Chapter II, Reading 8

Dakra leaned her back against the warm stones of the massive fireplace and rested her cup of tea on her knee.  "Kewero told us that Flindra needed to begin her life here.  She said little more even when Eghero questioned her.  All she would say was that the Spirit had chosen us to care for the Heir of King Meldh."

Flindra and Leudh looked at each other.  Thus prompted, she told Dakra and Brehwan of the evil presence she felt in the crystal and in her dreams.  No one spoke when she was finished with her story.  A worried glance passed between Leudh and Brehwan while Dakra simply closed her eyes.

"It would make sense to hide you with us if there was any evil hunting you," Dakra finally said.  "Maybe that's why Kewero brought you here and why she was so vague with her explanations.  I think it's time for you to try to find her.  She, alone, can tell you about your past and what you need to do for your future.  We can't provide you with any more help, my little one.  It's up to others to take our place."

Flindra dropped her head in mute agreement with her mother.  When she raised her eyes, she looked at her brother - silently seeking his advice.

Leudh understood her silent entreaty.  "It's not clear to me that you're actually in danger.  I'd be willing to guess that the evil you sense is only some strange effect of the crystal.  Even so, it's time for you to go.  You need to consider that winter comes swiftly in the Northern Reaches.  You have a race with winter in trying to reach the old woman."

Dakra shook her head in disagreement.  There was a look of genuine worry on her face.  "No Leudh, I feel in my heart that the evil searching the world for Flindra is quite real.  A mother can sense such things."

Brehwan looked at Flindra.  "It's not only time for you to go, but I think we should be prepared to deny any knowledge of your whereabouts, should anyone ask.  We'll have to tell the twins and swear them into secrecy."

"I feel as if I'm leaving all of you in great danger," moaned Flindra.

Brehwan shook her head and said, "I'm afraid, Flindra, that any danger will follow you.  We're not at risk."

Flindra took a swallow of her tea and looked into the fire.  "Will you help me get ready to leave tomorrow morning?  I don't want to risk your safety any longer than I have to."

"I have almost everything ready," Dakra said as she took Flindra's hand in her own.  "It gave me something to do while you wandered in the forest."

"You should stay in the house and we can get the rest done today," Leudh added.  "If any unfriendly eyes watch this clearing, we can hide the fact that you are leaving."

Flindra sighed.  "It's decided then.  I'll leave before dawn tomorrow."

"That would be wise," her brother agreed.

He stood and Brehwan joined him.  "We'll go outside and see to things," he said.

"All right," Flindra said with a nod.  "Thank you for the help."

Leudh smiled.  "Anytime, little sister."  He and Brehwan walked outside.