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Sniffing the mountain breeze flowing from the high peaks to the foothills, Ailish, the young Queen Mother of Morvene caught the scent of pine within the cool air signaling the oncoming change of season. She smiled at her granddaughter Elleda, and said, “This is the—”
Before she could say more, everything disappeared. Elleda was gone, the mountains no longer existed, and the tendrils of a long ago yet-unforgotten sensation filled her mind. She barely heard her aoutem Yar, growl as he sensed something happening.
Apologies I offer for this intrusion. There is no choice, came the well-remembered texture of the words running through her head. The Speaker of the Eight’s voice was one she could never mistake or forget, not even thirty years after last feeling the old sorceress’ intrusion into her mind.
What need you with me?
To the Island must you come. This is not an idle calling, nor an easy one for us to make, for a grave danger approaches, one unlike any before. You are summoned to be of service to Nevaeh itself.
And if I refuse?
Then all you love, and all you have done, will perish. Your husband’s death will have been for naught. If you refuse, all the women who follow will never be born. A thousand years have we guided Nevaeh, and it is only the beginning.
The Speaker paused suddenly, then said, You are a woman of great power, Ailish; and understand your obligation to such power you do. You will not refuse.
Why me?
Ignoring the question, The Speaker said, Within seven days must you reach us. Be wary, forces are being marshalled against you. Dark and dangerous they be.
For how long will I be gone?
A strange silence followed her question, a silence unlike any separation between thoughts and words she had ever known; rather, it was an ominous and empty sensation within her head. When The Speaker of the Eight answered her question, Ailish’s heart stopped.
Say your goodbyes to all you love, we foresee not your return.
