life. Felt you were worth her life. Now, all we can do to make Sonia's sacrifice mean something is to care for Pandora as best we can, making sure she knows no pain, or hunger, or what it is like to be unloved."
"I do not believe she will ever know that husband," Hayley murmured softly, the tears drying on her cheeks as she rested her head on his shoulder, snuggling closer with their daughter. "How did you get to be so wise."
"Listening to Arthur I suppose," Dagonet mused, taking a moment to thank the Goddess for blessing his life once more. And, thanking Sonia.
xoxoxoxoxoxox
"'ow does she do that?" Bors asked Ayo as they stood outside the temple near the forest surrounding it, watching Jia float above them, jumping on the tops of the trees, walking easily on the flimsiest branches, tying ribbons around the limbs before slicing through them with a thin, delicate looking blade.
"She is blessed with the wind forever on her side," Ayo smiled, following his gaze. "Jia can become light as the smallest feather to walk amongst the trees."
"Why does she keep tying the tree up?" Gawain asked, coming over as well, wiping at the sweat on his forehead with the back of his hand. Both he and Bors had discarded their heavier clothing and were in nothing but breeches as they helped move the larger logs into place for the base of the funeral pyre.
"She is sending the trees spirit into its trunk, so it will feel no pain when she slices through it's branches," Eavan stated, walking with a large basket of dried grass and herbs, to spread around the top where Sonia's body would be placed, similar bunches spread along the walls of the structure, tied beautifully with dyed pieces of ribbon, a large bunch of fresh roses tucked into the pocket of the white apron she wore.
"I'm sure they are happy to make the sacrifice, considering the reason," Ayo spoke with a sad sigh, walking over to heft the branch that had just fallen, nothing but thick leather breeches and a large strap of leather over her breasts, exposing her cocoa skin to the sun.
It had shocked the two men when she had first come out in it, but they had quickly adapted, Bors even going as far to ask her if she had a spare for Vanora. It hadn't taken them long after arriving to realize that those of the temple did things much differently than any of the women they had known before.
"Wot's your gift then?" Bors asked, as he took the other end, helping her walk it over to the pyre while Gawain climbed to the top to position it. They were nearly done and he was more than grateful for that.
"I am a huntress," Ayo answered as they hefted the heavy branch up onto the pyre, the last one needed to complete the waist high structure. "I can track anything."
"Like Tristan then?" Gawain panted, resting his hands on his knees.
"Not quite," she smiled good-naturedly up at him.
"Unless of course Mariska's man can blend with the foliage," Eavan added, stopping as she came to the tope of the pyre, basket in hand, to look at them curiously. "Can he?"
"Not by magic my dear lady, but Tristan has been known to disappear," Gawain chuckled, jumping down to join them. "I think that will do it Lady Ayo."
"Good, for tis already mid afternoon, and I do not know about you, but I am ravenous," she smiled kindly at them before looking to the tree, cupping her hands around her mouth. "WE ARE DONE SISTER! COME AND JOIN US ON THE GROUND!"
"Do you think Constance has had time to cook anything?" Eavan asked, spreading out great handfuls of herbs before tossing the basket down to Ayo, taking out the roses from her pockets she began ripping off the petals, spreading them evenly as well. "Or the energy?"
Ayo set the basket down, brushing her hands on her pants. "I have no doubt that she has sister. She does after all, have more energy than even Bethania can muster."
"Are you certain I have collected enough?" Jia's soft voice drew their eyes to the forest, where she was emerging from the path.
"Aye, did they give you much trouble?" Ayo asked curiously.
"Nay. They mourn her full as much as we. And were glad for whatever they could contribute," she answered softly before turning to the two knights. "We thank you for you assistance."
"T'was no trouble," Gawain assured her, reaching down for his shirt.
"Any kind of help is gladly given, for you saving our Hayley," Bors agreed.
"It is good to hear you claim them as family Bors," Ayo smiled, clapping him on the back. "It assures us that they were well protected while away from our walls."
The other two nodded their agreement as Eavan finished with her petals, looking towards the heavens. "Night approaches quickly. Soon Sonia will truly be gone from us."
A somber silence fell over the women before Bors clapped a large hand gently on Ayo's shoulder. "Come then, let us eat. There is still much to do."
They all three smiled gratefully at him, Ayo nodding her head as they began to move across the grounds.
Meanwhile, across the compound in a small circular courtyard where the fountain spring was located, Fay helped Izumi, Sorcha and Faina to clean out the priestesses' gowns. She paused to admire the fountain in the center for a moment, the beautiful stature of a fierce warrior woman, bow drawn, a stag standing guard close to her side, water flowing from the bag at her waist.
"Diana, the huntress," Izumi explained, handing Fay another full jar of water to place in the great cauldron that Sorcha was heating with her hands. "One of the great Goddesses."
"I've heard of her," Fay replied, casting one more look at the statue before walking over towards the great pot, where Faina was stirring the cloth inside, pouring the water in.
"Esmeralda tells us you performed the blood tie to save Hayley's life, while you traveled here?" Faina spoke softly, her accent thick, and her eyes filled with admiration.
"I did, and would again in a moment," Fay answered, setting the jar down near the fountain.
"Was very brave of you lass and very wise," Sorcha stated, removing her hands and rising as the water began to boil. "Not many not of Avalon would have known to do it."
"I did not know, I knew only that they needed me. That was enough," Fay replied brushing away the compliments, watching the red and black fabric swirl in the bubbling water.
"Spoken like a true priestess," Izumi commented with a smile.
"You know, by joining blood, you did take a part of us into you. We all take a blood oath when coming to the temple, sharing our power and our knowledge," Faina commented, locking eyes with Sorcha over the pot, a knowing look passing between them.
"And we do have an extra gown…" the Scottish woman replied with a smirk.
"Oh please, no gowns," Fay stated immediately, backing away, her hands before her. "I despise them so."
"Then why have you had one on everyday since coming here?" Faina asked, quirking a curious eyebrow at the dark blue gown the woman had on now, with it's soft, flowing white sleeves.
"Looks can be deceiving," she replied with a sly smile, lifting the skirt to reveal a pair of breeches beneath. "I could not dishonor such a ceremony."
"Would be no dishonor," Sorcha smiled at her. "Ayo will be doing the same, as will Luminita I'm sure."
"Besides, Sonia would wish you to stand as our equal," Izumi stated, rising and wrapping an arm about Fay's waist, giving her a squeeze.
"And, more importantly, Beatrix won't, which is the perfect reason to do it," Faina added with a slight smirk.
"Well, if you put it in such a way," Jasmine stated, pondering it for a moment. "Best make sure I stand next to her."
The three women broke out into a hearty laugh as they continued to clean the garments in the bright afternoon sun. Sonia's death still fresh in their hearts and on their minds.
xoxoxoxoxoxox
As they descended into the lower depths of the temple Lancelot had one thought on his mind. Esmeralda. He knew of her bond with the temple and her sisters, and with Sonia, and knew that she would take it harder than she may show.
They came off the steps into a dully-lit sub area, the hallway wide, lit periodically with torches, branching off into several different hallways.
"It is a labyrinth down here," Jasmine commented. "Some of our most dangerous secrets are hidden away down here. No one who is not a temple could find their way back out again."
"What would happen to them?" Galahad asked, looking nervously around.
"They'd die," Jasmine answered, coming to a stop before a large door, covered in ancient carvings. "This is the only room not hidden," she continued, just as Esmeralda and Shireen came out, leaning heavily on one another.
Lancelot immediately had her in his arms, smothering her in kisses, whispering soothing nothings into her ear as he led her up the stairs, her leaning heavily against him. He had her up the stairs and in her room in an instant, he sat down on the bed and pulled her into his lap as she sobbed into his neck, rocking her slowly back and forth, trying to sooth her.
"She's gone Lance. I didn't know she could ever be gone," she sobbed into his chest, clutching him close to her.
"I know love, I know," he soothed, letting her cry it all out of her system.
"I just feel so helpless," she continued, her body shaking violently in his arms.
"I know."
"She was the only mother I've ever known."
"I know."
"What am I going to do Lancelot?" she looked up at him then, tears in her eyes.
"Well," he said after a moment, brushing the hair away from her face. "You will cry, and you will grieve, and lean on your sisters and me when you need to, and you will get through this."
"How can you be so sure? It hurts so much," she sniffled, her arms wrapped tightly about his neck.
"Because I know you. And you are stronger than you know. And Sonia loved you as a mother should. And she would not have left you on your own could you not get through this."
"Whatever did I do to deserve you, my brave knight?" she whispered, awe in her voice.
"You were you, and you deserve much better," he answered, hauling her to him, resting his chin on her head. "And I am lucky that you will have me."
"That is where you are mistaken," she stated, hugging him tightly, tears falling silently down her face.
xoxoxoxoxoxox
Galahad's heart had nearly broken when they had descended into the lower depths of the castle and come to a stop outside of the preparation room, just as Esmeralda and Shireen were exiting. The look on her face had nearly killed him, causing him to forget the uncomfortable feelings brought on by the lower levels of the temple. He vowed to himself at that very moment to forever keep her from harm, and to never let anything hurt her as the head priestess's death had.
While Lancelot had rushed Esmeralda into his arms and disappeared upstairs with her, Galahad had given Jasmine and Shireen a few moments to speak, keeping back a bit to keep from listening. After what felt like eternity Jasmine gave Shireen's arm a gentle squeeze before turning to head up the stairs slowly, leaving the only other lantern for them.
Their eyes met and locked and before Galahad knew what was happening her legs buckled, a sob escaping her lips and he rushed, catching her just before she hit the ground, easing her the rest of the way. They stayed like that for a great while, Galahad clutching her closely to his chest while she wept into his jerkin, clinging tightly to him.
When it appeared she had no tears left to shed, he captured her chin, tilting her head towards him, locking eyes with her once more.
"What do you say we go upstairs to some warmth?" he offered, gently brushing some stray tears from her cheeks.
She nodded slowly, and let him help her from the ground and take the lantern, leading them up the narrow staircase once more and out into the main entrance to the castle. He replaced the torch in the sconce outside the door and was about to lead her back upstairs when she clutched his arm, shaking her head slowly and said in a small, tear laced voice, "I do not wish to go up there just yet."
"Alright, where shall we go then?" he asked gently, his arm wrapped tightly about her waist, holding her up gently.
"This way," she led him off towards another long corridor. They walked for several minutes, past statues and paintings, and tapestries of every color and design imaginable. After a moment they came to a large oak door, which she opened gently, pushing into the room, Galahad close to her side.
Galahad was struck immediately by the grandness of the small room. Ornate furnishings and pillows in rich reds and gold's adorned the small space, and books and parchments lined the walls. A small fire burned in the hearth and a large exotic plant was growing in a great pot near the window. It almost seemed to move towards them as they entered, and Galahad noticed her smile slightly for the first time since they left Hayley's room.
"Isn't he beautiful?" she commented, walking over to the plant and giving its leaves a loving caress. "I brought him with me from home, when I came here, to Avalon."
"Where is your home?" Galahad asked, sinking down onto a pillow near the fire, watching her closely as she continued to finger the plant before turning to face him, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.
"Sarmatia. I came when I was but a child," she smiled, walking slowly over to him.
He held out his hands to her, a shocked, yet extremely happy expression on his face. "Sarmatia? That is my home. What tribe were you?"
"I can hardly remember it was so long ago. I know that my grandmother was an Amazonian healer though," she answered sadly, taking his hands and allowing him to steady her as she sat on the pillow next to his. "I just remember the grass…and the sky…it was so beautiful."
"How did you come to be here?" Galahad asked, curiously, inching closer to her and taking her gently into his arms, easing her against his chest.
She sighed softly as she settled, letting his strong arms wrap around her, relaxing into the embrace. "My family was killed by Saxons. The whole village slaughtered. I remember playing in the fields, chasing a dog across the grass when I noticed how black the sky had become. But it wasn't like the blackness it takes before a storm. This was darker. So I ran home, and found the village burning, and my mother and father…" her voice trailed off and she turned, burring her head into his chest as he held her, running a hand slowly down her hair, comforting her as best he could.
"I'm sorry," he murmured, cursing himself for asking. "I did not know. Do not speak of it now. I am so sorry, I did not mean to cause you more pain," he rushed, rocking her slowly in his arms.
"No, I am fine," she sniffled and leaned back against his shoulder, looking up into his handsome features. "I wish to tell you, please let me."
"Very well. I think I could deny you nothing," Galahad smiled shyly down at her, a blush already creeping to his cheeks under her stare.
"When I found my mother she was by the river. I guess she was trying to run to find me, I can never know for sure. I remember drawing her head into my lap and feeling more alone than I ever had in my entire existence. And I remember weeping, the tears falling like rain on the water. And then the most miraculous thing happened. A beautiful woman appeared in the water, and her smile was the kindest I had ever seen. And her voice, it was like the tinkling of fairy wings, I can still hear it, and it filled me with such peace," a smile came to Shireen's face as she spoke, her body relaxing further against Galahad's body.
"And what did she say?" he asked, enraptured with the story, and captivated by how much more beautiful she became while telling it.
"She said that it was a tragic thing, and that my mother loved me more than the stars in the sky. But there was aught I could do save go and be safe, as was my mother's last wish. She told me to come here. That I would be safe and loved and never alone again," she looked at him again, his hands now locked over her stomach, hers coming to rest on top of his. "And so I set off, and when I got here Sonia took me in immediately, making me her personal maid, smothering me with a love I thought only my mother could bestow."
"Was it she who came to you in the water?" Galahad asked, reaching up and brushing a stray brown curl away from her rich brown eyes, his fingers lingering on her cheek.
"Nay, was Viviane. The high priestess before Sonia. She had been dead for many years then, but they say her spirit travels the lands, looking for girls to lead here, to their true home," she answered, loosing herself in his deep blue eyes, noting the blush quickly returning to his cheeks.
"Is a very beautiful story," he murmured, his hand slowly leaving her face, his blush intensifying.
"Why do you always do that?" she asked suddenly. At his confused expression she elaborated. "Blush when you look at me?"
This only caused him to blush more, averting his eyes from hers. "I suppose it is because I like you very much Lady Shireen," he said quietly, after a very long pause.
"Do you?" she asked, taken a bit aback by the revelation. She had never dreamed that anyone as handsome as he was could ever come into her life, let alone claim feelings for her.
"I do," he looked up suddenly, locking eyes with her. "I want to take care of you," he said after a moment, his voice softer than before. "I know that I can take care of you if you'll but let me," he looked hopefully into her eyes, shaggy brown curls falling forward as he leaned a bit closer to her.
She looked at him for a very long moment before reaching up, brushing the hair back and holding it against his head. "I would very much like to let you," she said just as softly.
Both leaned forward then as their lips met in a gentle yet passionate kiss, full of promises and innocent love.
xoxoxoxoxoxox
Arthur watched absentmindedly while Beatrix placed the spell in the Woad's hands, casting another around him in preparation for his departure. He let out a heavy sigh and ran a hand over his face. This was certainly not how he had planned to spend his first year as king.
With a heavy heart he turned away from them, walking over towards a wooden fence and leaning against it, his hands clasped in prayer.
"Merciful God, please have mercy now. Help to bring peace to these women's hearts and minds, and lead Sonia into the white light awaiting her…" his prayer was cut off by a bitter voice.
"God, isn't listening to you."
Arthur turned to Beatrix, who had her arms crossed over her chest, eyeing him angrily. "He listens to all His children, if they only just…"
"Just open their hearts to His love," Beatrix snorted, rolling her eyes. "So says the Roman Christian church. I know the teachings. Nothing but ramblings from arrogant hypocrites."
"Pray lady, why are you so hostile to me? Have I wronged you in the past?" Arthur asked, crossing his arms and squaring his shoulders, glaring down at her.
"You are Roman and a man, that is sin enough," she spat back at him.
"And you are to hold your tongue!" Jasmine's voice cut the air, causing Beatrix to whirl and find the other Priestess stalking towards her, Mariska's tiger at her side. "Especially when speaking to the King of Britain." She stopped before the other woman, glaring at her with her unnerving eyes.
"Do not expect me to treat him like a God just because he warms your bed…"
"I expect you to treat him with the respect he earned the day he gained this temple's support!" Jasmine cut her off, leaning forward, her voice dropping dangerously low. "You know the words as well as I, "As the Gods above bless this supreme honor so do the priestesses of Avalon. And so shall it be protected by our magic and by our lives it shall be upheld. Mariska made that vow for the whole temple Beatrix including you. To go against it would mean your death, so please, give me reason."
"You know I would never go against the temple," Beatrix hissed back at her.
"Then get past your prejudice, or do us all the favor and cut out your tongue," Jasmine replied, her gaze unwavering. "Now go and help Bethania with the animals."
Without another word Beatrix turned on her heel, growling as she huffed over towards the stables, leaving Arthur and Jasmine alone.
"I wonder what could fill a woman with so much hate," Arthur mused, watching her go.
With a sigh, Jasmine turned towards him, holding out her hand for him to take, falling gratefully into his open arms, relaxing against his strong chest. "She was raised a Christian in Rome. Her mother was a priestess and her father an angry, hate filled man. When her mother died, her father threw her from his home, turning her onto the streets at twelve. You can only imagine what she had to do just to survive. When the Order finally found her, she rejected us and our faith. Sonia was finally the one to make her see reason and persuade her to come here. But the hate has never left her."
"It must be hard for her, her past," Arthur commented, pulling Jasmine closer.
"All of us have pain in our past. Sometimes I think it comes with the gift of being a priestess. Tis only at Avalon we are safe and it is the Gods way of reminding us of where we belong," she paused and turned her face towards his, smiling as he brushed her hair away from her snowy eyes. "Her pain is no greater nor worse than any of her sisters, and it would do her well to remember that."
"How are you?" Arthur asked, eyeing her closely.
"Well. Was less of a shock to me than the others," Jasmine sighed, leaning her head against his chest. "That still does not ease the pain though. She was mother to us all."
"Is there aught I can do?" he brushed some hair behind her ear, pulling her closer and cradling her against his body
"Nay," she said with a sigh. "Being you is enough." They stood like that for a long while, the sun traveling quickly across the sky while Jasmine wept into his chest.
xoxoxoxoxoxox
Mariska was in fact very proud of herself. She and Tristan made it all the way back to her rooms, and the door was closed firmly before she lost herself to her grief. She looked down at her hands, still stained with blood, and her nightdress, covered in the thick liquid, already starting to turn a sickening shade of brown, and began to tremble.
Walking away from Tristan she started pulling violently at the cloth, her voice growing from a whisper to a near hysterical shout as she yelled for it to be taken off, ripping at the delicate fabric.
Tristan moved forward, ripping the dress easily from her body, throwing it into the flames burning in the hearth and took her head into his hands, trying to calm her as gently as he could.
"My hands, the blood it won't come off," she whimpered, rubbing furiously at her hands. "Why won't it come off?"
He led her over towards the water basin and dipped her hands in it gently, massaging the blood from her skin. As the water began to turn pink she whimpered again, her whole body beginning to tremble once more.
"Look at me," he ordered, locking eyes with her as he continued to wash her hands. After a few minutes, he felt they should be clean and moved his hand, picking up a stray cloth to dry them, never breaking eye contact with her.
"I cannot do it Tristan, it is too much," she whispered, tears in her eyes.
"Yes you can," he answered simply. "I know that you can."
"Not without you," she stated, shaking her head, her voice small.
"You will not be without me," he stated, throwing down the cloth and lifting her easily into his arms, taking her across to the bed, setting her down gently and wrapping her in the bedding, sitting down and leaning forward, his hands on either side of her. "As I have said before."
"No, you must go with Arthur," she shook her head fiercely.
"I will stay with you," he stated, his voice booking now room for argument.
"NO!"
The firmness and desperation of her tone caught him off guard and he looked at her quizzedly for a moment.
"You must stay with Arthur," she stated softer, her hand coming up to trace the tattoos under his eyes. "This…this is merely the calm before the storm. The battles to come, will test us all."
"What battles?"
"The battles for Arthur's land. I meant what I said, he will be a great king, one that is spoken of through the ages. But with greatness comes sacrifice. The other leaders, Saxons, Huns, Rome, all will be jealous of Arthur. They will try to take what is rightfully his, all because he has something they never will."
"Britain?"
"Loyalty! And a dream of peace and coexistence. Wars will be fought throughout the ages for this dream, and it will never be attained. That is Arthur's sacrifice, his dream. Ours will be our love."
"Why?" Tristan looked at her, boring into her with his eyes, a slight hint of confusion in his voice.
"Because, in the Wars to come, Arthur will need strong warriors by his side. He will need you to help guide him through the darkness of the age, just as Avalon will need me, to lead them into the death of our age."
"Have you seen the future?" he asked after a moment, causing her to chuckle softly.
"Nay. Jasmine would be quite angry if I tried to butt in on her specialty. Nay, but your forget my love, the dead can see anything. Past, present and what is to come, and I can speak to the dead."
"And what is to come?"
"The death of magic, as well as the death of chivalry and nobility, and worst of all loyalty. The world that is to come is not one that we are used to. Avalon will fall, and those who still believe the old ways will be hunted down and burned. Arthur's Camelot will crumble, soon after the last of his great knights, and those who huger for nothing more than power and wealth will take over. The world will be a far bloodier place than it already is," she spoke softly, her voice filled with sadness.
"Is there aught that can be done to prevent it?" Tristan asked, shocked that there were horrors worse than those he had already seen to come.
"Nay. Time marches on, and Destiny cannot be changed. If we have learned nothing else this past year we have learned that. All we can do is fight for what is right as long as we are able, and go down trying to preserve it."
"And I must leave your side to do this?" Tristan sounded doubtful. He had long ago given up on truly believing in Destiny. The only true destiny was death, and every time he walked onto a battlefield he had known it could be the day he met her. He could not see how staying with Mariska or going with Arthur to his new post could make much difference.
"Arthur will need you at his side, and Avalon is not the place he needs to be to unify this isle," she answered sadly.
Suddenly a thought came to him. "Sonia spoke to me before you entered Hayley's room tonight. She told me that she believed love could conquer all obstacles, and that she wanted you happy. That I was the only one who could make you so."
"She knew she was to die tonight Tristan, she just wanted you to know that she loved me before she did…" she began to be cut off.
"She wanted me to know that there was a way around this," he stated firmly.
"Tristan," she sighed, leaning further back into the pillows. "Why must you make this harder than it must be? Destiny does not wish us to be together."
"I do not believe that," he answered. "There is a way around it."
"Well if there is I have yet to find it," Mariska yelled, throwing her hands up in defeat, letting them hit the sheets with a gentle thud. "Try as I might, I cannot find it."
"You're not the one who is accustomed to finding lost paths," he answered, a ghost of a smirk on his lips.
"Oh, you think you can lead us out of this mess my arrogant scout?" Mariska raised an eyebrow at him, unable to fight the smirk coming to her lips.
"I do."
He said it with such finality that she almost believed him. Finally she sighed, leaning forward so that their faces were mere inches apart. "Then I could not be in better hands," she said softly, her arms snaking up around his neck as she kissed him deeply, their baby's heartbeat racing with the energy between them.
They broke apart a few moments later, their breathing ragged, as they gazed lovingly into one another's eyes.
"Come to bed with me," Mariska whispered softly, scooting over and pulling down the covers for him. Without a word Tristan rose, pulling off his shirt and climbing into bed next to her, taking her into his arms.
"Do not worry, I will find a way," he promised, kissing her once more, gentler this time, before she drifted off into a fitful slumber, silent tears falling from her closed eyes while he kept a close watch over her.
xoxoxoxoxoxox
It was an hour before sunset that Merlin arrived, his heart heavy as he walked through the front doors of Avalon, meeting his Granddaughter and her lover at the base of the stairs.
"I am glad you have come," Mariska stated, her dark green dress already in place, breaking free from Tristan to wrap her arms about her Grandfathers neck. "Oh Grandfather, she is gone!"
"There there my child," he soothed as she sobbed into his neck, stroking her hair gently, nodding at Tristan. "She is will take her place with the Gods. Tis not a time of mourning but a time of celebration."
"It is hard to celebrate," she replied, as he held her closer.
"I know, but we must be brave, for the temple." She backed away, nodding slowly, raising her head to meet his eyes. "Good girl. Is everything prepared?"
Again she nodded. "We need only bring her to the site."
"Then let us prepare."
An hour later, Mariska and Merlin led the precession into the great temple, where an alter had been set up, six priestess' carrying Sonia's body, wrapped in white linen on a poles resting across their shoulders, each, including Fay, wearing a gown of either red or black. The knights came next in full armor, shinning against the candle lit about the room. Hayley carried Pandora as Zita helped her to the site.
When they got there, nearly a hundred people, men and women stood waiting for them, all dressed in their finest, all waiting solemnly for it to begin. The knights exchanged curious looks before they all fell into place, creating a circle around the alter, while the girls placed Sonia on the top, moving back to join the circle.
While they did this a beautiful woman with long white hair, stripped with black and piercing yellow eyes came to stand next to Tristan, another with snow white hair, her dress completely white, a noble look to her face came to his other side while a third, dressed all in black with piercing black hair and eyes, and dark tattoos, very similar to Tristan's, beneath her eyes came to the woman's other side. He looked at them oddly for a moment, looking over to Galahad who shrugged.
Across the way, a tall man, with long dark brown hair, a well kept mustache and keen eyes came to stand next to Fay, taking her hand in his and kissing it gently. Fay and Gawain looked at him oddly for a moment, Gawain wrapping his arm through hers and pulling her closer as Merlin and Mariska stepped forward, he in black, and she in dark green.
Without a word Zita, Ayo, Jia and Jasmine each took up candles, marking the four corners while Mariska began sweeping and casting the circle about them. She placed the broom back near the alter, biting back the tears as she glimpsed Sonia's body, before picking up the sword lying near the body. It had been Sonia's sword and seemed fitting for such an occasion.
Walking around she began to cast, her voice strong, vibrating through the trees, displaying her grief.
"This is a place which is not a place
in a time which is not a time
halfway between the worlds of the Gods
and of the mortals."
She then turned and took Merlin's hand, pulling him into the circle. Together they did a half-turn as he pulled in the next person, and so on until the whole of the gathering was inside the circle. Then walking over to Ayo, stationed at the West point, she began to call the corners.
"As the sun sets
So our friend has left us
The water of our tears like the salt water of the sea, and
Like the water of our mother's womb, blesses this circle."
Next she walked to Jasmine, stationed at the South.
"As life is a day
so our friend has passed into the night
the fire of our life, the memories and courage, the
strength given to us by our friend blesses this circle."
Then to the East, where Zita.
"As all that falls shall rise again
so our friend will be reborn
the air we breathe, the treasure of our life,
the compassionate caring we give each other blesses this circle."
And finally to Jia at the North.
"As the Earth forms us
so our friend shall return to the earth
Our Mother feeds us, and clothes us.
She gives us everything and in the end she takes our bodies back.
And earth blesses this circle."
She came back to the center of the circle, where her Grandfather stood waiting. He took her hand, looking at her sadly as he spoke:
"You are the Goddess, as all women.
You give birth.
You feed the children from your own body.
And you take them back for a new birth.
World without end, eternal creation."
Taking a deep breath to control the pain welling up inside her heart, she found her babies heartbeat with her left hand and spoke.
"And you are the God, as are all men.
You are born.
You live and you die, only to be born again.
All-Father, All-Destroyer, ruler of the land of the dead."
Together they spoke:
"Birth and death.
Over and over and over."
Next came the difficult part, for Mariska had to speak to Sonia's body. "You are dead. None should ever die alone. I am here to help you with your death."
She took a deep breath before continuing on. "There is only love, the greatest Mystery. I reach behind my fear. I open my heart and my eyes to the light of this love.
"Our lives are formed of many others and we form other lives in turn. And when we are here with you after you die we honor your life.
"There is only love. The love of the Goddess gives birth to the universe. The love of our parents gives birth to us. The love of our friends and family sustains our life. Kindness, love, and pleasure-we are formed from these and we form each other's. When we die, we leave them behind us.
"You have left your family. You have left sex, and even gender. You cannot be a woman or a man and enter the other world. You have left behind your body. None who have bodies can pass into the other world.
"The Goddess is taking you back now, the Great Mother. Her womb is the Earth that will receive your body, your body is a seed now, a seed of our lives.
"In a sacred space we have gathered to honor you and to give you some things to take on the journey with you."
She stepped back with another deep breath, her body trembling while Merlin stepped forward, addressing all those present.
"Please come up now if you can and speak to your dead. Tell her whatever you need to. Help in the journey into death." He then turned to Sonia's corpse.
"I will remember you at Samhain and bless you then."
Together the Priestesses and guests, save the knights, began to chant while each one took their turn, walking up to Sonia, sharing one last private moment with her"
"We all come from the Goddess
and to Her we shall return
like a drop of rain
falling to the ocean.
We all come from the Horned One
and through Him we are reborn
corn and grain, corn and grain
all that falls shall rise again."
After the last person had made their piece with Sonia rejoined the circle, Mariska took a deep breath before speaking once more to Sonia. "Journey on now, sister. We will follow when we can. May you be born again at the same time and in the same place as those you knew and loved in this life. May you know them again and love them again."
Esmeralda and Shireen stepped forward then, finishing their job wrapping the body while Mariska began to release the corners, moving first to East.
"The sun will rise again."
Then South…
"Life continues."
And West…
"Love is all that we can be sure of."
And finally the North…
"Only the mother is eternal."
All the candles were extinguished then save one, sitting on a tall pillar, which Shireen lit as soon as the body was wrapped properly. It was then the Priestesses began ushering the guests out of the circle, the priestesses moving to take up the poles with her body once more.
"The next part of our ceremony is meant to be for her coven," Mariska spoke, her voice laced with tears. "But Sonia insisted that all she loved be there. So if you will all please follow us to the pyre, we will continue our ceremony."
The group walked in silence, the Priestesses carrying candles to the pyre, where once again, circle was cast, and Sonia was placed, the girls holding her body just above the top of the pyre.
The same four took up the corners, and again Mariska went round, calling each in turn, starting with the East, moving clockwise until she ended with the North.
"We welcome the spirits of the ancestors and the honored dead not yet reborn.
"We welcome our heroes and inspiration.
"We welcome the ancestors to incarnate in our children and grandchildren and in our families.
"We welcome our deaths and our lives."
Slowly they lowered her down while Merlin and Mariska blessed the food and wine sitting on the alter set up next to the pyre.
"It is not we that bless this food and drink
but it which blesses us.
In it's nature it nourishes our bodies
And in sharing food and drink
we create community."
Everyone present took a sip of the wine then, pouring some onto the pyre with Sonia. When the last person drank Luminita walked forward with unlit torches, breathing on them they burst into flame before she handed one each to Mariska and Merlin, tears in her eyes.
They walked forward and lit the branches beneath Sonia, the wood catching quickly with the added wine, engulfing her in flames.
They all stood and watched her body burn, her ashes finally falling into the hole beneath the pyre, the grave in which her ashes would slumber, and return nourishment to the earth. It had been Sonia's wish she be burned.
It was then Mariska thanked the corners, dismissing them quietly before turning to the guests, specifically the dark and light one, who had once again taken up next to Tristan, this time the darker closer, winking at him occasionally, a certain familiarity about her.
"She loves you, you know?" the woman with the black stripes in her white hair almost purred into his ear just as Mariska began to speak.
"Let it be known that Sonia is with the Gods. Spread word to every corner of this earth, and let the Gods know that another dines at their table tonight."
"And who shall lead Avalon?" the white woman asked, her eyes gazing intensely into Mariska's.
"I, Mariska, daughter of Angharad, daughter of Merlin, have taken my place as Avalon's High Priestess," she stated.
"You leave him then!" the black woman almost screeched, glaring hard at Mariska, troubling Tristan further.
"I do no such thing Saoirse and you know that," Mariska answered calmly, causing a shocked look to pass over the knights, none sure if they could believe that it was in fact Tristan's hawk standing before them in feminine form. "Now go, you and Vigdis must send word."
At the looks on the knights faces Esmeralda couldn't help but smirk, saying lowly to them all, "Don't tell me you don't believe in magic yet?"
With a scowl on her face and a sad look on Vigdis's they walked backwards into the trees, leaping up together only to appear high above them a moment later, back to their natural form.
"All of you spread the word! A High Priestess is buried, and a new rules in her stead!" Mariska called out. The knights watched as around them, the added guests nodded, turning and running, disappearing into the trees, animal sounds echoing in their wake until only the tall bearded man next to Fay remained.
"I hold to what I said earlier lady, you were born to be Mistress of the Wolves," he all but growled at her, kissing her hand once more before bounding off towards the trees. They all turned just in time to watch him transform midair into the large wolf Uric from earlier, disappearing into the night.
"What is the Mistress of Wolves?" Fay asked, looking confusedly at Gawain who shook his head slowly.
"I don't know but I mean to find out," he growled, staring off after the wolf.
"All will be answered," Jasmine stated quietly. "Now we must be away to the great hall, there is aught else we can do here."
She walked over to Mariska and took her by the arm, and together they led the knights and Priestesses back towards the temple.
Authors Note: Sorry I don't have time to proof this as I really want to get it up for everyone. I'll look over it this weekend when I have more time. Now off to study for my math test tomorrow. Not even technically the first day back and already we have an exam. Hope you all enjoyed this, please read and review and let me know! I know the new system is a pain, but I do try to answer each reviewer, and my reviews have been dwindling sadly as of late. I like to think that it's because no one has time and not because I've lost so many wonderful readers.