* * *
Far away in her keep in Belyndril, Ernayn watched the battle in the Stone of Elya. “Drive the beasts into the ground,” she directed the wind storm. It obeyed.
“Why did you help them?” asked Quesha.
“I have my reasons,” replied Ernayn. “And, Quesha, be aware of Tesnayr’s movements.”
“Yes, mistress.”
“I have business elsewhere.” Ernayn wrapped a heavy cloak about her and disappeared leaving her student alone with the stone.