The Light so Divine

Danger Zone

A tremor passed through Avalon. He shot his head up from the desk he was hunched over. Slowly, he looked over to Linda. She was already staring at him, her eyes wide. The two gazed at each other intently in silence for a moment. Finally, the elder druid spoke. "You felt it too?"

Linda nodded. "Something in the past has been changed. But I can't pinpoint what exactly."

"Maybe the glowing book is the change?" A sudden, soft Texan drawl pointed out. Linda spun around and saw Lisa standing in the doorway of the Manor library. Lisa smiled gently and walked over to a shelf, pulled out a brown, leather-bound book and handed it to Linda. "I'm pretty sure books don't glow Lin."

Avalon stood and walked over to stand by Linda and looked at the cover of the books. On the front in gold were the initials V N-T. Avalon took a deep breath. "Well, open it."

Linda gently turned the book open to a random page. Paper worn with age and delicate cursive writing in dull black ink greeted her. Avalon began reading over Linda's shoulder.

My dearest friend, Linda;

How I wish you could be here with me in Jarlaheim. You would love it here, though I know you probably won't come for many years. There are so many people here, along with Jon Jarl himself. It is truly an amazing place to be. Since arriving here two weeks ago, I have befriended the Huskarl to the Jarl; Count Gunnar Thrymson. He is such a lovely man, and I think you'd get along with him.

Lisa narrowed her eyes lightly. "You don't think?" She asked tentatively.

Avalon shook his head. "I don't know. I'll continue reading."

Oh, my darling sister of the moon, you must do me a favour. When you finish reading this, please go to Fort Pinta, and head to the tomb. Do you know that big old tomb past the Abbey and in the moorlands? Go to that one and pay tribute to our oldest founder. He will be so glad to see you again.

Please do not worry about me. I'm receiving good training here, and am more in control of my power than before. However, my brother, the tall, dark one with ginger hair that you don't like, is pushing me and I can't seem to escape his control. His wife Kat is not much better. I do feel bad, speaking illy about them though. They've helped me when no one else could. I do hope to see you again one day, without my brother or sister-in-law with me. Just like old times.

Your beloved friend,

Victoria Nilsen

Linda gasped lightly. She looked at Avalon with hope. "It's from Vic! It has to be. The dark brother she mentions, with ginger hair that I don't like? That must be Darko, and Kat must be Katja!" She flipped to a later entry and began reading.

Well, it has happened after all. Lord Thrymson has asked for my hand. I accepted. Of course, I accepted. In a way, it was my duty to accept. But I admit that the Count has grown on me. I fear that I have grown too attached to him as a friend. I don't dare think about the other possibilities.

Oh my dear, I am also quite frightened. I know how his story ends. He has even told me about the witch he encountered, and about how he cannot be struck down by a mortal hand. You and I both know what is to happen soon. My visions have grown stronger, and make no sense. How do you stand it? What do I do? I'm sure I'll find out one day. Oh, how I wish you were here with me.

Forever your friend, and sister;

Victoria Nilsen

Avalon closed the journal and placed it gently inside a satchel. He ushered Linda and Lisa out of the library. "It's time to do some research on Lady Thrymson and to revisit the Jarl's tomb. This should be an interesting delve into history."