Chapter 14

Arhyvhynne had returned to the disorienting fog of the tunnels. Before her, seated upon a throne was a grey robed figure. In fact, everything about the figure was grey: her hair, skin, eyes, even the lips. Enshrouded by the heavy, swirling mists, it was almost difficult to tell where the fog left off and the woman began. The woman looked old beyond words. "Who are you?" asked Arhyvhynne.

"I am Qhen Rhyvhelle," the apparition said to her. Legend had her as one of the original grey robes who had devised the Trials.

Arhyvhynne kneeled before the throne and bowed her head. "I am not worthy to be in your presence."

"You are more than worthy child. Rise, there is much that must transpire in the imminent future concerning yourself and the wizard."

Arhyvhynne stood, wisps of fog floating past her. "Uriel?"

"It is he I speak of. He will have great need of you and upon you he will depend. However, the Path Uriel walks is perilous. Do you choose to accompany him, even should it mean your life?"

Though the tone of Qhen Rhyvhelle did not change, Arhyvhynne somehow knew that this indeed was a grievous question. She considered it for a time before she answered. "If it were not for Uriel, I would not have my life. Yes, even if it means my life."