The Curse and the Promise of the Golden Scroll

By Joy Marie Morris

After her father is slain when she is only three weeks old, Taleah is taken into the palace of his best friend, Talan, Lord of Estaron. Cared for as his own child, Taleah has always known the High Knowledge from the teaching of the Elandara, and the words of the Golden Scroll. However obedient she intends to be, her bright and mischievous spirit still inadvertently and consistently brings chaos to the halls of the palace. As Lord Talan says, “She regularly gives the palace guards nightmares.”

While on a journey which is meant to be a wonderful treat, tragedy strikes, depriving her of all she has known and loved. Lost and utterly alone, she is forced to survive in a world torn by war and besieged by a deadly enemy, the darkened ones, the Vancor. Grief and deprivation destroy her memory. Having forgotten who she is, and where she belongs, she questions her worth and believes herself to be unloved and unlovable. Whatever else she has forgotten, she still remembers the teaching of the Elandara and the words of Golden Scroll. She clings to the High Knowledge in the midst of unspeakable horrors.

The long struggle to find her way home shows her a world she never knew existed. She encounters the needs and griefs of elves that live far from her sheltered life in the palace. Taleah endures grueling tests of her physical strength, her moral integrity, and her willingness to put the welfare of others above her own. She learns that she was never forsaken by the Elandara or by the Comarion, the great beasts and immortal guardians of her world.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Joy Marie Morris
• Release date: May 13, 2022
• ISBN: 9781953114532

Joy Marie Morris

Joy Marie Morris, MS, is a writer, teacher, speaker, and member of Word Weavers, Int’l. Her workbooks encouraging students, High Efficiency Kids and Numbers Don’t Bite, have been distributed in Europe and Asia. Her entertaining presentations for students, faculty and adults returning to college, have been popular in the U.S. She has twice been honored by the President of the United States for her volunteer work.

Book preview

Map of Lashterie

Definitions and Names

The Realms of the Elven World of Lashterie:

Estaron – Eastern Realm ruled by Lord Talan – Capitol City is Shondari

Coran and Falar – sons of Lord Talan

Chrishana – daughter of Lord Talan

Randual – Keeper of the Household of Lord Talan

Kylon – Commander of the Palace Guards in Estaron

Dolmeya – Western Realm ruled by Lord Condril – Capitol City is Leycana

Kanya – Northern Realm ruled by Lord Astara – Capitol City is Yatanzi

Notanas – first born son of Astara, a Hidden Rider

Andalas – second son of Astara, a Hidden Rider

Fandar – Commander of the palace guards in Yatanzi

Mykon – Palace Guard of Yatanzi

Triadon – Southern Realm ruled by Lord Senebar – Capitol City is Haifar

Domethian – City of the citadel of the High King

Salanor – High King of Lashterie and father of Katonah

Katonah – Captain of the Hidden Riders and the foretold truehearted High King

Telemar – chosen Steward of the High King

Delsanor – Commander of the Guard of the High King

Lelowyn – Keeper of the Household of the High King

Immortal Guardians:

Elandara – Guardians and teachers given to the elves of Lashterie

Comarion – Gift of the Elandara to Lashterie – powerful and immense immortal beasts

Tandra – Great Lions – their lord is Tanasad

Valdon – a Tandra of Domethian

Glendor – a Tandra of Estaron

Ardon – a Tandra of Estaron

Kyriana – Great Eagles – their lord is Torcon the Sky Lord

Arkana – Great Silver Hawks – their lord is Arion the Wind Master

Thunderon – Great Dolphins – their lord is Theynan the Sea Lord

Special Elves

Hidden Riders – the elite warriors of Lashterie – they serve in all realms

Loricanai – those elves with the gift from the Elandara to speak with the beasts

Vancor – the Darkened Ones – enemies of the bright elves of Lashterie

Elves of Estaron:

Taleah – child of Lord Seren and Lady Dariana

Seren – Taleah’s father and High Commander of the armies of Estaron

Lady Dariana – Taleah’s mother and widow of Seren

Lord Talan – Lord of Estaron and Taleah’s guardian

Palora – maid to Dariana and Taleah

Thoron – a captain in Estaron

Landar – a young warrior of Estaron

Rondor – Patrol Leader of the Hidden Riders

Nandaron – Patrol Leader of the Hidden Riders

Elves of Kanya:

Carna – a member of noble family in Astara

Dontan – brother of Carna

Pedarin and Elora – friends of Carna

Table of Contents

Map of the World of Lashterie.

Definitions and Names

Chapter One – The Escape

Chapter Two – The Struggle

Chapter Three – A Painful Lesson

Chapter Four - Restriction

Chapter Five – A Second Chance

Chapter Six – The Comarion

Chapter Seven - Choices

Chapter Eight – Tragedy and Grief

Chapter Nine – Terrible Struggles

Chapter Ten – The Curse Falls

Chapter Eleven – Repentance

Chapter Twelve – The Coming of the Comarion

Chapter Thirteen – The Battle for Lashterie

Chapter Fourteen – Many Triumphs

Chapter Fifteen – The Lost is Found

Chapter Sixteen – The Plan to Escape

Chapter Seventeen – The Battle in the Woods

Chapter Eighteen – The Return to Estaron

Chapter Nineteen – Returning Memories

Chapter Twenty – A Noble Effort

Chapter Twenty-one – Treachery

Chapter Twenty-two – Secret Plans

Chapter Twenty-three – Of Blessings and Consequences

Chapter Twenty-four – An Unexpected Attach

Chapter Twenty-five – Many Surprises

Chapter Twenty-six – Several Changes Lives

Chapter Twenty- seven – Honor and Glory

Chapter Twenty-eight – The Crowned High King

Chapter Twenty-nine – Terrible Suffering

Chapter Thirty – Healing and Comfort

Chapter Thirty-one – Days of Praise and Rejoicing

Epilogue

To My Readers

Chapter One

The Escape

The Eastern Realm of Estaron

The horse and rider were close to exhaustion. For two days and nights, they had hastened through the forests, over the high outcroppings, and across the broad meadows of the eastern realm to the city of Shondari and the palace of Talan, Lord of Estaron.

The elven warrior, now accompanied by a carriage and driver, attempted to outrace the oncoming tempest. The powerful wind gave wings to their horses as it forced them forward, almost as though it were trying to escape the menace that followed close behind. They entered the forest as the deluge descended upon them.

* * * * *

The storm struck with vicious fury. A blaze of lightning plummeted down into the forest. Trees burst into flames. The sudden light in the blackness revealed the angry clouds boiling across the heavens. Thunder followed and rose to a mighty crescendo. The sudden torrent forced a waterfall over the darkened windows. Deafened by the tumult as she gazed outside, Lady Dariana started at the voice of her maid.

My lady, said Palora, a messenger.

Dariana turned. The tall form of the elven warrior filled the doorway. He moved forward into the light. His hooded cloak streamed water. He uncovered his head and bowed.

Lady Dariana, I am Darol. I serve Lord Talan. I come with urgent news. You and your child must leave this place at once. I have secured a carriage from the palace for you.

Palora slipped away unnoticed. She had feared something like this. Though she had kept her thoughts to herself, not wishing to distress her mistress, she had prepared.

Lady Dariana crossed the hall to her would-be savior and studied his face. The wife of Lord Seren, High Commander of the armies of Lord Talan, she knew a number of warriors. This one she did not know. Still, she liked what she saw. His eyes were kind and lit with wisdom. His presence exuded both strength and gentleness.

She kept her voice calm. Something of importance must have happened.

Lord Talan and his armies fight to secure the southern border. A silver hawk brought news a large troop of Vancor approaches from Kanya. The Vancor chief rides with them. Lord Seren rode north to take command there. He intends to remove their leader.

My husband is in the north now, and no longer with the armies of Lord Talan?

Yes, my lady. He struggled to suppress a smile. That is his way.

Dariana smiled herself. You know him well. That is indeed his way. Lord Seren is not one to lose an opportunity to serve in the place of greatest danger.

Lord Talan orders your safe removal to the palace. You are a great prize to the Vancor.

Have we time to pack?

No, my lady. I fear we delay too long already.

Then we must obey at once. She turned to give her maid and companion instructions only to see there was no need. Palora stepped forward. She already held the sleeping three-week-old Taleah. A few necessities and valuables stuffed into a satchel hung on her shoulder.

They hurried outside huddled against the wind that tore at their cloaks. Dariana’s hood blew off. Wind twisted her long curls into a wide golden mesh that stung as it whipped her face. The rain, driven by the wind, struck them so forcefully it hurt to open their eyes to see. Bent over to protect the baby in her arms, Palora stumbled forward, her light frame buffeted by a powerful gust. Darol caught her and shepherded them into the waiting carriage.

His horse tied behind, Darol joined them inside as the carriage moved forward. I hope you will forgive the breach of etiquette, my lady. I rode hard and fast to the palace, then again to come to you with all speed. My horse is exhausted. He can bear no rider.

Of course. I am most grateful for all you have done for us, you and your fine mount.

A bolt of lightning flashed beside the carriage. Thunder shook the ground. The horses screamed and reared. The carriage bounced and swerved. Tied behind, Darol’s horse stumbled and whinnied in distress. When the horses grew calmer and responded to their driver, the carriage once again moved forward in the darkness.

Palora looked down at the tiny bundle in her arms. I am amazed she still sleeps.

Yes, especially since in this downpour we must raise our voices to be heard. Dariana turned to Darol. How is it the Vancor enter Estaron on two fronts? Such a thing has never happened before. She glanced at her maid. May you speak in front of Palora?

Yes, Lord Talan directed me to speak freely in her hearing because according to him, he fought a smile, she would find a way to listen anyway.

Palora’s mouth and eyes flew open. She could think of nothing to say. He spoke the truth.

He flashed a wide grin. I believe Lord Talan meant to compliment, for he spoke of her fierce loyalty to you, my lady.

She is indeed loyal. Dariana smiled at Palora. She has also been my lifelong friend. Now please tell us what you can.

The Vancor are clever deceivers. They use temptation to seduce the proud, or those with selfish hearts, to join them.

Dariana nodded. Yet, to those who know the teaching of the Elandara and obey the words of The Golden Scroll, such temptations are known for what they are.

True, however, in recent years, greater numbers choose not to obey. Those who fall victim to these dark temptations believe they can acquire and control more than the life of obedience to the Elandara offers.

Lightning struck ahead of the carriage. Engulfed in flames, a large tree near the road twisted, split and hissed steam as its bark blew off. The horses panicked and pounded through the darkness. The carriage swayed and tipped.

Inside the carriage, Darol threw himself onto his knees before Dariana and Palora. He pulled them both close to keep them and the child from injury as the carriage lurched from side to side. The horses did not slow until they left the flames far behind.

Darol resumed his seat. Ladies, forgive –

We thank you, Darol, for your protective embrace. You offered yourself as a shield to my child, my maid, and myself. I am grateful.

Darol bowed his head. Thank you, my lady. He glanced at Palora.

Oh, I never take offense to a handsome warrior offering me an embrace. She winked.

Darol leaned over to retrieve the fallen satchel from the floor. When he sat up again, his face still displayed a bright blush. He resumed his explanation.

Lord Talan teaches us to love the Elandara, to live by their teaching, and obey the words of The Golden Scroll. The lords of the other realms lack his diligence. Many of their people walk in ignorance, weakened.

Palora huffed. I am not surprised. The greatest responsibility of the high king is to teach the Lords of The Four Realms so they can teach their people. Our High King Salanor shows no interest in the words of The Golden Scroll. She braced her feet against the opposite side to reduce the jostling to the child in her arms. Her voice held undisguised scorn. He neglects this along with other duties. He is unworthy of his high calling.

Palora!

Scold me if you like, my lady, but I know what is true. You are a highborn lady, and Darol here is a faithful warrior. Though you might not speak out, I daresay you believe as I do.

Palora, think such things if you must, but do not necessarily say them.

Yes, my lady. Her voice indicated deference. Her face did not.

Dariana and Darol exchanged amused glances. They did indeed agree with Palora.

Darol resumed control of the conversation. We know the first command of the Elandara is to put the needs of others above our own. Now, the main interest of too many remains to gain wealth, not to be shared with those in need, but to be hoarded. Others desire to exercise power over those in need of guidance. Hearts uncommitted to the High Knowledge require little coercion to succumb to such temptations. Therefore the Vancor now possess a firm foothold where none existed before.

The carriage lurched as the wheels sank into a deep hole, then bounced over a large rock. Palora’s braced feet prevented her and the infant from being flung about. But the impact threw Dariana up and across the carriage. Her head struck the roof.

"My lady, cried Darol. Dariana slumped in his arms, a bleeding gash on her head.

The sudden jolt awakened Taleah. Startled, she cried. Palora held her close. She sang softly while she dug in the satchel with her free hand. She handed Darol a handkerchief and a small glass vial of the healing cordial.

He wiped the blood from Dariana’s face, then placed a drop of the cordial on the deep cut. The wound closed and disappeared. Dariana opened her eyes.

Are you recovered, my lady?

Yes, thank you.

He helped her back into her seat. He returned the cordial and handkerchief to Palora.

Come here, Taleah, said Dariana. She gathered her baby into her arms. Comforted by her mother’s voice and embrace, the child quieted and returned to sleep.

The warrior’s face showed weariness and concern. I am sorry for the danger and discomfort. The driver is without moonlight to brighten his way, and with the roads awash, he cannot see the rocks or ruts.

The journey is far more treacherous and miserable for him than for us, said Dariana. He is brave and skillful. We are grateful to him.

At last the carriage passed under the arches of the palace grounds. Worn by exertion and the terrors suffered in the storm, the exhausted horses stumbled into the courtyard. Darol assisted Lady Dariana from the carriage. She went at once to the horses. She petted them and thanked them for what they had endured. Their driver smiled. He loved his horses.

They cannot understand my words, she said. I hope they understand my voice and my touch. They have suffered much tonight, as have you, my brave deliverer. I am most grateful. May I know your name?

The driver bowed deeply. I am Daylgon, my lady. It is an honor to serve the wife of the great High Commander Seren.

She smiled and inclined her head to his compliment. I lay a charge upon you, Daylgon. If ever I may be of assistance or service to you or your family, I order that you will come to me and request what you will.

My lady?

She raised her hand. I am most sincere. With great courage you held our lives in your strong skillful hands for hours, and delivered us safely. What I offer is small repayment for the dangers you faced to do so.

Lost for words, the driver bowed again. Dariana turned at the sound of a familiar voice.

Welcome, my lady. We give thanks for your safe arrival.

Randual, keeper of Lord Talan’s household, descended the stairs. Taller than most elves, he moved and spoke with a dignity that belied his soft heart and warm sense of humor. His kind brown eyes shone with affection. This storm created an unpleasant challenge for those charged with your safe delivery.

Dariana gestured to Darol and the driver. We were in the best of hands.

Randual kissed her offered hand. From the day Seren brought his bride to meet Lord Talan, Lord Talan’s most trusted servant had been smitten by her beauty and sweetness. He escorted her inside.

The chambers provided for her were spacious and elegant. A fountain splashed in the dark garden. The sweet moist fragrance of new washed flowers wafted in. A cheery fire burned and a cold supper and wine waited on the table. Here was the perfect refuge after their long ordeal.

* * * * *

The morning chimes over Shondari woke Lady Dariana. Sunlight filled the chamber. She wandered into the main room where Palora cradled a cooing Taleah.

What a sweet nature she has, my lady. Though hungry, she let her tired mother sleep.

Dariana took her baby. Yes, she is sweet-natured, and so pretty. No doubt when she is older she will charm her father into anything she wants. If she inherited his adventurous spirit, they may prove natural conspirators, and we will need to keep an eye on them both.

Palora said, Lord Seren told me he and Lord Talan often got into trouble together as young elves.

Dariana laughed. Oh, I know those tales. Their lifelong friendship is why Lord Seren named Taleah after Lord Talan, and made him her guardian even before her birth.

Palora giggled. My Lord Seren told me they once caused a problem for the high king with painful results. Their fathers gave them each such a severe whipping, neither could sit a horse for two days.

"Oh yes, that is one of their favorite stories. What a hilarious adventure they had. I confess my sympathies were with the two of them, and not with the high king. Old enough to know better though, they were fortunate to escape with just a whipping."

She paused, her gaze fastened on the sky. A silver hawk had flown to the palace moments before. Now three of them streaked from the palace in different directions. Something has happened. I must find Randual.

But Randual remained sequestered in council. When finally found, he disappointed her. I cannot speak to these events, my lady. We must await Lord Talan’s return. I am sorry.

Dariana ached for news of her husband. Darol could not help her. After some much-needed sleep, he had risen early and returned to Lord Talan and the armies in the south.

I can learn nothing, Palora. Dariana paced the garden. Even Lord Talan’s daughter, Chrishana, is not here.

Well, my lady, she is a great favorite of the royal family. Perhaps she visits the citadel in Domethian.

The clatter of hooves drew Dariana’s attention. Across the balustrade she saw Chrishana enter the courtyard with her escort. She hurried to the family wing of the palace where she caught Chrishana about to enter her chamber.

Dariana, how good to see you. Come in. Randual told me of your terrible journey. I have just returned from Domethian.

Were you with the high king? Do you have news? I saw three silver hawks leave at great speed, yet I can learn nothing about their mission.

Chrishana removed her cloak. I accepted an invitation to the citadel, but I had no sooner arrived then the prince ordered my immediate return to Shondari. I did not see the king. I sensed questions were unwelcome, so I asked none. I am tired and in need of rejuvenation. Come to the Golden Pool with me.

The Golden Pool? Surely that is forbidden.

Not to me. I may enter anytime, as may my guests. Come, I have my own entrance.

Chrishana opened an ornate carved door. They descended wide stone steps. What Dariana saw took her breath away. The Golden Pool lay in a cavern, yet not in darkness. A beautiful brightness reached even the high roof.

Few ever saw this beautiful well-guarded treasure, the source of the healing cordial. Even the very air of the large bright cavern seemed to soothe and strengthen. The water shone, though not from reflected light. The golden luminescence came from the water itself. A carved stone shelf held several vessels of bright silver.

Chrishana selected one and turned to Dariana. We will fill these and convey them to my chamber. You know the golden water has the power to heal wounds, illness, and distress. When added to a bath, the bathwater itself strengthens and refreshes.

They retraced their steps. With Chrishana, Dariana emptied her urn into the large deep stone bath. The two undressed and submerged into the warmth.

Overcome with pleasure and a sense of well-being, Dariana slid deeper into the water. Her distressful thoughts evaporated in its soothing caress. Oh, this is . . . is

Chrishana sighed. Yes, this is what we needed. This will refresh us.

When Dariana returned to her chamber, she was pleased to find Randual at her door.

My lady, Lord Talan has returned and wishes to see you.

Dariana smiled and eagerly followed Randual. As she stepped into her liege lord’s chamber, Lord Talan stood at the window, staring outside. Still dressed for battle, dust clung to his armor and cloak. His long hair, the color of polished bronze, lay in disarray over shoulders that sagged as if weighed down by a great burden.

Of course, she thought. He is tired from his long ride. She hurried toward him. My lord, I am glad to see you. Do you have news of my husband?

He turned toward her. His eyes, the deep blue-green of the sea after a storm, always sparkling with joy and wisdom, now were red from weeping. Dariana had never seen him like this. He took her hand and lead her to a chair. He said nothing.

Please, Lord Talan, speak to me. Your silence frightens me.

He sighed. There is no gentle way to tell you what I must. The Vancor from the north are destroyed, but not without terrible loss. He paused. They attacked with poisoned arrows.

My lord? Dariana’s heart pounded in her chest. She struggled to breathe.

Such an arrow pierced Seren. The strength of the poison took his life before he fell from his horse. I am so sorry.

She stood. No. Violent trembling overtook her. She shook her head. No! she shrieked.

He stood and wrapped his arms around her. She struggled against him.

No! Dariana screamed again, and again, as she pounded her fists against his chest.

Talan caught her as she sank senseless to the floor. He held her in his arms, and struggled to cope with the anguish that threatened to overpower his own heart. Dariana would never again hear the voice of the one she loved most. Their child would never know her father.

He knew the pain of such a loss. Three thousand years before, his beloved wife and her escort had died at the hands of a troop of the dark Vancor. Though the most acute pain abated over time, his heart did not forget the anguish. Without pity, the pain surged forth once again, for his dearest friend lay slain, too. He wept for Dariana’s broken heart, and for his own.

Chapter Two

The Struggle

Revived and returned to her chamber, Dariana sat in a chair and stared, lost in grief.

When Palora brought Taleah to her mother, Dariana clutched her too tightly. The baby cried out. To hear her child in distress momentarily distracted Dariana from her sorrow. For Taleah’s sake she fought to remain calm while she nursed her. When her child drifted into sleep, Dariana drifted herself, not into rest, but into pain that would not ease.

The day passed unnoticed by Dariana. Her world had collapsed into a dark grey tunnel. She perceived only vague shadows, and comprehended little of what occurred around her. She uttered no words and acknowledged the presence of no one. Randual told Talan of Palora’s concerns for her mistress. Talan responded with decisive action.

Remove Lady Dariana from the guest chamber and take her to the east wing. That entire suite of chambers is to be hers. Assign the best of my servants to serve her. She is to receive every comfort. This palace is now her home.

I will see to everything at once, my lord. Randual rejoiced to know Dariana would be so well provided for. Here in the palace were those who had always loved both her and Lord Seren. Many would watch over her and her child.

* * * * *

Dariana followed Randual, oblivious to why he had come. Palora sought to interest her in their exquisite new location. Numerous chambers, spacious and elegant, opened onto stunning gardens with flowering fruit trees and fountains. An ornate balcony rimmed the entire expanse. The deep baths were high arched and intricately carved.

All of this was lost on Dariana. She saw and heard nothing. Her world, now a grey haze that only her child could penetrate, allowed for no other perceptions. Nothing reached her consciousness except the cry of her baby, the pain of loss, and the fear of her future with a fatherless child. As night came, exhaustion allowed her to sleep for a few hours.

* * * * *

Dariana woke before dawn, surprised at her surroundings. Then the horror of the prior day burst into her memory in a suffocating flood. She could not breathe. She needed air. She threw the bed clothes aside. Her heart pounding, Dariana bolted from the chamber and fled onto the balcony. She stared, stunned that the world below appeared normal.

My lady.

Dariana started, then turned to see Taleah held by a maid she did not know. Dariana took her baby into her arms, kissed her, and cuddled her close. To hold her child comforted her. Where is Palora?

Asleep, my lady. She is worn with weeping. We took care not to wake her.

Thank you. She adored Lord Seren. Her grief is great. What is your name?

Mirren, my lady.

I think I remember you from yesterday, you and another.

Mirren curtsied. Dansa and I are honored to serve you, my lady. She quietly withdrew.

Dariana carried Taleah into the garden. The sounds around her spoke of the new day as the palace awoke. To others the world remained as it should be. To her, Lashterie could never be the same again, for she could never be the same again. Part of her had been torn away, and her heart was left to bleed to death from that terrible wound.

A gentle voice invaded her thoughts. Lord Talan, my lady. Dansa gestured.

Talan crossed the garden. He smiled down at little Taleah, then put an arm around them both and led her to a stone bench.

I gave my word to Seren. Should anything happen to him, I would care for you both. I promised to raise his child to know the Elandara and to obey the words of The Golden Scroll. I am your liege lord, Dariana. But now by law, and by my word to Seren, I am also guardian to you and Taleah. This wing of the palace is now your home. My best servants will serve you. You and Taleah will want for nothing.

Relief coursed through Dariana’s heart. She was not alone. Thank you, my lord.

You are family now, Dariana. In private you may call me Talan.

I am honored. Tears slid down her cheeks. To be in your care comforts me.

Even in his grief, Talan rejoiced to know he might comfort Dariana by his provision for her and his dearest friend’s only child. Well-versed in the teaching of the Elandara, he knew the truth that comfort was the greatest healer. He would offer all of that he could.

I must return to my warriors in the south. Since both my sons are with the armies, Lord Sondar will rule in my absence. Do not hesitate to go to him. His orders are to accommodate you in every way. He smiled. And of course, Randual is your self-appointed personal caregiver and fierce protector.

She watched him pass through the door, then jumped to her feet and ran to him. Talan, please be safe. Please come back again.

Talan took her hands and smiled down at her. Be at peace. Then he was gone.

* * * * *

The days that followed her lord’s departure passed in a painful blur. Dariana seldom responded to any except her baby. Taleah was her lifeline, a touchstone against her grief. Time now had no meaning for Dariana. One afternoon the piercing single note of a mournful horn sent her whole household to the balcony. A solemn honor guard of eight entered the courtyard dressed in black, their dark cloaks like shrouds. Hoods covered every head. Even their banners hung black and lifeless.

In their midst, pulled by black horses, at a slow measured pace, rumbled a wagon. In the center of the wagon, surrounded by flowers, rode a coffin, draped in black. A shield and sword lay on the shrouded coffin. Cries of grief rose from the street. The deep tones of a slow ringing bell filled the sky above the palace. Dariana stood transfixed with horror at the reality of the scene before her. She turned and stumbled to her chamber, sobbing. Lord Seren had returned.

* * * * *

Hours later, Randual requested to see Dariana. He took her hand and bowed. There is nothing you need do, my lady. All arrangements are in hand. For some days, Lord Seren will lay in honor. Great numbers wish to show their respect.

She responded with a voice almost inaudible, Thank you, Randual. She shut her eyes against the tears that threatened the little composure she managed to muster.

He kissed her hand. I will spare you in any way I can, my lady.

I know you will. I am grateful.

When he left, Palora brought her mistress some healing cordial and put her to bed.

Dariana said, I saw his eyes. Randual had been weeping, Palora.

Yes, my lady. Many will weep. The whole city will know by nightfall.

Palora proved correct. The city of Shondari lay awash with sorrow. Wails of grief filled the palace through the night. The terrible image of the black cavalcade haunted Dariana’s dreams. She awoke often, her heart pounding, struggling to breathe, defenseless against the pain. The morning found her exhausted from grief. She suffered even more now, for the terrible scene from the balcony had seared itself in her mind.

Several days later, Dariana and her maids awoke to trumpets. They hurried to the balcony, unprepared for the sight before them. A great army advanced toward Shondari. Elves from the city raced to the palace. They lined the outside walls.

Guards poured out from the palace. They stood in formation, their weapons raised in salute. The air shook with the thunder of hooves. The approaching warriors were not from Estaron alone. These served in The Four Realms and Domethian, capital of the high king. They split their ranks to open a wide path.

Six riders rode forth into the opened pathway in the midst of the warriors. As these six drew close, Dariana gasped. Here rode High King Salanor, High Prince Katonah, and Lord Talan. Behind them rode Condril, Astara, and Senebar, the lords of the other three realms. A mighty cheer arose. The walls shook. Jubilant trumpet notes filled the courtyard and the sky above.

Dariana stared, then backed away from the balcony. She turned and walked slowly to her chamber. As the high commander’s wife, she knew what prompted such a cavalcade. The war was over. Had it ended a few days earlier, she would still have her husband. Taleah would still have her father. The end came too late. She closed her door against the exultant cheers.

* * * * *

Though the citizens honored the bright armies for the victory they secured, there was no feasting, no dancing, for Lord Seren, High Commander of the armies of Lord Talan, loved and honored above all warriors, lay slain.

The morning of the funeral, the sun hid behind thick somber clouds, as if ashamed to shine on a day so heavy with sorrow. Dariana stood pale and silent while Palora robed her in a dark gown. Her undressed hair flowed over her shoulders and hung down her back in a golden cascade beneath the black veil. Lord Talan arrived to escort her. She clung to his arm, grateful for his strength, for she possessed none of her own.

Thousands filled the courtyard and the streets, overcome with grief. The mournful crowds followed the funeral procession to Lord Seren’s grave. The resting place afforded this much-revered elf dwelt among the rulers of Estaron from ancient days; a singular honor, for great was his service to his lord and the elves of all Lashterie, and great was their love for him. When the last of the songs of praise for his deeds were sung, reverent hands lowered the coffin of Lord Seren into the earth. Soft drums played.

Clinging to Talan, Dariana approached the grave. She carried a red Terian rose, Lord Seren’s favorite flower. She cast the flower into the dark opening. Though it landed softly on the coffin, the gentle sound proclaimed the finality of Seren’s death with harsh cruelty. Talan caught her as she sank to the ground.

* * * * *

When Dariana woke, she found herself dressed in a soft blue gown, lying in her bed. The door opened. Talan’s head appeared. He smiled, entered, and poured some healing cordial.

You are awake. He handed her the goblet. Drink this. It will revive you.

Thank you. Dariana realized the time of day. Oh, Taleah must be hungry.

There is no need to worry. When you fainted, Randual secured a wet nurse for her. You will find Taleah the center of attention. I suspect she will grow up surrounded by admirers who adore her, if the behavior of the servants today is any indication.

Talan took the goblet from her and replaced it on the table. He returned to stand beside the bed. He took her hand. Today we said good-bye to Seren. He ever moved forward to lead, to teach, and to protect. That is what we must now do as well. There are those who need us.

Dariana bowed her head. Tears slid down her face. She knew Talan spoke the truth. In spite of their pain, the elves of Estaron depended on the leadership and wisdom of Lord Talan. And little Taleah needed her. She must make an effort to be strong.

Talan said, There is something I wish to remind you of, Dariana. Although you are under my roof, you are no longer a guest. You are family. You are in my care and under my authority. I will use that authority now. He walked to end of her bed and turned to face her.

Somewhat surprised at his words, she gave him her full attention. His tone and expression reminded her of Commander Kylon when he issued orders to young recruits.

You are to eat well. You are to drink copious amounts of the healing cordial. You are to soak in a bath supplemented by water from the golden pool. You are to sleep with thoughts of the love that surrounds you, and of the joy your child brings you. With hands on his hips in mock sternness he added, Do I make myself clear?

She took a deep breath, pushed aside the blankets, and stood. With an effort to match his playfulness, she swept him a deep curtsy and answered him with the reply exclusive to high royalty. I hear and obey, my lord.

He winked at her. Yes, I should think so. His heart rejoiced at her attempt to tease. A painful struggle still lay ahead of her, yet, she had taken that first step back to life. Talan took her hands, kissed her cheek, and then departed to attend his royal guests.

Dariana’s maids prepared to serve her supper while she rested in a golden bath. In response to Talan’s orders, the kitchen had sent a sumptuous feast. Surprised by the vast amount of food, Dariana said, My Lord Talan must think he is feeding one of his regiments. Palora, ask Lady Chrishana and her maids to join us. She turned to Dansa. "Send to the kitchen for more plates, crystal, and silverware. Come, you