Lord Santa's Review

By Sarah Mirza

Ash is a Light Warrior who reports to Santa's grotto after a three-year absence to undertake her review. Expecting to be in disgrace, instead she finds herself totally unprepared for the reception. Her review brings surprises and Ash learns about her own levels of power and connection higher than she had

• Language: English
• Publisher: URLink Print & Media, LLC
• Release date: Sep 18, 2021
• ISBN: 9781647539382

Sarah Mirza

Sarah Mirza was born in 1959 in the UK. After travelling and living abroad she has returned to her beloved Yorkshire and resides in Sheffield. Since her spiritual awakening in 1992, she has continually experienced and learnt about a wide variety of both spiritual and religious readings and philosophies. These inform her worldview.

Book preview

CHAPTER

1

If you look up at the sky it is a deep, deep black and the stars are so bright they appear to be nearer than the billions of miles away they really are. Close enough to touch. On the ground the snow is deep, with a crispy topping that reflects the stars in shimmering sparkles that seem to hypnotise the watcher. Stay a while and watch. This is exactly what Ash has been doing, for how long she does not know, but for some time, as the cold has started to reach her body and has already numbed her feet and legs. Ash reaches out her hand up to the sky and imitates catching a bright star. I might as well catch a star as reach my destination, she says to herself. She is sitting on a fallen log, alone and rather despondent. She does not have the energy or inclination to stand up just at the moment. She is pondering her fate. How long have I been sitting here? I am so tired and my resolve is draining; I should be near Santa’s Grotto but I sense nothing. Surely, I have not come so far to be lost here in the north, so near to comfort and safety? She looks up skywards, waiting for an answer, but none comes. Yes, there is definitely something wrong somewhere. As she twists round slowly to look at the line of pine trees growing around her, she feels a sharp pain in her side. Ouch! The ribs are still cracked. The tiredness makes the pain seem more present and adds to her sense of feeling rather sorry for herself. Her journey is supposed to have brought her to Santa’s Grotto, as it is that time of year and she has been summoned. But for some reason the portals are not opening and she has stopped here to contemplate what has gone wrong.

The snow is deep enough to cover the lower part of the tree trunks, so that the bottom branches rest on the top of the snow, as though they were balancing the whole tree. There is no wind, yet Ash hears a sound. At first it sounds like a faint moan, then she listens harder and realises it is the sound of tree spirits talking. They are all talking at once and she cannot define any particular words. The tiredness and pain have made her irritable.

She shouts, Hey! What are you talking about? I do not understand you, all talking at once. What say you?

There is a sudden hush to the babbling and then one or two voices are whispering and the message is passed down the line of trees. Ash hears it progressing away from her, down the line towards a tree that she notices is higher and bigger than the rest. The top branches begin to rustle and the branches move up and down. Out from the branches, near the top, comes what appears to be brown smoke with just a hint of green around the edges. Ash knows this to be a tree spirit for she has the eye to see. The ‘smoke’ moves up towards her and hovers in front of where Ash is sitting. Then it forms the shape of a young girl, looking like a human of about fourteen times around the sun. Her hair is made of green and flows around behind her like a flag in the wind.

Ash speaks. Who addresses me?

I am Princess Diva of this part of the forest, known in human terms as glade.

Princess?

Yes, I am given responsibility to learn. I am not yet fully of knowledge.

You are addressing a human, Light Warrior Ash, third class.

Ay so. There is silence. The princess is wondering what to say next.

She begins with a formal greeting. Welcome! You are free to walk.

Thank you. But Princess Diva, your tree spirits are all talking at once and appear to be speaking a dialect I am unfamiliar with. Yet there is a complaint, is there not?

Ah, not so! No complaint.

The princess pauses and then begins by speaking carefully and slowly. Diplomacy is required when you are about to explain to a human that they have lost their way. Although this one is a Light Warrior, third class, you cannot be too careful and her inexperience makes her wary.

Well, they are … that is, the spirits under my charge were wondering, er, um… Her voice drifts off, then inspiration suddenly embraces her and she says brightly, The tree spirits, and myself also, were wondering why such an illustrious person should be visiting our side of the forest. Not complaint, but mere curiosity.

Princess Diva looks at Ash with her head and eyes lowered, hoping diplomacy has won and she will not be punished. Ash is studying her closely, trying to decipher the meaning.

She is telling me I am lost.

She asks in a way that repays the diplomacy, Ay so! Pray tell me in what part of the forest do you, and they, think I would be walking?

Relieved at her progress so far, the princess speaks carefully once more.

We think that you would not be here whilst the moon has passed some time in the sky. We are of course grateful for your presence. But … but … perhaps you would be beyond the trees and climbing the mound yonder?

Ash looks in the direction indicated and can see the snow has covered the ground and formed a gradual ascent over the nearby hill. In the distance there is a shadowy grey outline of more hills, possibly even mountains.

Why would I be there? Indeed, if it is so I really am lost. No, not there, but definitely on some other co-ordinates. Her despondency returns. I will be terribly late. I am already in trouble for not having been for three years but to be ordered here and then to miss the most important time of year. This will be very difficult to live down. I will be ridiculed and laughed at for many times round the sun.

The princess is waiting patiently as she does not wish to interrupt her visitor’s thoughts.

Ash thinks back to the time when the messenger came to tell her to return to Santa’s Grotto forthwith and not be late for this year’s ceremony. This year! Of course, THIS year’s ceremony. This year is the fourth year, 2004, the ‘shift’ must have taken place several months ago."

She speaks out loud, Stupid messenger. Why did she not tell me this year was shift year!

She immediately checks her anger. She is as much to blame for not keeping up to date. She remembers the young messenger standing before her, seemingly nervous of the message. Ash had smiled and said, Take your time. It is important that the message is accurate, do not rush yourself.

Now as she remembers she is sure the message was given word for word as instructed. It must have been up to Ash to realise the shift had taken place and to calculate the correct co-ordinates. Well, how stupid can you be? For the first time in what seems like days, she starts to laugh and says out loud, Some warrior I am, making such a basic mistake. I must be losing my touch.

The princess looks at her, puzzled, wondering if she had conducted herself in a way to displease. Ash senses her worry.

Do not worry, Princess, you have helped a poor lost human. I am pleased you have spoken to me. Perhaps I would have perished here so far from the Grotto. You have done well, I am happy to have met you.

Buoyed by this flattery and praise, the princess smiles widely.

You are indeed a noble warrior, I shall tell of your passing for many times around the sun.

I hope, Princess, that you will have the opportunity of addressing more humans to talk about than myself.

I may, but we are not honoured so many times. I am pleased much for your visit.

Thank you.

The princess floats off back to her tree and is absorbed by the branches. With a shrug of her shoulders and a laugh that she cannot help, despite it pinching her ribs, Ash sits and contemplates. Such a basic mistake! Every four years, all of Santa’s Grotto makes a shift in time and space according to the movement of the Earth and the energy grid that surrounds it. It is insurance against firstly being found by ‘ordinary’ humans and secondly, maintains the energy field so that it exists on a dimension other than the third. If they stayed too long, it would become solid and be part of the third dimension and therefore begin to deteriorate as all solid things do. Santa and his helpers would age and all the magic and mystery would perish.

All I have to do is work out the co-ordinates for the Grotto and get moving fast. She thinks hard as she takes out her notebook, calculating the Earth’s energy grids in relation to time and space. Her despondency returns. She feels too tired to try.

She cries out.

That is all I have to do? It is near impossible!

She laughs again with the hopelessness of the situation and the irony. She looks up at the sky.

Well, universe, what is to be done? How shall I proceed? If it is your will then you need to act now so that I can survive and make the ceremony in time. How do you propose to perform such a miracle?

‘Faith’ is the whispered answer that sings in her head. Then this is not my time to leave this physical body? She waits but there is no other reply.

Thank you, universe. I will wait to see what unfolds.

She closes her eyes and concentrates, trying to think positive in what seems really a hopeless situation. She connects with the higher realms and meditates, seeking help and guidance.

A few minutes later she hears a whooshing sound and the jangle of bells. A sleigh crosses the sky about ten metres above her head and descends to land in a clearing about a hundred metres in front of her. She stands slowly and stiffly, her feet and legs not responding properly; she realises how numb the cold has made her. Of all the ways of finding me, I had not thought it would be a sleigh. I am nearer to the Grotto and its current shift than I thought.

She looks upward, I thank you, Great Creator, for my saving.

She wades awkwardly through the snow to meet the sleigh. In the pale light the sleigh and driver look grey. It is a one reindeer sleigh with just enough room for two on the front seat. The rails are buried in the snow, with the front curling upwards above the snowline. A small stocky figure is getting off from the front driving seat. Ash can see that he is wearing a big full length fur coat that smothers him from a collar under his chin to his ankles. Just visible, jutting out from his coat, are big fur boots. Looking at him, you might wonder how he can walk or move about. On his head he wears his hat with a long tail over the back. On the front his badge of office, Ash approaches and recognises him in the gloom.

Greetings, Sergeant Charge of Sleigh.

Greetings. His voice is gruff as indicates his authority.

I am greatly pleased to see you, perhaps there is a place for me on the sleigh?

Indeed, there are no other passengers.

He nods his head to indicate the surrounding area and looks at her as if to say, ‘Who else am I here for in the middle of nowhere?’ He does not say this, of course, out of respect.

May I suggest that we board before the cold makes us trees?

Indeed. Indeed.

Ash needs no second invitation and eagerly climbs onto the front seat and he leaps on beside her with surprising agility. He reaches over the back of the seat and pulls out a large fur rug from the luggage container.

You will need this, we are travelling high and fast.

Before Ash has time to fully get the rug around her shoulders and feet he whips the reins and the single reindeer takes off, running immediately and is in the air after only a few strides. Ash takes hold of the rail as the sleigh turns and speeds through the air, the ground a few hundred metres below.

I am pleased to have collected you, the sergeant says.

Not more than I, I suspect, Ash replies.

Hummph! We have two sleighs out looking for you on this cold night.

Although it may sound like a complaint, Ash knows better than to respond. He is clearly pleased to have her safe in his sleigh. She knows that they would search all night if needs be. She thinks this is service indeed for a warrior, third class. The ceremony must be big this year if they are making so much effort to get everyone there.

Now, they are flying straight and flat and the reindeer picks up speed. Ash looks at her; she is small for her age but seems strong and agile. The sergeant continues, Administrative cock ... he coughs loudly, as though clearing his throat.

Um, administrative blunder, he corrects himself.

Ash is puzzled. How so?

Your young messenger was to have met you within one moon’s cycle but she— he pauses, checking himself. It is not good to complain about those below you in status to those above you.

For whatever reason, she took two moons cycle, in which case the message should have included the new co-ordinates. For the shift, that is, he adds and glances at her sideways, as if to check she had realised this had taken place. She nods knowingly.

Well, of course, another messenger was not sent informing you of said coordinates as it was assumed the first had already done so.

She says nothing, not wishing to explain that in truth it was also her own ‘cockup.’ She was comforted that they were sent to look for her, whoever’s fault it was. She nods. The sergeant in charge is pleased with the nod and satisfied that he is not carrying a complete idiot, but perhaps one who has made a small mistake.

He adds, I suppose warriors have made bigger mistakes. He smiles for the first time and gives her a reassuring wink.

It was the supervisor’s duty to ensure that the messenger was fully apprised of all the facts. She delivered the message as well as she could?

Indeed.

Ash feels no need to dwell any further on the matter. She has been saved and her journey of four days is near to an end. She can trust the Sergeant Charge to get them to their destination. She consciously relaxes, and in no time she cannot help her eyelids closing, her head lolls forward and she drifts into a welcome sleep.

One hour later the sleigh lands in a cul-de-sac. There are ten two-storey detached houses, made of wood painted in different colours. There are lights on in the downstairs rooms that shine rays through the windows and light up the snow. All have wooden verandas on the front, supported by wooden poles, with lanterns hanging down from the roof.

Ash has been awakened by the slowing and gentle touchdown of the sleigh. The reindeer is breathing heavily and fully, her head forward and down. Looking around, Ash takes in her surroundings. There is no one else here. She blinks in the brightness of the light and looks to her left. Stretching into the distance, she can see more buildings of different sizes and the sound of a workshop takes her gaze to a large shed-like construction. She hears the sounds of the workshops, metal soldering, wood sawing and hammers banging.

Coming out of her doze and awakening fully, she realises exactly where she is. Surely not another administrative blunder, she thinks, but how to ask the Sergeant Charge of Sleigh if he may have brought her to the wrong quarter? She alights and walks round to the front of the sleigh, places her hand on the nose of the reindeer, and chooses her words carefully.

Your reindeer has done well, flying so hard and fast. She is very keen, is she not?

Indeed, she wished to show you her stamina and skill.

Then could it be she has overshot her mark?

Not so! Not so! Our orders have been made quite clear.

Forgive me, Sergeant Charge, but I am a little confused. Surely I am to report for de-robing?

The sergeant is a little taken aback to be asked such a question. Ash realises her mistake straight away on catching his expression.

This is too much you ask me. All is in hand.

Then I thank you for good service and await in friendship for our paths to cross once more.

Ay so. Then I bid you farewell until such a time.

The reindeer, sensing they are about to move off, nudges Ash and snorts.

The Sergeant Charge smiles. You do not recognise her, do you? It is three years since you assisted her birth.

Ash looks at the reindeer. Yes, I remember you were the last and we thought you were lost. She pats her neck.

You have done well, my friend, but I hope not exercised too much?

No, she has great stamina and wishes only to show you her prowess and potential. And, to say thank you for her life.

Ash cups the reindeer’s head in her hands. Not thanks to me, but bless the universe and give thanks to the Great Creator, yes?

The reindeer nods. The sergeant leads the reindeer from the front and they leave along the path and out of sight.

Standing alone outside the house, Ash is still confused and not really sure what to do. She cannot enter the house before de-robing as weapons are not allowed. Come to think of it, I am standing here as large as life, with my sword and crossbow. She feels very self-conscious and is pleased for the moment that there is no one around. She pulls her cloak around herself more tightly, not for warmth but somehow covering herself and weapons makes her feel a little less conspicuous. These buildings are designated warriors first class. I should not expect to be assigned here for at least another five years or so. She begins to recall the de-robing hut for third class warriors, in the other quarter. Organised chaos. Bodies, weapons, and the smell of wet clothing steaming in the warmth as they dry out. She remembers helpers wending their way through the melee, picking up clothes and placing them in boxes with large letters stating name and status, ready for laundering; others taking discarded clothing to the incinerator. Warriors, struggling to take off boots in the cramped conditions, stifle curses under their breath. Despite being told that the correct measurements were applied, the building never seemed able to accommodate the warriors whilst they performed de-robing.

Not enough room to take my sword out of its hilt, never mind swing it! complains one.

She remembers the officer in charge shouting above the din for silence.

I cannot concentrate and mistakes will not be tolerated.

She smiles. He was right, she cannot remember there having ever been a mistake. All were satisfied at the end of the day. She comes back to the present; this is very different now. She suddenly thinks of her own mistake once more and her stomach turns and her ribs begin to hurt. Maybe I am being quarantined, kept away from the rest while I seek penance. Then another thought enters her head. Perhaps they are full and using this as overspill. This latter reason appears more acceptable and heartens her somewhat. A few moments later she sees, walking briskly and with purpose along the path, some three doors down, the very same officer in charge she had been recalling. He is followed by the large figure of a man that dwarfs the officer, even though he is walking three paces behind. The officer in charge is wearing his familiar long robe of maroon and gold and Ash sees that his beard has turned from silver to white since they last met, and now is grown down to his belly button. Never mind that! I am exposed in the middle of the street, like this. She watches, trying to keep as still as possible. I wonder what they are doing here? He takes two steps to the other’s one and as they near, she realises the other is no less than the Master of Arms himself. Her stomach does another flip. If they see me here, what do I tell them? Walking purposefully, his head held high and looking dead ahead, the officer in charge has not noticed Ash. Good, he has not seen me, maybe they will just pass by. He reaches the veranda of the house she is standing beside. He suddenly notices her.

What are you standing there for? In the cold? Come on. Come on, we have work to do.

Ash hesitates, he is addressing her as if he is expecting her to be there. She splutters but—de-robing. The house? She points towards the front door.

Oh dear. Oh dear, you see? You see! He turns and looks at the Master of Arms for confirmation.

This is what we get three years on. Not a single letter of request not a single scrap of paper. No reviews, no de-briefing, dear, dear. Nothing. Nilch.

He shrugs his shoulders and looks at the Master of Arms.

Ash knows how upset the officer in charge gets when no letter has been sent with individual requests. She looks at the face of the Master of Arms. He stands tall, his back straight and strong, he looks down from his towering height. Ash cannot help thinking, his tunic could engulf me, I wish it would! But as he stares down at her she sees that he has a twinkle in his deep-set eyes and then he winks. This is encouragement indeed. Ash feels a sense of relief. Perhaps a reprimand is not their purpose, at least not now at any rate. She is about to apologise to the officer for her apparent lack of duty when he turns around and flings the door open, gesturing her to enter before she can utter the words.

Tut, Tut. Time for de-robing.

She obediently climbs the veranda and enters the door.

They have entered a lobby area painted in the same pale green as outside. Ash looks around, one wall has hooks and empty clothes hangers. On the opposite wall hang wooden frames that must only be for weaponry. There is only one piece of furniture, a wooden bench, cushioned and covered in maroon velvet. Gold braid and copper buttons hold the velvet along the sides. This much lobby space for my de-robing? She smiles and thinks, this much space provided for a mere one. We had this much for at least four of us in the de-robing hut. The other two have taken up a position in the middle of the room and are standing patiently watching her take in her surroundings. Ash smiles at the officer in charge.

Very good. Now let us begin.

He has apparently lost any sense of irritation and seems to have the air of one who is quite looking forward to the task in hand. In fact, he looks positively excited by the prospect. For the first time the Master of Arms speaks, his voice deep and soft. As he begins Ash instinctively stands up straight and places her hand at her side, resting on the handle of her sword. She faces him, indicating she is ready and waiting for instructions.

Blessings are given for the safe return of our Light Warrior. There have been many tasks performed in the last three years and we welcome this warrior in peace. We give thanks to the universe for the safe haven and sanctuary of the Grotto. Long may it continue.

Ay so, the officer in charge replies.

Ash bows her head.

The master continues, Now, we are to de-robe and as you do, you will think of peace and love. Any thoughts of negative energies will be transformed to the task of building and helping, so that the ceremony will be completed successfully as all have been before us.

Ay so, Ash responds and consciously releases the invisible energy guard she has placed around her. I give blessings for my return and I declare my peace and will to help.

The officer in charge continues. Good. Good. Splendid. Your guard has served you well but I notice a little weakening perhaps?

He turns to the master. They both nod. The door opens behind Ash and two figures walk in. Ash turns and they bow. There is a male and female. Ash sees they have the facial features of helpers, with pointed ears and noses but must be of mixed heritage as they stand taller than an adult helper, and their hands are short and thick. The male must have about twelve times around the sun and female fourteen, she estimates. They are bowed, looking at the floor but then the male looks up and catches her eye. Ash is little taken aback and immediately adopts her warrior’s stance

How do you, boy? Is this impertinence I see before me, or something more? You try to penetrate my eyes for knowledge. I stand before you, a warrior that you have pledged to perform de-robing for?

The master steps forward and pulling himself up to his full height, looks down and addresses the boy.

Nimpho, what have you been told about this task?

Nimpho is obviously ashamed of his action.

Please forgive. Could not help myself. So excited. Lost patience, miss.

What do we say about patience? asks the master.

It is written in the first chapter, and is ‘the third requisite of the warrior that binds his actions’, he quotes.

Ay so, says Ash. I assume you have taken the pledge to perform this task? Nimpho nods.

What class are you?

I am third this moon’s cycle.

Third!

Ash is not pleased and turns to the master. What are they teaching these days? She addresses Nimpho again.

Patience is indeed, as you so rightly say, in the first chapter.

If I may, the officer intervenes, we must continue our task. Does the boy stay or return to other duties?

Ash replies, Well, if I were the teacher I would ask him to spend an hour’s meditation on the virtue of patience and report back what has been revealed to him. And if he is third class then I am certain he knows the answer to your question.

It will be arranged, says the master and on seeing the obvious disappointment on Nimpho’s face, he speaks to him again.

The task required simple application according to your learning. Remember that discipline is the first requisite. Perhaps you will meditate on this as well?

The boy bows in an exaggerated way that Ash ponders for a moment. Was it still impertinence or a display of genuine remorse? A blatant attempt of theft of my energy, or just youthful high spirits? She checks herself; time for this later.

I shall be speaking to your teacher, she says as he is exiting the room.

Meanwhile the girl has not flinched or seemingly moved a muscle during these exchanges.

Ash looks at her. Please stand upright and inform me of whom I am addressing.

My name is Nervo and I come to assist in the task of de-robing, of which gives me great pleasure to serve, miss.

Indeed. Welcome. We will continue.

The master takes on an air of authority once more and Ash stands to hear the next direction. There is silence as the officer in charge takes out a clip-board from under his robe and smooths down the first information sheet with the palm of his hand. He takes out his pen from the side holder of the clipboard and begins to write. He is still using the same ancient pen, Ash thinks as she observes him. He writes methodically, the sounds of the scratching pen are the only ones for a moment. He writes Name: Ash. Age: 19 times around the sun. Complexion: Fair. Height: two metres. Hair: black, long: Eyes: green. Time served as warrior: three times around the sun. Class of warrior: he hesitates and leaves this section blank.

He looks up and smiles. Please continue, master.

Nervo, please assist in taking off the cloak.

Nervo fetches the wooden stool that she placed by the door, and stands on it behind Ash. A thick silver brooch clasps the cloak and is connected to a chain that ties the sides of the cloak together. She takes the back of the collar and with a smooth action unbuckles the clasp and lifts the cloak over her crossbow and shoulders and places it over her forearm. The cloak is black and made of dyed flax, woven very tightly to produce a strong, durable material. Although black, there are patches where the colour has faded through wear and weathering to grey. There is a lining of fur and the collar and cuffs are made of sheepskin. The fleece on the inside is now coloured grey and matted into small balls. There are, here and there, patches of leather used to repair the cloak that are worn smooth, sewn on with varying degrees of neatness. It is clear that this cloak has seen many days and has been used well. On the front inside panels are a number of pockets. Nervo takes the cloak and places it on a hook on the wall. Although the cloak must be heavy for her she shows no sign of this, and Ash is impressed with her gentle, rehearsed actions. As Ash is watching her, the officer coughs and simultaneously says, No letter.

He is not supposed to remind Ash again but feels the need to. He looks at the master.

Just a little tickle, you know. Not much.

The master stares expectantly at Ash. Ash immediately pipes up.

I would like a new cloak, please.

She makes a mental note; I must remember that I will not get anything if not specifically requested. The officer in charge is pleased with this request. Done, he says and writes on the form. He turns to Nervo.

Please find me the energy elixir and hand me the bottle.

She goes straight to the top left hand pocket of the cloak and hands him a small green bottle with a cork top. He examines the contents in the light and is not impressed by the small amount of dark fluid in the bottom. He looks quizzically at Ash, who feels a little embarrassed.

I needed to stretch it out, as I was not in a place nor had the time to restore the contents.

Hmmm.

Ash continues, I will of course request a fresh supply.

The officer in charge scratches his pen once more. Beginning to wonder at this warrior’s supplies.

You have the herb fusion, I take it?

Ash smiles. Yes I have umm— she remembers how little she has, a few leaves left.

Bring me.

Nervo, again reaches to the correct pocket and brings out a leather pouch and hands it to the officer. He turns it upside down. A few flakes of leaves flutter down and float to the ground.

Hardly a decent cup of fusion?

Ash begins to explain As I was summoned, there was no time— He raises his hand and stops her.

No need. We know your situation. Though how you managed to— He checks himself. This is not the time or place to discuss the tasks performed or what she has been doing for three years. Even though he is tempted to ask. Discipline.

He addresses Nervo once more.

You are familiar with the procedure, please bring me the certificate.

This time Nervo lifts the right hand panel and finds a hard leather cylinder, about twenty centimetres long and five centimetres in diameter. Ash watches. She has not opened it for a long time, she feels herself tensing. The cylinder carries important, precious documents. If they are damaged by rain or marked in some way, this would not go down well at all. At this point she is not really sure of how many bad marks are against her name already. He opens the top of the cylinder and takes out the parchment. As he unfolds it Ash can see that it is still pristine. Thank you, she silently addresses the universe in her head. The officer nods his approval and marks this off on his form.

What other contents there are, please lay them down on the floor under the cloak. Thank you, Nervo.

She places a purse of precious stones and runes, a personal notebook, dogeared with some of the pages torn and the outer cover curled up, again through weathering and usage.

If you please, I request a new notebook and writing materials. The officer makes a note.

Your crystals?

I carry them nearer my person.

Good, this is best practice.

The officer looks towards the master, who gives a nod of confirmation.

The Master of Arms steps towards Ash and she lifts the sword out from the sheath and places it across his hands. He lifts is up and examines it. The blade is a metre length and made of mixed metals. The blade is double edged and reaches to a sharp point at the end. But this is a Light Warrior’s sword. It is not used in the conventional way to stab or maim others, but is used to direct energy. The handle has encrusted diamonds, crystals and precious stones which help to expand and amplify the energy and give the user more power and reach. He examines it with an expert eye.

I notice some de-structuring in the molecules and the handle has been pushed out of alignment. But you appear to have put it to good use and it has served you well.

He walks towards the weapons wall and hangs it there. As he turns and walks back to the middle of the room, he says, There is of course a new sword waiting to be forged, it only requires your commissioning request.

Ash is surprised and is about to protest that she would like to retain this sword, as it is truly a great friend, but stops herself. There is something in the way the Master of Arms has said it that conveys to her that there is no point in questioning his words; there is a certainty that she will have a new sword.

She says, I give permission for the new sword to be forged.

The officer in charge sighs his relief and scratches his pen once more on the form. Next, Ash takes her crossbow from her back and hands it the Master of Arms, bridged across her two hands. He takes it in both hands and immediately, without examining it, hangs it on a hook.

As he walks back he says, Likewise.

Again Ash feels a sense of loss but accepts that she will have a new crossbow.

I request possession of a new crossbow.

Like the sword, the crossbow is not used as a weapon of destruction or to hurt, but is a useful tool for enabling the Light Warrior to access areas out of reach. The crossbow can fire rope to secure a crossing or send crystals and other precious stones into portals. Despite this these are still weapons, and thus, can be used in the conventional way. This is why it is necessary to de-robe whilst at Santa’s Grotto. It prevents negative energies or forces disrupting the good will and harmony. This is essential for the success of Santa’s run.

Ash reaches into a side pocket of her inner garments to fetch out her crystals. As she does so her ribs pinch and she winces from the sudden pain. She had forgotten about her cracked ribs, being so absorbed in what was happening. Both the officer in charge and the Master of Arms notice her discomfort. The officer speaks.

A healing bath and attendants have been ordered, as soon as we have finished de-robing you will take it, here in the house. There is no reason for you to leave the house until you are fully fit and your energy has been restored.

Ash now realises that this is why she has been brought to this quarter and not the usual de-robing area. She is genuinely touched.

I thank you for your foresight and good service. I will indeed be very appreciative of a healing bath.

No matter. It is only what you are deserving of, the officer replies.

Ash has some questions about what is taking place and precisely what it is she does deserve. She is about to ask a question when the Master of Arms turns to the officer in charge and they exchange a nod. They have finished their duty here and will take their leave. The Master of Arms addresses the universe.

Once again, we thank the universe for the safe return of our Light Warrior. As if reading her thoughts, he turns to Ash.

We shall discus more of your deeds at a later stage. Your healing bath awaits you. All will be revealed, for now it is your priority to be fit and restored to full efficiency.

Ash bows as they both exit the front door. Ash and Nervo are alone in the room. Nervo holds a small gold casket lined with velvet and Ash realises that she is still in possession of her crystals.

Here, she says, placing the crystals in the casket. I will expect them back as soon as possible. Yes?

Indeed, miss. I shall be placing them in the moonlight forthwith and return them to you as soon as they have passed inspection.

Closing the casket, Nervo bows and leaves the room, following the other two.

The room suddenly feels quite empty and Ash takes one last look at her faithful possessions hanging on the hooks. Goodbye, dear friends. She sits on the bench and takes off her boots and places them by the side. She wiggles her toes to loosen them. Feeling weary, she stands up and opens the door that leads to the house.

Immediately her senses are awakened to the warmth and smell of sweet herbs and minerals. She cannot discern them all, but notices lavender and sage are prevalent. She hears the gentle rhythm of chimes and harp music, which is soothing and so peaceful, she wants to fall asleep on her feet. The lighting is dull, with just enough to see all the room, but not too bright to dazzle. She is standing on a platform above the room. There are three descending steps on either side and as she takes a couple of steps forward she sees a deep pool below. The pool must be about two metres deep and four metres square. It is full of a glorious olive green liquid, more solid than water and looking like some kind of jelly. The room extends towards large patio doors, but Ash cannot make out anything beyond as outside is black. She sees only a reflection of the room within and the shadowy shape of someone looking back at her. Her own reflection, not seen for a while, looking rather bedraggled. She turns away immediately, not a pretty sight. Ash ponders: take off my clothes and get into the pool? Indeed, she is aware of a very strong pull to do just that. The side door opens and in walks none other than Lady Santa, followed by two women carrying towels draped across their arms. Ash thinks for a second that she must be in the wrong place. Lady Santa come to give me a healing bath? No, it cannot be. I am glad I did not get in the pool. She looks at the women. They are all dressed in flowing robes of a lavender colour. Lady Santa is wearing a head scarf of silk that flutters at the back as she walks. Ash is struck at how elegant these women are and how they are moving with such ease and contentment. Lady Santa is a little shorter than Ash and carries her height and stature with grace and dignity. In comparison Ash feels rather inadequate and becomes somewhat self-conscious about her own awkwardness. The three are all smiling and stop in front of the pool below Ash.

So pleased to see you, my dear, Lady Santa speaks.

Ash is immediately reminded of the warmth and compassion that this voice carries and how it engenders such peace and happiness. She suddenly has a sense of how long she has been away.

My Lady. I am very much pleased to see you also.

Ash answers her with a bow. There are a few moments where each is looking at the other.

Well. You cannot get into the pool unless you step down into it, now can you?

Lady Santa is smiling and the two other women giggle in agreement, not in a condescending way, but with a kind of motherly charm. Ash needs no second invitation and steps down towards them. As she does so, Lady Santa holds out her hands towards her. Ash instinctively takes them in hers. Lady Santa looks deep into Ash’s eyes with such love and compassion, Ash is struck at how much she has missed this wonderful woman. As if reading her thoughts, Lady Santa says, Yes, my dear, it has been too long and you must take a vow that never again will you be missing from us for three years at a stretch.

Readily, my lady. Most readily I do take this vow.

Now then, to business. Let’s have a look at your chi and do some work on your chakras. Did you know you are out of alignment, my dear? Not much, but enough to disrupt the energy field.

Yes, says Ash, that is how I got these cracked ribs. I invoked so much energy it knocked me sideways and I landed on a stone. Happily, it did the trick though, the energy went where it was meant to.

Yes, it most certainly did. But I must say you did not invoke too much energy. It is only because you are slightly out of line that it affected you. This could certainly knock a person sideways.

Lady Santa lets go of Ash’s hands and walks around her, raising her hands over her head and then scanning her body up and down with her hands held away from Ash, for a few minutes.

Well, I must say I am impressed. I thought that after all you had been through, your energy levels would be much more depleted. You have done very well to stay in the shape you are in. I will revise my healing programme accordingly. She leaves Ash’s side and stands next to the two other women.

She continues, I am sure you don’t mind, dear, but I have requested two healing angels to be present. I think you are familiar with them; they assure me that you have given permission to them in the past to assist.

Ash instinctively looks up towards the patio doors, she had not noticed that in the corner near the ceiling were two small angels, patiently waiting, floating silently, with eager smiles on their faces.

She is apologetic. Of course. Forgive me for not noticing. I am very glad of your assistance. It is most welcome.

Excellent! they reply in unison.

Now, dear, indicating the two waiting women, "they are here also to assist.

First they will help you undress, and then we want you to step into the pool." Ash glances at the black of the patio doors once more.

Do not worry, there is no-one who can see anything. We are absolutely private here, as befits the occasion.

Feeling relieved and eager to get into the pool, Ash obliges and is helped to get undressed. She is already beginning to feel the healing power of the energy that is flowing and a sense of such security and safety fill her with a great sense of peace.

She silently recites, All that has been done is left behind and all that is to come remains in the realms of the future. Here and now are all that matters and I release my will to the good grace of the healing. I let go and let come forth that which is needed all in the highest good.

Ash hears Lady Santa’s voice telling her to relax and allow the warm healing to flow, but her voice seems so far away and within a few seconds Ash is firmly and soundly asleep. The contents of the pool are filled with a mixture of herbs and minerals and the viscosity is such that it is able to suspend the body. Ash floats, with her limbs supported just below the surface. The warm gentle contents start to sooth and warm the body. Her head lies resting on a pillow that sits firmly on the surface. While she sleeps the angels work, floating around above the pool and targeting areas of her body where there is pain or injury. Although they do not touch her, by the use of their hands they are able to send energy into Ash’s physical body. Lady Santa takes up a position on the floor, level with the centre of the pool, and sits on a wooden meditation stool. The other two women stand behind at shoulder level. Lady Santa places her feet flat on the floor, her hands flat on her thighs, sits upright and takes a couple of deep breaths and then closes her eyes. At the same time the women take a couple of breaths and standing absolutely still, close their eyes too. The room is completely silent, the music has died out and the meditation and healing process are in full progress.

CHAPTER

2

Ash awakes and opens her eyes. She is lying on a bed on a firm mattress covered with a quilt. She takes a few seconds to become fully awake. The bed is large and as she lifts her head up and back to look above herself, she can see that the wooden headboard has a carved picture with ancient symbols on it and creatures of various forms depicted during different activities. But, as she is looking at it upside down she thinks, I will look at it fully later. Sometime during the healing, when I was fast asleep they have put me to bed. She stretches on the bed, a full long stretch and is struck how refreshed and rested, but also how energised, her body feels. No longer any signs of weariness, aches and pain. She has a sense of great peace and lets this feeling of pleasure wash over her for a few minutes. The bedroom must be on the side of the healing room, she concludes. It, too, has patio doors but this time she can see through them to the outside. The sun is shining and lights up a garden covered in snow. There are various leafless plants and shrubs sticking out above the snow. A few statues of marble and sandstone, with traces of snow covering their heads and trapped by the contours of the figures, stand quietly. She recognises depictions of divas, tree spirits and the like. Even in its dormant frozen state, Ash thinks it is a wonderful garden. She takes in the room. There is a functional looking wardrobe along one wall and a very fine ornate dressing table with a large mirror, and chair conveniently placed in front. All the furniture, not surprisingly as this is Santa’s Grotto, is made of different kinds of wood. The planked wooden floor has luscious rugs for walking along the sides of the bed and in front of the dressing table. Next to the wardrobe she notices a door; this must be the bathroom. She lifts the quilt and pads in her bare feet to use the facilities. She is still naked and so when she returns to the room, although it is wonderfully warm she nevertheless puts on the long, thick cotton lavender dressing gown that is hanging on the outside of the wardrobe. She stands in the room thinking. She is suddenly aware that she does not know what is supposed to happen next. Is she to stay here until someone comes or should she open the door and have a look around the rest of the house? The kitchen and dining areas would be good rooms to find. For the first time she is aware of how absolutely ravenous she feels. As she thinks this, as if to accentuate the feeling her stomach makes a big rumbling sound. The door next to the dressing table opens and Lady Santa enters, followed by the same two women from last night. They are both carrying trays. One has a tray with a large teapot with milk jug and two large china cups and saucers. The other has a plate covered over with a gold, rounded lid and two other, smaller plates: one with fruit peeled and prepared; the other toast and marmalade. There are two medium sized glasses, one with lemon water and the other a fruit juice of unknown origin, Ash cannot decide but is eager to find out. Two women helpers enter the room, one carrying a table and the other, two chairs. They place them in the centre of the room in front of the patio doors. Both trays are placed on the table and all four women bow first to Lady Santa then to Ash. They depart through the door quietly and without a word being spoken. Ash suddenly realises this, when she and Lady Santa are alone in the room together. She was so absorbed by the contents of the trays and watching the attendants, she has failed to even acknowledge or greet Lady Santa. Lady Santa has placed herself behind one of the chairs at the table and is smiling as Ash turns to face her. Ash instinctively bows.

Good day, My Lady.

Well I see that the healing has been successful, my dear. You look refreshed and restored. There is no residue of pain or aches, I take it?

No, not a bit, I am feeling both relaxed and energised. I thank you and your attendants for the excellent service provided.

Ash is about to continue with a question about why she has been so honoured when Lady Santa interrupts her, as if reading her thoughts again.

Right, she says looking at the trays, the lemon water first, then the juice. It is a mix, by the way, but very pleasant nonetheless. I have put some additional herbs and minerals that aid the body. Then, I am sure you will be able to do justice to the chef by eating all your breakfast.

She stretches out her hand and indicates for Ash to sit at the other chair. They both sit down and Ash takes the lemon water and drinks it in a couple of gulps.

I have of course already eaten, but I will be very pleased to take a cup of tea with you, Lady Santa says as she watches Ash take the fruit juice glass and repeat the process once more of downing it straight away.

She breathes out. Ahh! That is good! Both drinks go down and almost immediately her thirst dies away.

Eager to continue, Ash lifts off the golden lid from the main plate and examines it. The smell is marvellous and the food very inviting. Lady Santa prepares the cups on the tray and starts to pour milk and tea into them. Ash realises that this is the first time that she has sat with Lady Santa like this. Despite the fact that to all Light Warriors she is the maternal figurehead and relates to all them as any mother would.

Nevertheless, here she is Ash, Light Warrior third class, being treated by Lady Santa in the healing bath and now taking tea as if it were all perfectly natural and something they have done a thousand times before. She looks at the plate in front of her greedily and thinks that any discussions or questions can wait. There are four halves of lamb’s kidney cooked in butter, diced mushrooms, scrambled egg, two triangular halves of fried bread, a grilled tomato cut in two and three triangular shaped hash browns, crisp and steaming. Ash takes up her knife and fork, smiles at Lady Santa, and is about to tuck in when she remembers she should say the thank you affirmation, spoken before all meals. She does so quietly and rather quickly, hoping that this does not convey any less intent of her thanks. There are a few minutes of silence whilst Ash eats, takes a cup from Lady Santa and they both sip their tea. Ash’s senses, especially at this present time her taste and smell, have been heightened by the healing process and all seems perfect, she hardly wishes to break it by speaking. When she finishes the cooked breakfast she swaps her plate with the plate of toast and marmalade. Lady Santa re-fills her cup of tea, having watched Ash enjoy herself. Lady Santa senses this is the right time to speak, so she says pleasantly, Now, my dear, there are many questions you have, I know, that require answering. But I am not sure if you aware of how many questions we have of you also. When I say ‘we’ I am referring to many senior and elder Light Warriors, not to mention my husband, of course who is champing at the bit to get to you, as it were.

She pauses, watching Ash as she stops mid-bite of a piece of toast and looks at Lady Santa, feeling suddenly that perhaps all is not as perfect as it seems. She manages to swallow, takes a sip of tea.

Questions you all have?

Lady Santa laughs out loud at the look on Ash’s face. My dear, nothing to be worried about. You have done many tasks and many deeds in three years, when I look at the list I can hardly believe it myself. Naturally there will be some explanations and reasoning that require discussion, not to mention where all these things contribute to the big picture. But luckily there is plenty of time for all that. Right now I sense it would be best to begin with answering some of your own personal questions and then things will unfold as you talk to the others. My husband, as I say, would have had you in for your review this morning, but I put my foot down and told him he must wait for the healing process to be fully complete before seeing you.

Ash feels relieved by this statement but is struck by the use of, ‘this morning.’ My Lady, you said this morning, what time is it now?

It is two thirty in the afternoon. You have been asleep for at least twelve hours. But, no matter, it is what you needed and I am pleased with the results.

Ash is amazed, as she has been so many times in the past, how Lady Santa seems to create time to do things when everyone else is fretting and performing flat spins, especially at this time of year. Lady Santa seemingly takes everything in her stride and is not stressed into rushing around, but carries a very confident air of knowing that all will be well and things will all fall into place perfectly. She is, of course, the counter to Lord Santa, who finds this time of year and its inherent responsibilities stressful at times. He has a tendency to raise his voice and shout instructions ten to the dozen and despite Lady Santa’s pleading to do one thing at a time, insists on overseeing several projects all at once. Sometimes when he barks an instruction there is confusion as to who should be receiving it. The helpers stand hesitantly until they realise it is themselves, or Lord Santa stares at them and says something like, ‘Jump to it, then!’ or, ‘What are you waiting for? You can understand an instruction, can’t you?’ Lady Santa will have many tasks and instructions to give, and yet she has taken time out to perform the healing and sit and have breakfast with her. Ash is a little overwhelmed by the amount of effort being afforded her.

My Lady, I have been away for three years. I left as I have returned, Light Warrior third class. I got lost in the forest on the wrong co-ordinates; I failed to readjust myself after the shift, and so had to be found by the Sergeant Charge of Sleigh. I was expecting the opposite of what I have been granted. I expected to be planted in the third quarter, where I would rightly receive the ridicule and jibes of my peers. Why, right now, should I not be performing my tasks whilst fencing all manner of quips and remarks? I must be forgiven and accepted back as a respected warrior, but I am brought here to this house and have been granted such attendance that one might imagine the return of a VIP. I am heartily grateful for all I have been given, and yet I am very confused as to why am I am being treated this way? Lady Santa takes a moment or two before she begins to explain.

Well, all these things are true, taken from your perspective. However, we have a different interpretation of events. True, you left three years ago as a third class warrior but, and I don’t think that this is giving away too much, you have returned more than third class. As I said earlier, we have been very impressed, even amazed at the work you have undertaken, and for these reasons alone, to grant a simple healing and this accommodation are merely gestures indicating your standing. In other words, you are being treated in exactly the way that befits you. She pauses as Ash tries to assimilate the last statement.

Of course, there will be questions regarding why and how you undertook some of the tasks. You will need to explain why at times you have, shall we say, strayed from the disciplines taught you and why we had to summon you back here, rather than you attending upon your own volition. But these things are minor and I am sure that whatever reprimands are waiting, if any, will be very fair and slight. I have no doubt that as you tell us your stories all will be put into perspective.

"I see. At least, I think I see. I have been carried along by a great desire to do my work, and this has taken me to many places and tasks. I had no idea of the next step until it was upon me and then I followed the guidance and performed whatever ceremony