Chapter 17

"Why are you awake at this hour, Mistress?" Ghemella questioned in a surprised voice.

"Why are you here at this hour, Ghemella?"

"I was sent to inform you that the Council requests your presence."

"Now you know why I am awake at this hour." A hint of a smile was on Xenyssa's lips.

"I will tell them you are coming then?"

"Yes, thank you. I will be down momentarily."

Ghemella left the white robe's room. She wondered about Xenyssa. The Guardian thought she was a very mysterious lady who knew entirely too much.

Xenyssa entered the Chamber and went directly to Arhyvhynne. She knelt before the High Witch and offered her blessing. The white robe rose and gave Arhyvhynne a small smile. A moment later, she moved to Eyrmysse and spoke words of solace. Then she seated herself on the bench at the far end of the table.

Arhyvhynne spoke softly, barely audible above the crackling of torches. "I am sorry to have you awakened at such an hour, but as I am sure you know, there are a great many changes taking place." Xenyssa nodded her understanding. "We have requested that you be here so that we may offer the vacant white robe Council position to you. We would be honored to have you with us and," she added as an aside, "I want you to know that our vote was unanimous."