The Realm's Mystics [Mystic Women of The Realm Series Book 3] Read Free Page B

those in attendance, they reached out to touch her gown.
    The dance was a deeply emotional one that brought forth visions of two lovers dancing upon the stars and moon. Jandra gazed only into The High Queen's eyes, forgetting about the large audience, seeing only her Queen, “Our celebration continues, my Queen."
    The High Queen laughed softly, dancing Jandra around the floor, “With a few more in attendance than I would care to have, My Desire, but we will have the eve."
    They danced as if no one were present. The High Queen's eyes shone, seeing only Jandra. As she held Jandra to her in the dance, she felt a sudden surprise at touching Jandra's bare arm, an unaccustomed feature in the Valley. An unusual and highly seductive feeling in such a setting, The High Queen smiled, knowing that Jandra had no idea of such. Around they danced, settling into each other more and more as they forgot those around them. They danced as if they danced alone. As if they danced under the light of the stars near the lake. As if they danced with the Little Ones. Jandra's heart felt her peace and happiness, seeing only her Queen.
    As the dance came to an end, The High Queen smiled tenderly upon Jandra, then bowed slightly, never removing her gaze. Jandra bowed to her Queen, and blushed. They left the dance floor arm-in-arm as the musicians began another song. From this moment, all the others would now partake in the celebration.
    It was more than a simple dance this eve. Entertainers were placed throughout the Great Hall, gambling was offered, and small, intimate tables to enjoy the food and drink were provided. Many came to Jandra asking for a dance, but with the help of her Queen, she declined them all, until Sam approached.
    Sam looked upon Jandra, smiling sweetly, “I have to admit, Jandra. When I make a mistake, I but make a big one."
    Jandra smiled, graciously, “Never mind, Sam. From what we learned this midturn, it wasn't meant to be."
    "But I will always miss you.” She looked to her sister, “May I take her from you for one dance only, my sister?"
    The High Queen nodded, “But the final word is from her."
    Sam looked to Jandra, raising only an eyebrow. Jandra nodded, and they went to the dance floor arm on arm, as Sam had seen Jandra do with The High Queen.
    Jandra spoke to Sam softly, “I thought you didn't like to dance, Highest."
    "How could I not with such as you? You are the most beautiful in the entire Realm. Woden cries at its loss."
    "I am nothing special to Woden, Sam, and this is truth. In many ways, I am glad that I was raised to be as any other."
    They danced, Sam taking the lead but taking care not to step on Jandra's feet, “Are you happy with her?"
    "I have never known such peace as this."
    "Do you suppose it has something to do with you being of the Elfin Fairies?"
    "You sister has said as much also, just prior."
    San'lr'in'thel'ineln’ watched with interest while her sister and Jandra danced as if they were long lost lovers. She could see the tenderness in Jandra's eyes, and Sam's ever smiling eyes twinkling back at Jandra. She thought them a beautiful couple, saddened by the idea somehow. But she could also sense that they were coming to terms between themselves. The High Queen knew she could slip easily into jealousy, but also felt she could well trust Jandra. The Elfin Faeries never lied to another, and never betrayed. She now knew why Jandra had taken Sam's betrayal so harshly.
    Sam and Jandra quit speaking, dancing only to the music, looking upon each other. By the end of the dance, Sam's eyes, while yet hinting of her smiling face, shone of tears within them. She bowed deeply to Jandra at the close of the dance. Rising, she said, “You were correct, Jandra. Do you but remember? You told me that our paths would cross throughout the remainder of our cycles."
    Jandra placed her hand upon Sam's cheek, “Become who you were meant to be, Highest. I would have only stood in your way."
    Sam kissed Jandra lightly