the path of enlightment

8/9/2019 The Path of Enlightment

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1

- Randw and Endora rule their kingdom with fairness and

kindness and were loved by their people. They nowhad two sons and three daughters. The nightmare

visions that Endora had been plagued with most of herlife was now a thing of the past. Aubrey had grownmuch in the years since their crowning. He was tall

and strong. His father had taught him to hunt and tofight. His mother taught him to use his gifts and how

to use herbs.

Endora woke from a deep sleep and she was trembling.Her eyes appeared to still be glazed over and she

seemed momentarily unaware of her surroundings.Randw knew that she had just had a vision. He knew

her visions were remarkable accurate and true. Hewaited till she had fully came back from where it was

that she had gone.

Endora, what did you see. Asked Randw.

We must send Aubrey to see Pandoress. It must bedone soon. He must go on a great journey. Endora

said.

Randw simply embraced his wife and held her tight. Heknew how she felt about her children. He knew thatthis would be a difficult thing for her to do, but she

would do it. They rose slowly and dressed and madeit down the stairs. Once downstairs, Endora asked aservant to fetch Aubrey for her and have him meet

her in the library. The servant nodded and set off todo his ladys bidding.


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Yes, I Had vision this morning. It was a powerful vision, onethat woke me from a deep sleep. The vision was about

you my son. I must send you on a journey. I do not knowwhere it will end. I only know the beginning. Endora

said.

Is this some kind of test to prove my manhood, mother,Aubrey asked.

I know not son. I only know it is a matter of greatimportance and great urgency. I must send you off today

to your Great Aunt Pandoresss home. I will see to it thatyou have three days of food with you. You may of course

take Brakus with you. He will be of some company. Iknow from having a fairy travel with me that it could be

quite helpful. Endora said.

I Will do as you ask of me, mother. May I take leave of you

to prepare for my journey. Aubrey asked.

Of course, you must leave within the hour. Endora said.

Aubrey made quick work of gathering his things. He met hismother at the entrance to the cave that glowed. Shegave him a map and the three days of rations. Brakus

was both excited and nervous.

Aubrey traveled two full days and one night. He reached hisgreat aunts door. He knocked on her door. She came

and stood before my. My goodness, Aubrey. You are thespitting image of your father.

How did you know my name? asked Aubrey.


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I Know not where you will travel too, but rather who andwhat you will be searching for. The who I will tell you.She is a princesses and she is in need of you and youare need of her. You will go to her and bring her back

here. He will take you there. You will only be able totravel at night as long as he is with you. He ill onlytake you there. You and she will have to travel backhere together best way you can. This map will help

you. Do not look upon it till you are ready to home.Pandoress said. Time grows short and you must be

off. She turned and closed the door.

Well, I guess that is where my mom gets that from.Aubrey said.

What is that? the dragon asked.

Aubrey slightly startled and spin quickly around grabbingfor his sword. He saw a young dragon. Ok, so youcan speak? asked Aubrey.

Of course I can, all dragons do you know. Do youintended to run me through? said the dragon.

No of course not, you merely started me. Aubrey saidand lowered is hand. OK, easy question. Why are

you doing this for?

Easy question. Your mom saved my life once. Now I amreturning the favor. But, you have yet to answer my

question. The dragon said.

Oh, the comment I made about my mother. Oh, the


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The dragon laughed. Well, Aubrey climb on board andhold on. I will fly you as far as I can till the morning

light. Then we must find shelter till nightfall.

They flew all night and just before dawn broke. Thedragon landed and they found a small cave. The

dragon settled in for the day and waited for the nightto fall once again.

Aubrey spent some time making sure they were trulysafe and gathered food and water for his and his

dragons needs. He finally settled in and slightly dozedoff. He knew not to fall fully asleep as he had to

remain on guard.

-


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2

- Jazmina was a head strong girl. She was extremely

stubborn. Her father had tried everything he knew tohelp correct her behavior. It just was not enough. Her

brothers did their best to keep track of her but alasshe always insisted on doing things her way.

One day her eldest brother approached their father andsaid. Father, something must be done soon to help

control Jazmina.

Something is being done. It is in the works now. Soonshe will no longer be yours or my responsibility. he

said.

What do you mean by that father? he asked.

Her husband is on the way here. He will be here soon.Then they will leave and travel to a new place where

she will one day wear a crown upon her head. hereplied.

The brother nodded and left his father standing there.He went in search of his sister. He found her. She was

donned from head to foot with armor. He shook hishead and walked over to her.

Do you not realize what you are doing? You could getyourself seriously hurt. He said.

Jazmina looked at him and said, It is not as if I will everybe a queen. So what difference does it really make.

Besides the likely hood of my father ever finding me a


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Jazmina preferred to either to practice her sword fightingor tending to the animals. She knew there were lots

of caretakers more than capable, but it was somethingshe would much prefer to herself.

A servant came over and found her in the barnyardplaying with the animals. Your father request your

presence, now your highness.

What its it this time. Jazmina fumed. I swear that oldcote wants to control me. I will have no part in it

Im sorry your highness. But, I was instructed to allowyou to come as a lady or carry you as a child, your

highness. He said.

You would do no such thing. She said. She continued

to rant and fuss. The servant shrugged his shoulders.He walked over to her and picked her up and threwher over his shoulder. He carried her to father. She

was kicking and screaming the whole way there. Herfather heard her coming down the hall. He sat there

and placed his head on his head. The servant came insaid, Where would you like her, Sir?

Just put her down anywhere. he said.

Of course, Sir. The servant did as was asked andturned and walked out of the door locking the both of

them in the room.

How dare you!. exclaimed Jazmina. What is themeaning of all this. She continued on storming about


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Enough! her father said. Sit down or Ill bind yourmouth.

Jazmina stopped and stared at her father and did as shewas ordered. Now the clerics here will be in charge

of you. They will instruct you in the ways of how aqueen is suppose to act and to behave. You will learnwell from them. As soon as your husband arrives andyou and he are joined, you and he travel back to hiskingdom. And there will be no more said about this

period.

Jazmina now found herself being escorted out of herfathers presences and her training as is seemed nowwould begin. She knew it would be extremely difficultto sneak away from these three woman. They wouldknow her every move. She wondered who her father

had chosen to be her husband. What kind of man was

he? Would he wish this change or prefer him to be theway she normally was? So many questions and there

were no answers. Her training to be a queen hadbegun. What did her father mean but that exactly.Surely, there were no more princes that were not

already married at least none that she knew of. Therewas nothing she could do now. She could only waited

till her wedding day. Surely her father would allow hersome time prior to get to know this man to whom she

would be joined to.


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My business is with the king. I have been sent for byhim. Aubrey replied.

The guard called for another guard. He instructed theguard to show the young man to the castle. Aubrey

followed him. The guard showed Aubrey into theforay. Wait her. he said. The guard disappeared

into the castle. He returned with the king. He pointedto the young man and the king walked over to Aubrey.

He sized him up from head to toe. Well, he wouldmost certainly do.

Welcome, my home is your home. So long as youremain here. he said,

Thank you for your gracious welcome, Sire. Aubreysaid.

Now, the guard said that you had been sent for by me?he asked.

I can only tell you what is told to me. I was told to giveyou this. Aubrey extended a box to the king.

The king took the box and opened it. Inside was thesigned marriage contract. All that was needed was

his signature. It would be better if we talked inprivate young man. He escorted the young man tohis den. Sit, please, would you like a small glass of

wine.

Thank you Sire. I would prefer not to drink as I wouldmuch rather be thinking clearly. Aubrey said.


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That is highly commendable. Now the I sent for is sortof a delicate matter. My daughter Jazmina is a difficult

woman at best . It has been arranged that you andher marry. I would prefer this to be done soon. the

king said.

Aubrey knew that with royalty arranged marriages wherecommon place. It was time for him to settle down and

to create an heir for the throne. Im sure, yourhighness, that when you use the term difficult you

are merely being polite. I would like to, if it is ok with

you, observe her unseen until the festival of thefairies. Which I do believe to be in three days. Atwhich time, we can do the hand fasting as well.

Aubrey said.

That would be good and that also would indeed be fair.By the way, what is your name? he asked. Even

though he all ready knew it by the reading of thecontract. The king was merely testing him.

It is Aubrey. Aubrey replied.

The king called out to one of the guards. Take Aubrey

and point out Jazmina to Him. Remain unseen. Theyboth stood and shook hands. We will talk the daybefore the festival to see where we stand. They both

agreed.

The guard escorted Aubrey to where the clerics weretrying to teach Jazmina to act more like a lady. He hid

in the shadows and watched. One of the clericslooked in his direction, he nodded his head and

acknowledged that he knew.


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At dinner when asked to sit at the kings table, Aubreyreplied it would not be proper at this time. But he did

wish to sit where he could observe Jazmina. He watchedas she tried to eat like a proper lady. He was sort of

laughing in side. It seemed to him that this was highlyunnatural for her and she was having a difficult time withit. He saw the king and the king saw him and both men

acknowledged each other by mere looks alone. Hecontinued to observe Jazmina through the course of thedinner. She became thoroughly discussed and walked

away from the table.

Aubrey went up to the king asked to be shown is quarters.The king called one of his guards. The guard walked himto his quarters. A servant came in and asked if there wasanything he could do to help. Aubrey told him, Just drawme a bath and wait till I am in it, then take the clothes I

am wearing and have them laundered if it is not too muchto ask.

No, Sire. It is not too much to ask. You are a honored guesthere and it is my duty to serve you as long as you remain

here. he said.

After the servant had gone, Aubrey bathed, dried himself andredressed in fresh clothes. Then crawled into bed and

slept.


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4

The next morning he rose early. And wondered towardsthe woods. Something was pulling him that way andhe did not know what as of yet. He saw her the. She

was clad in armor and practicing her long bow. Hefound a spot unobserved and watched her. He found

her to be quite good at it and seemed so natural doingit. He sensed one of the clerics approaching him. Imean her no harm. I am merely observing her. Sheseems much more comfortable like this than she did

yesterday. he said.

The cleric was momentarily taken aback by this but sherecovered quickly. Are you to be her husband then?

she asked.

Upon The Feast of the Fairies. I have chosen to make nocontact with my intended, but rather to observe her.

Aubrey said.

What good will that do, Sire? asked the cleric.

Because, this way I can see her true nature. If I was tocourt her, she try to please me or try to make me not

liker her depending upon her mood. Aubrey replied.

The cleric laughed softly. She already knew which one itwould have been. She began moving over to Jazmina

to let her know that she knew she had somehowmanaged to sneak away.

Aubrey spent the rest of the day and the next watchingJazmina. He went to see the king as promised the day


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Your highness, I believe your daughter to be of goodstock. She is strong and healthy and should be ableto provide a strong heir for the throne. Aubrey said.

I would have to agree on all of those points, but it doesmake me think you are referring to cattle though.

the king said.

I speak in terms of what I know. She, of course, isheadstrong, stubborn and quite spirited. Aubrey

said.

Well, I can not disagree with any of that. the king said.

We will have quite a journey ahead of us to reach myhome. Her ne home. I have an idea, Sire. If, ofcourse, you are willing to listen. Aubrey said.

I will listen to anything. the king said. I am at my witsends to tame the wildness in this one.

Well, she is your only daughter. She has four brother,but no sister. Her mother passed when she was verylittle. So, she has had no female input upon her life

per say. So, she is trying to find her way into yourhear, but unfortunately doing it the wrong way.

Aubrey said.

Her mother did die when she was born. I believe youare right though and I have to be willing to take that

blame. But, I hope you can change all of that. theking said.


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I will try my best, Sire. What I was thinking was leavingimmediately after the ceremony and heading outimmediately. Aubrey said. She wants to be a

warrior, and she wants to be like her brothers so shegain your approval. So she and I will travel as

warriors without the comforts or luxuries. I will giveyou a location and you can deliver her possessionsthere. They will be taken to me home by a different

means. I will give the cleric a list of stuff that she willbe allowed to bring with her and she can pack her

pack for her. Aubrey said.

Interesting. said the king. That is certainly a tack Iwould not have thought of. The king agreed to thismethod of dealing with his daughter.

Aubrey set to paper a list and handed it to the cleric. Thecleric read the list and folded it and placed it in her

robe. That list is indeed the bare essentials, my lord.Are you sure you have not forgotten anything, Sire.

Yes, I realize that. I based the amount and weight ofthat list. You see she will have to carry that pack. So

she has to be able to actually lift it. Aubrey said.

The cleric laughed and they adjoined for the evening totheir bed chambers.

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5

Aubrey went out of the village a couple of hours beforedawn the next day. He called the dragon. He came toAubrey and Aubrey asked him if he would mind doing

what Aubrey had suggested to the king. The dragonlaughed at the suggestion but he agreed nonetheless.

Aubrey returned to the palace and began hispreparations for the festival. He even laid out his

traveling clothes for later and made sure everythingexcept those items were placed back into his back.

He bathed and groomed himself.

Jazmina woke and she was in a fitful mood. She beganyelling and screaming at her handmaid, the clerics,and anyone else who would dare to cross her path.She demanded to see her groom and was informedthat she would see him soon enough. When they

were standing before the shaman.

The appointed hour came. Aubrey stood next to theshaman as Jazmina walked down the aisle. She sawher father pen his name and sealed the contract.

Then he handed it to the shaman. She now stoodnext to the man who would soon be her husband. A

man she knew nothing about. The ceremony went byin a blur. It came to the part were he was suppose tokiss her. He merely gave her a slight brushing of his

lips to hers. He turned and said something to thecleric.

Aubrey took his leave of her then and went and changedinto his traveling clothes and doubled checked tomake sure that he had gotten everything. He set off


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Aubrey walked over to her and said, Im afraid you willnot be traveling with us. If, my lady, is in need of yourservices. I will send for you. But, right now, my lady,is in need of her pack. So, if you would please kindly

give it to her. Aubrey said.

The handmaid removed the pack and handed it toJazmina and kind of smirked and said, As you say, my

lord. She turned and started out.

Aubrey turned and started out of the door. We have along way to travel. So we must be off.

Jazmina found she had no choice. She stormed out of thecastle and had to nearly run to catch up to Aubrey.

She walked behind him the whole time complaining.Aubrey would look back every once in awhile . He

stopped and pulled out the map. He saw the best waywas to cross the field and enter the woods. Theywould find shelter there.

They got to the field and started walking across it andthe entered the woods. He spotted the cave he and

the dragon had slept in. Wait here, set camp up and

Ill be back with dinner. Aubrey said.

Aubrey disappeared into the woods with her staring afterhim. Of course, he left poor Brakus there with her. Hehoped he would not be too badly hurt by the time hefound food. He returned with dinner and found shehad done nothing in his absence. He made a quick

fire and cleaned his kill and placed it upon the fire.Then he went and set up his bed roll within the cave.When dinner was ready. He served it and ate dinner.


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6

Aubrey woke the next morning just before dawn. Hemade a fire and started breakfast. He rolled his bed

up and place all of his stuff into his pack. Brakus flew

over to Aubrey and said, Do we have to wake her.and he point at Jazmina.

Yes, unfortunately we do. We must be off soon and sheis now my wife. I can not just leave her behind.

Aubrey said.

Brakus, being the little imp that he was, flew off andcollected some very cold water from the stream

nearby. And before Aubrey could stop him, dumped iton too Jazminas head. Aubrey could not help himself.

He started to laugh.

Jazmina woke up with a start and started yelling atBrakus. This just cause Aubrey to laugh harder. Thenshe tried to catch him, but he was to quick for her.

This made Aubrey laugh even more. She thenstormed over in front of him. So, you think it is funnywhat that, that thing did to me. What ever that thing

is. demanded Jazmina.

Well, Brakus is after all an imp or an elf actually. He justcould not help himself. Breakfast is ready. Eat andcollect your pack, my lady. We need to get started

soon. Aubrey said.

She stood there and continued to rant and rave. Aubrey

pulled out the map and studied it. He saw that todaythey would have to go through his fathers former

village and then to his grandfathers grave. He knew


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and plotting the course for the day, he rolled it up andplace it into his pack. He rose and put out the fire.Its time to go. and he started towards the woods

that his father and mother had lived in for many

years. He saw that she as still just standing there. Ifyou wish not to get lost, you best grab your pack and

come now. I can not wait all day for you. Aubreysaid.

It dawned upon Jazmina that he meant what he said. Shegrabbed her things and shoved them into her pack

and raced to catch up to him. He moved cautiouscarefully through the thick brush. His ears and eyes

were watchful. Several times he had to turn and placehis finger upon his lip and glare at Jazmina. Theyemerged into a clearing and he saw his fathers

village. It was completely devastated.

He entered the village and carefully walked through allthe debris left behind. He made it to the castle that

had once been his grandfathers. It took had sufferedgreatly in the war and bore upon the markings of war.He knew his father had searched for something that

had been here before the war and was very special tothe family. He never did find it. Aubrey began

searching the castle. Deep within the castle he foundthe spot his grandfather had actually hid the prized

possession. Aubrey gently removed the piece of clothwedged in the wall. Aubrey gently unrolled and stared

at the object with great reverence and awe. He hadfound the sacred jeweled scepter of his family. He

clasped it to his chest and felt its power.

Oh gee, so we spent all this time looking for jeweledtrinket. snapped Jazmina.


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This is my familys castle or whats left of it. And this isno jeweled trinket. This is a treasure my family hasowned since the beginning of time. It is very sacredamong my people, and it was lost after this occurred

to my people. I do not wish to spend any more timehere than is needed. But, I only wish to pay my familyhomage. If, that is alright with you, my lady. Aubreygrowled. With that he brushed past Jazmina nearly

knocked her over and stormed out of the castle.

Jazmina was momentarily horrified at the anger in his

voice. But, she found herself having to rush to catchup to him. She caught up to him on top of a hill

overlooking the village. He was kneeling in front of aheadstone. The headstone and been crudely chiseledas if by a child. I am sorry, my lord. I did not know

that this was at one time your familys village. But, ifthis truly is your familys castle and village. Then

where does your father rule from now? Jazminaasked humbly.

He and my mother rule from the sacred circle. I too amsorry, my lady. You truly did not know and I should

have not snapped at you. Being here is real difficult.Aubrey said.

Then he turned and moved slowly off. Jazmina followedquietly this time. They reached an old cottage that

had long since been abandoned. Aubrey went insideand looked around. He gathered a few things from

inside. Then he was off again.

They moved slowly through the forest in completesilence. They continued till they arrived at a ledge.


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When he was sure the way forward was safe, he rushedforward and crossed the clearing and Jazmina was

close behind. Once again they found themselves backin the woods. They made their way through the

woods and he found his mothers old cottage. Theywent inside. This cottage had only the furniture

remaining in it. It was neat and orderly unlike theother cottage they had been in. He placed his pack

on the table and he set off to find food.

He returned and found she had made a fire in thefireplaces and had set up the two bed rolls. She took

his kill and set about cleaning it and placed it uponthe fire. He sat down and read the map. There was anotation upon the map. It read; The way forward

changes with each journey. The way before will not bethe same way for the next. Only the place you wish to

reach will be the same.

Oh great, that is just lovely. Aubrey said. His mother

had told him of her journey to the sacred circlesomehow he thought it would be the same for him.

What is the matter, my lord? Jazmina asked.

Nothing, my lady. I was speaking out loud to myself.Aubrey said.

May I ask your name, my lord. It just seems so formaland impersonal to me to call you, my lord, all the

time. You are after all my husband. I, of course, mustdo as you ask. If you prefer me to address you as, my

lord, then I will do so. Jazmina said.

Aubrey looked at Jazmina and king of chuckled. He couldsee, at least temporarily, some of her softer sides.Of course, my lady. It is Aubrey.


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Like the name upon the headstone? asked Jazmina.

He was my grandfather. Aubrey said.

Jazmina served dinner and sat down and attempted toenjoy dinner. Aubrey thought to himself, Either hewas going to have to teach her to cook or cook the

food himself. He knew waiting until he arrived at hishome for his mother to teach her to do would not

work. They cleared the dinners plates and crawledinto bed.

-


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7

They left the little cottage as they had found it. Theymade their way to the plateau. Aubrey took a deepbreath. He recalled what his mom had told him. She

said that there were three huge rock faces. The fourthside of the north side was open. The west wall wouldhave the keystone. He walked over to the wall anduncovered the keystone. The image upon it was notthe same as his medallion, which he knew to be thekey. He then walked to the south wall and found the

keystone. He uncovered it and found this one did

match his medallion. He placed it into the keystoneand watched the mountain slide open. Once the

mountain was fully opened. He made sure Brakus andJazmina where inside the opening. He placed his pack

down upon the ground. He went back out andgrabbed the medallion and rushed back into the cave.

He ran smack into Jazmina. He had to catch her

before she fell. He was kind of enjoying this. But, heknew now was not the time to indulge, they had to getback to the Sacred Circle.

Aubrey light a torch and looked around. He found thetunnel. They moved slowly through the maze of

winding and twisting tunnels. They finally emerged

into a vast marsh. The sun was getting low in the sky.They needed to find some kind of shelter for the night.

They looked around and did not see anything suitable forshelter for the night. Aubrey was going to suggest

they spend it in the cave they had just left. When he

looked back the cave opening was gone. They had nochoice but move forward. Aubrey slowly beganwalking through the swamp. Using a stick to find any


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They barely had time to light the fire before the sun hadset. They went through their packs and found some

food and sat about having dinner. They both changedout of their wet clothes and redressed. They laid their

clothes close to the fire in order for them to dry. Theycrawled into their beds and tried to sleep.

-


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8

Aubrey woke the next morning and walked around thecottage. One side was a huge mountain. One side

was the swamp. The other sides had thick woods. He

looked at the map and realized they would be havingto climb the mountain today.

He went back into the cabin and gathered his pack.Jazmina had already managed to gather hers

together. She knew that he would not wait for her todo so. They started following the map. The trail

started out winding the mountain and slowly movingup.

The reached the end of the trail and found themselvesscaling the mountain. The had to find footholds and

handholds. The mountain itself seemed to not want tobe climbed. Stones would roll down from the

mountain. They pushed on and up the mountain,finally managing to beat the mountain and reach the

top.

They now stood on a thin ridge. According to the mapthey would have to walk the ridge before reaching thespot where they could start down the mountain. Thesun was high in the sky and beat down upon them as

they walked the ridge. They finally reached thesummit of the ridge. They found no real place to

spend the night.

Aubrey consulted the map and found the way down.

They had to scale the face of the mountain. As theywent down once again the mountain did not wishthem to do this. It cast more and more stones down


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They finally found themselves at the base of themountain. Finding shelter for the night was now

paramount. Aubrey consulted the map. They wouldhave to cross this huge thicket of bramble and spiny

treas. Aubrey could not find anything suitable forshelter. They made their way through the dense

thorny patch.

The bramble and spiny trees seemed to scratch and clawat the couple as they fought their way across. Theyreach the of the bramble patch. They spotted a tree

with a ladder on it. They climbed up together andfound themselves on a wooden platform.

There was no way to start a fire here. Brakus providedonly minimal light. They had to eat what little foodthey still had. Tomorrow they would have to try andfind some food. They crawled into their bed rolls and

tried to sleep.


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9

The next morning they woke. They both were cold, tiredand hungry. Aubrey pulled the map out. He foundthey were in the middle of a bramble patch. They

would have to start their day off like it had ended theday before.

They gathered their packs and set back off through thebramble patch. They had less trouble this time. It

was because there was more light and they were ableto avoid the worse parts. They made it through the

bramble and found themselves in a clearing with araging river in front of them. Aubrey looked at the

river and consulted the map. The map said that theywould have to cross the river and then climb another

mountain.

Aubrey turned to Jazmina. She looked like she was astired and weak from lack of food as he was. He lookedback to the river. He noticed there was a spot wherethe water was not so swift and sheltered by trees andboulders. Jazmina, why dont you go over there and

bathe yourself. Ill go over there and try to catchsome fish. Then we can prepare an early meal before

continuing.

Jazmina looked at Aubrey as if he had lost his mind. Shehad not ever known him to call her by her name,

much less knew her name. My lord, as you wish. Icould prepare the meal while you too bathe. she

said.

Then it is decided, my lady. Aubrey turned and headedin the direction he had indicated and set about trying


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Jazmina headed to the pool of water. She got in andbathed herself quickly as she knew not who or whatwas in the woods. As she was dressing, she noticed

several shellfish in the pond. She collected a few. Just

in case Aubrey had not had any success. She foundAubrey had managed to catch two fish. She showed

her catch to him.

Well, between the fish and those shellfish we will indeedhave us a good lunch. Aubrey said. He came overand kissed her on top of her head. She smelled of

lavender and he felt a stirring in his heart. He movedover to the pond and bathed himself.

He returned to where Jazmina was preparing the lunch.They enjoyed a hearty meal. They gathered up their

stuff and cleared away the remnants of the meal.Then they started across the bridge. They found

themselves on the other side. They now fondthemselves on a path with huge stones faces on either

side. The rocks were very slippery and jagged.

They finally made it to the end of the path and foundthemselves on top of a plateau. It overlooked a hugewaterfall. There was a bridge crossing it. There was

no place here to make camp for the night. They bothagreed to look for camp after crossing over the falls.

This bridge was by far the worst one they had crossedyet. They would step on a board and find it breakingonce they applied some of their weight upon it. They

barely made it to the other side when the bridgecrashed into the falls.

They both stared at it as it fell into the falls and watched


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This one seemed to be doing down. The rocks wereslippery and even more jagged. They were almost tothe bottom when Aubrey tripped and tumbled the rest

of the way to the bottom of the trail.

Jazmina rushed over to Aubrey and found that he wasunconscious and hurt really bad. She looked aroundand found an old cottage. She entered the cottageand found no sign of anyone living there. She placeher pack upon the floor. She rushed back to Aubreyand grabbed him and dragged him to the cottage. It

took nearly all of her strength. She cleaned anddressed his wounds. She found no real medicine

among either pack. You, I do not know you name andI know you do not like me much, imp. I need your

help.

Brakus appeared to be insulted. He threw his chest out

and crossed his arms. I am Brakus and I am no imp.I am a fairy.

Fairy, imp I know not the difference, but I do need youhelp Brakus now. Or should I saw Aubrey needs your

help. Jazmina said.

Brakus looked into Jazminas eyes and saw her soul. Heknew then and there what she needed and that herintentions where pure. Fine, I will help you locate

what you need. Better yet, I will go and get the itemsyou require. Stay with Aubrey. He will need you now.

I know not how you know, but thank you. Maybe oneday you will tell me. Jazmina said.


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Jazmina looked around the cottage and saw a fireplace.She inspected it and found it to be sufficient. She

made a fire. Then she found straw and other materialand made a bed close, but not close enough to catch

in on fire.

She went over to Aubrey and found him wearing fullarmor. Well no wonder, my lord that you were so

heavy. She gently removed his armor. She draggedhim over to the bed and laid him upon it gently. In thelight of the fire, his injuries looked much worse. She

saw a small twig sticking out of his side. There wasblood all around it. She unsheathed her knife and cuthis tunic off. She knew she would have to remove it

and to seal the wound. He stirred slightly andmoaned. She placed her knife into the fire. She

wrapped some of his tunic around the twig and placedher other hand upon his stomach at the base of the

twig. She pulled it quickly and slowly out of his side.She grabbed the knife out of the fire and placed itupon the wound to stop the bleeding and seal the

wound.

Aubrey let out a scream of sheer pain. Jazmina felt hiswhole body tense up. She knew she had caused the

pain. She could not help herself the tears began toflow down her face. I am so sorry, my lord. It was

necessary. I had to close the wound quickly.

Brakus returned with what Jazmina needed. What theheck are you doing to him. he hissed.

its ok, Brakus. Jazmina did what she had to do.Aubrey said weakly. He brushed her face with his


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Will he be ok. Brakus asked concerned.

Only time will tell. Jazmina said. Where you able tofind everything, Brakus?

All except aloe, Jazmina. I really do not know what Itlooks like. Brakus said.

Well, its a plant that grows close to the ground and ithas several spikes growing out of the center it with

spines on it. Jazmina said.

O, ok I saw something like that. Ill be right back.Brakus fell out and in no time. He had returned with

it.

Jazmina made the salve and rubbed it into his wounds.She made a broth for the nights dinner. She madehim drink some of it. He was running a slight fever.The night had set up and was turning chilly. She

grabbed her bed roll and cuddled up next to him andplaced her head upon his chest and fell asleep.


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10

The next morning Aubrey woke up. He found Jazminacuddled up next to him. Her still could smell the

lavender in her hair. He moved slowly so he would not

wake her. He checked his dressings and found thatshe had done them properly. He also noticed that he

was only clad in his breeches. She had removedeverything else.

He found his pack and he noticed that she had gonethrough it. Everything was still there. He found a

clean shirt and put it on. He was very stiff and soar.He then changed his breeches and tried to put hisarmor back on. You should really take today and

rest. But, I see that you are not going to be willing todo that. So, my lord, you will not at least allow me tohelp you. Jazmina said and rose and stood behind

him.

I did not mean to wake you, my lady. We just can notafford to waste a day due do to my own stupidity.

Aubrey said.

Jazmina gathered everything together. Aubrey consultedhis map and surveyed where they were. He saw thatthey were at the edge of a large field. There was amountain at the end of the field, but they seemed agreat distance away. They would have another long

day ahead.

They started across the fields. There were signs of life

everywhere, but no actual spotting of any. It seemedevery step Aubrey took was like a knife stabbing himover and over again. He did not want to show any


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Jazmina knew he was in extreme pain. She sensed andfelt it. She knew if she said anything to him, he would

either deny it or tell her to mind her own business.She watched him all day. She felt her heartstrings

being pulled more and more.

They reached a small babbling brook running across thefield. She noticed a large boulder next to the brook.She saw an opportunity to help him that would not

make him look weak. Aubrey, why dont we sit uponthat boulder over there for just a bit. You could check

the map and make sure we are still walking in theright direction. Besides I could us a drink of water.

Jazmina said.

That would not be a bad idea. Aubrey said. He ambledover to the boulder and sat down upon it and removed

his pack. He was grateful to Jazmina for suggesting

this. He now knew that she knew of his pain. Heremoved the map and took the pretense of reading it.

He already knew that they would have to finishcrossing the field, and the somehow walk around, gothrough or go over the mountain. He knew there wasstill a ways to go. He stood and shouldered his pack.Then he went over and gently kissed Jazmina on the

lips. We should try to cross this plain before nightfallas I have yet to figure out how to deal with the next

mountain ahead of us.

I think that will be for the best. Jazmina said.

They continued across the field. They were close to theedge of the field. Jazmina spotted a small boar. Shepaused and slowly lowered her long bow. She place


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And true. It found its mark. The boar fell to the earth.Jazmina rushed over to the boar. She knelt beside itand drew her blade. She made swift work of ending

its life. She said a blessing over it.

Aubrey stood there while she drew her bow and watchedher release the arrow. He watched as she raced

across the field. He rushed after her. He found it verydifficult to keep up with her. He arrived to see the

blood dripping from her blade and her blessing a smallboar. He fell upon his knees and tried to catch his

breath. Then he fell over and passed out.

Jazmina turned and saw him collapse upon the ground.You did not have to rush over her after me Aubrey.

You are a real stubborn man, my lord. Jazmina said.She heard Brakus snicker from behind her.

She knew he would be alright for a few minutes,anyways. She turned to Brakus. Brakus, could you

find a safe place for us to spend the night. I am goingto string this boar over that tree so I can dress him.

Brakus nodded and flew off.

Jazmina dragged the boar over to the tree and strung itup and dressed it. The she went over and draggedAubrey over close to the tree. Brakus returned and

said, There is a cave just over there. he said.

Show me, Brakus. Jazmina said. Brakus showed himthe cave he had found. She looked the cave over and

determined it would be appropriate for the night. Sheplace her pack inside the cave. She then built a fire

pit and started a fire. She went back and dragged the


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managed to half rouse Aubrey and helped him over tothe cave. By the time the boar was cooked the sun

had set. Aubrey woke to find himself in a cave and aroaring fire. He roused himself. He found she had

undressed him again and redressed his wounds. Sheheard him stirring within the cave. She rose and

brought some of the boar that she had killed to him.Here, my lord. Try and eat a little it will help

strengthen you. Jazmina said.

Thank you, Jazmina. I think I would prefer it if you would

call me Aubrey. I kind of like it when you do. Aubreysaid.

Of course, my lord. I mean Aubrey, if that is what youwish. Jazmina said.

They ate there meal and crawled into bed and tried tosleep.


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11

They woke the next morning and divided the remains ofthe boar between them. They both knew that it wouldbe two or three days of meat for them. So neither of

them would have to hunt for meat. Aubrey wasfeeling stronger today. He went and walked over tothe mountain and located the trail leading up the

mountain.

They set out upon the trail The trail went up graduallyand around the mountain. At the end of the trail theyfound a cave entrance. Aubrey looked at the map and

found that they would have to negotiate a series oftrails.

The moved slowly through the caravan. They foundthemselves having to negotiate stalagmites and

stalactites. The trail lead downwards deeper into thecave. They emerged in a large cavern that seemed to

be lit up. There was a waterfall that was brilliantlycolored. They were amazed with its beauty.

They had to keep moving and they both knew it. Theycleared the large cavern and found themselves

moving along rocky paths again. They caught sight ofa light coming from an opening in the cave. They

rushed towards the light. Well, I guess we spend the

night here in the cave. Jazmina said as she noticedthe sun was beginning to fade.

No. Aubrey said. We will spend it in a real bed.

What in the world are you talking about? Jazminaasked.

He grabbed her hand and rushed into the grove of trees.They emerged into a small clearing and saw a house


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Pandoress opened the door and saw who it was. Sherushed out and hugged Aubrey tight. Aubrey wincedin pain. What in the world did you do to yourself.

she asked.

My own stupidity. I am all right though, Auntie. Aubreysaid.

Aunt? Jazmina asked.

Im sorry, Jazmina. I forgot to introduce myself to you. Iam Pandoress. I am an elf shaman and have been

place here to guide those of you to the Sacred Circleor to guide those who depart the Sacred Circle to goforth to be tested. I am his grandmothers sister.

Pandoress said. Come inside and I will prepare a mealfor the two of you, and sleeping arrangements for you

two. Perhaps, if my nephew is not to sore, he can dohis duty by you, Jazmina. Pandoress said.

Jazmina blushed brightly. There has been no time forthat. Perhaps, when our journey is over there will be

more time. Jazmina said.

Pandoress looked at her nephew and glared at him. Iwill speak to him in private as to his behavior. Sheshowed them both inside. She showed Jazmina to a

bath and instructed her to bathe. She told her tomake sure she dressed in the garment laid out for her.She then returned to the kitchen and prepared dinnerfor the three of them. She prepared dinner for the

three of them. She gave her nephew an heartfeltchewing out. Aubrey had no choice but to listen.


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When she was finished, Aubrey told her everything.Pandoress listened intently to his story. When he was

finished, she broke out in a fight of laughter.

Jazmina emerged from the bath. She was wearing a formfitting, full length gown that showed all of her naturalfeatures. Aubrey excused himself and went to takehis bath. He undressed and slide into the bathingpool. He was extremely soar and stiff. He found it

difficult to reach all the places he needed to. Jazminawalked into the room. Your wounds are not quite

healed yet. I know you will need help cleansing them

and help redressing them. I will not take no for ananswer. Jazmina said.

She sat on the edge of the pool. She began cleaning theareas he could not get to. Her closeness and simpletouches were driving him mad. He reached up andpulled her into the pool with him. Before she could

speak, he kissed her passionately. Then he began to

undress her. Then he made her his wife right thenand there.

They redressed and went to dinner and the crawled intobed.


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12

They woke the next morning and said their goodbyes toPandoress. They made their way through the tiny

grove of trees that skirted the vast field. They began

making their way through the field of grass. Brakusflew above and slightly in front of the couple. He was

looking for the river they knew they would have tocross. It was just before dusk before the reached theriver. Aubrey knew that they would have to cross thebridge to find the cave that he had already spent onenight in. They proceed to the bridge and crossed it.

They found the cave and began making camp for thenight. They removed the remains from the boar that

Jazmina had killed and enjoyed their meal and crawledinto bed.

They woke the next morning they followed the windingmountain path to the top of the ridge. Aubrey knew

there was no longer a need for a map. He alreadyknew the way forward. Jazmina spotted the tree.Wow, that tree looks like it could have been here

since the beginning of time.

It has been. said Aubrey. And that is where we areheaded.

Jazmina looked at him with sheer amazement in hereyes. She could not believe that this tree would now

be her home. Aubrey found the way down. Theyfollowed the path down until they found the base of

the mountain. They walked slowly across yet anothermarsh and through another grove of trees and where

face to face with another mountain. Then they wereon another winding mountain trail. They reached thesecond rid e. azmina notice that the tree a eared


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open the way forward. They stood in front of the doorthat Aubrey knew would lead them to the Sacred

Circle. He drew her into his arms and kissed her therein front of the door. Both of their medallions merged

with the mountain and disappeared into the face of if.The mountain face slide open. They walked through

the mountain and found themselves in the glowingcave. The walked slowly through the cave. Aubrey

wanted Jazmina to see the whole cave. He had seen itmany times growing up. The slowly emerged into thefading dusk into the field that surrounded the Sacred

Circle.

Aubrey notice that everything was too quiet. Aubreysensed something was wrong. He grabbed Jazminaand rushed into the tree. Once inside Aubrey found

one of the servants. Where is everyone? he askedhim.

They are in War Council, my Lord. replied the servant.

Take my Lady and see her to her chambers. he turnedto Jazmina. I must go see what is up and then I will

find you.

I understand, my Lord. Jazmina replied.

The servant nodded to Aubrey and escorted Jazmina toher quarters. Once inside the servant said. If you

should need anything, please let me know.

I shall call upon you, should I need you. Right now Idesire a bath and a change of clothes. Jazmina said.


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I shall draw you a bath before I take my leave, my lady.the servant said. He drew her bath. Your bath is

ready, my lady. I will take my leave now. He bowedand left the room and closed the door.

Jazmina looked around her bed chambers and found thatAubrey had all her possessions brought here ahead of

her. She began crying. She now knew the wholereason behind why he had insisted upon her bringingwhat she had been allowed with her. He choice to act

as a warrior to curry favor with her father. He hadmade her travel as one, but he made sure she had all

she would need to be his queen. All waiting for herwhen and if she chose to be. She chose onappropriate article of clothing and slipped into the

bath.

Meanwhile, Aubrey rushed through the tree and locatedthe War Council. He entered the chamber and saw all

the male elves gathered in the large room. He saw

his father stand up and declare, I will go.

Aubrey without any clue as to what was going on said,Father, you are getting up there in age. If someonefrom this family must go, then I shall. I have a wifeand more than likely she now carries the heir to the

throne even as we speak. If something should happento me, at least I have a brother who can marry her to

carry on the tradition.

Randw turned towards his son and said, This is not tobe your test be rather that of your brother Aillel. I

merely volunteered to see him to the place where hisjourney was to begin along with a few men to ensure

he safely arrives there.

Randw told about the lost elf clan. They were trappedand under seize. They were mostly holding their own,


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to come here. They were few and those set up againstthem were many. Randw had to send a small armyjust to pass through their lines to insert Aillel in a

position so he could rescue them.

Aubrey listened to his father carefully. When his fatherhad finished, Aubrey removed his pack and set it

down. He removed the scepter of his grandfather stillwrapped in the cloth. It speaks not to me. But, if itshould speak to Aillel, then it was meant for him. If it

does, then me, my friend and Aillel will be the only

ones needed to go. Aillel will be able to help manymore leave that place and come here with only this.

Aubrey said.

Randw reached out and took the scepter from his son.I thought this scepter was lost for all time. But, youare right Aubrey. He turned around and called Aillel.

Aillel came and stood before his father and olderbrother. Take this Aillel and see if it does indeed

speak to you.

Aillel did as his father asked. He grasped the scepter inhis hands. The scepter glowed brightly. Aillel closedhis eyes and felt the power surging through him. He

knew without being told what he needed to do withthis scepter. He opened his eyes and wrapped thescepter back in the cloth. He looked at his brother.

Aubrey when do you purpose we leave?

We will be able to only travel at night. We will have tosleep in the daytime, should it take more that a

nights ride to reach the place where you need to go.We must rest n ride by the daylight. We can leave as


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Call your dragon, brother. He can land here safely evenin the daylight. We will try to see to his needs as wewill leave as soon as the dusk falls. Tend to your wife

and introduce her to mother. She will need her in your

absence. Aillel said.

They hugged and Aubrey removed a small cloth sackfrom his pack. I do not know if you intended to leavethese behind, father. So I took the liberty of bringing

them along.

Randw opened the sack. Inside was some of hismothers jewelry. Jewelry he had gone back to his

village to give to Endora. The look in their eyes said itall. They hugged and Aubrey went to do as asked. Hewent to the field and called his dragon. He came and

Aubrey explained to him the task that he hadvolunteered them for. The dragon agreed to do it and

he laid down so the metal smiths may take hismeasurements.

Aubrey set off to find Jazmina. He found her in thegarden with his mother. He approached the two

women. Endorastopped him halfway there. Eitherstay there down wind of us or go bathe yourself first.

Aubrey bowed to his mother and excused himself. Hecould here Jazmina laughing at him as he took his

leave. He went and bathed and changed into cleanclothes. He returned and sat with the two women. Hetold them what had been decided at the war council.They both did not want to see him go so soon. But

both woman knew and understood.


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Jazmina assisted her husband into his armor and walkedwith him to the center of the field where a great

dragon clad in solid armor waited for them. Aubreykissed Jazmina passionately, and walked over to the

dragon. Jazmina watched as they took flight and flewoff into the night. Aubrey noticed they were not flying

in the direction of Pandoressshouse, but rather theexact opposite of it. They flew all night and just as

dawn broke the found a cave for the day and crawledinto it.

They had to repeat this for three more days. On thefourth night they found themselves landing in the

middle of a field just at the top of the witching hour.Aubrey knew what was to happen now. He and Aillel

dismounted the dragon. He handed Aillel a map. Donot look upon this map yet. Find your intended and

get her out of harms way. Then look upon the map it

will show you the way home. Aubrey said.

Aillel hugged his brother tight. I will see you soon,brother. Aillel walked toward the fighting. Aubrey

watched till He could no longer see his brother. Thenhe mounted his dragon and they returned the waythey had come. They flew only at night. Sleeping

during the daytime. They arrived at the Sacred circleupon the eighth night of Aubreys departure. Aubrey

dismounted his dragon and began removing hisarmor. Randw came over and grasped his sons

shoulder. He was alive when I left him where I was

the path of enlightment

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