The Seven Discs of the Gods

Part I     Bituitius
Chapter 1.
 
 
Like a giant snake in slumbering sleep the Severn lay tame and peaceful in its meandering form across the fertile land that had belonged to our Dobunni tribe for generations and generations past.  What a beautiful sight it was, the reflection of the rays from the setting sun dancing off its gentle ripples as if they were indeed golden scales of a serpent!  And how green the fields and pastures that flank the moving water, shaping its course, being milked by its life-giving crystalline fluid with its source from the distant hills.  The river could no more separate from the land it watered than the land could live without it.  Between them, the bonds had been forged as they shared a common fate.  Only when they were so locked together, each giving grudging recognition of the necessity of existence, could they attain the state of moving greatness, much like the relation between the tribe and my kind.  Yes, for without us the Druids, the tribe would be just lost souls wandering in the world they called Life.  Without the tribe, we would not have the reason to exist.
I took a deep breadth as such thoughts rippled through my mind.  I knew it was not I, Bituitius a Druid, that had given forms to these thoughts but that it was nature speaking through me, that another tiny window that allowed me to glimpse at the infinite universe had been mercifully opened.  In gratitude, I took out a crumb of bread from a hidden pocket and with both hands broke it into small bits, offering each to the gods and goddesses that ruled the sky, stars, earth, hills, forest and of course, the mighty Severn, all deities honoured by our community in Marmesse.   They had smiled upon Marmesse; our town just north of the river, made our lands fertile and ensured our crops grow.  They had put strength in the arms of our warriors and fire in their hearts. For all these, it was right for us to make our tokens of gratitude. It was my job to do this and to mediate between our people and the spiritual world.
 
We needed their favour now more than ever.  With most of our able warriors following our leader Cu Ciann and his son Ogmo aiding Chieftain Bodvoc against incursions by the Durotriges in the south we were almost defenseless. Anxious eyes were turned towards the other direction where rumours of imminent attacks from Orgetorix and his Silure had been in the air for the past seven days.  
I had urged caution for Cu Ciann to leave the hill fort so sparingly defended.  But Eugenix, the other druid who had been my rival all these years for the spiritual leadership of the clan, had urged the great chief to take up the challenge.  Our great chief had been known always to honour his word and we had indeed made an alliance with Bodvoc last year.  He had placed his bet on a speedy victory and the threat of our vengeance to deter any temptation on Orgetorix's part.   So, the mighty band of warriors departed, leaving the protection of womenfolk and children in the hands of the handful few left behind under the leadership of Nemetona, the second daughter of the great chief.
Ah, how could I describe Nemetona?
 
Just calling her beautiful would be an insult of the rudest sort.  No, she was more than that.  While her eldest sister Sirona would remind our people the peace and harmony of a placid lake, and that of her younger Eporedia a freshness of morning dew, Nemetona seemed the personification of the might of Brenn, the fire god!  With her reddish hair that tailed after her in rides and hunts, she cut a striking figure in any band of warriors as if a phoenix among crows.  She could outride most of them, certainly beat them in chariot races, shoot straight and handle more than a few best hands with swords and axes with her long blade.  Her laughter was hearty and full of the vigours of youth.  The gods and goddesses had been generous and bestowed on her a body that should only be possessed by immortals.  Even now, when her image began to form at the back of my mind, I felt the natural urge of all men, the desire, the lust and the immediate suppression of them through the most difficult of efforts.  I knew she understood my feelings for her but she had brushed it aside as if the effortless movement of her elegant hand to be rid of the nuisance of a dragonfly that had the nerve to take a closer glance at her lovely face. True, she did not detest me and even found my company welcomed as I had taught her much about what the warrior class was not normally led to know.  At the same time, she had made it quite plain that a long lasting union was out of the question.  I knew not the reason.  May be she already had her eyes on someone else, younger, more dashing or at least free from the heavy duty of a Druid on whose shoulders rested the burden of the past, present and future of the tribe.  The only thing I knew was there was a different kind of fire in her eyes, igniting her secret dreams that she would rather keep to herself.  She did once mentioned her aspiration for greatness and would rather live a short and glorious life than an old and boring one.
I sighed.  As a druid, I could understand the cycle of life on a higher level than the average warrior class.  It was true that our life was but a short journey in an eternal cycle but this was no reason to throw life away as if it was something without value. For this, I was powerless to convey into her senses and somehow, I felt I was fighting a losing battle with the weaver of Fate.  I almost heard the mock of their laughing.
 
I was just about to descend from the top of the hill where I could have a bird’s eye view of the river and Marmesse when I noticed someone running along the bank of the river.  By instinct, I sensed something ominous and of the most urgent sort.  I was right.  The man fell exhausted before he reached the bottom of the road leading up to the hill-fort.  Others ran to his aid and before long, the blow of horns calling urgent council could be heard echoing round the rolling hills.  
 
I did not even have to get down to know the meaning of the horns.  The Silure army was already on the march!
Chapter 2
 
The situation was grimmer than I thought.
When I reached the hall where the High Council was to meet and decide matters of state, the horror of the villages that had bore the blunt of the Silure attack was in full circulation.
They had put to the sword all able-bodied men and either slain or carried off all females and infants into slavery before torching the whole village.  None were spared and the bodies of slain warriors lay alongside those of old folks and unwanted dogs.
We had beaten them two years ago and they were bent of revenge and this was their golden chance.
“Take up your weapons.  Let us teach them a lesson they would never forget.” Cynan, the most fiery tempered young warrior was favouring resistance.
“No!. There were too few men left to do the fighting.  We must protect our women and children from the blades of the Silure…” It was Govan, the veteran of many battles who was calling for caution. “If we make a stand, we would all be slaughtered.”
“So, you are afraid to die?” snorted the younger warrior. “Is there no fire in your blood?  Or have you lost too much of that on the bed of your woman?” the remark brought laughs from the crowd and Govan’s face turned dark red.
“Are you calling me a coward?  I dare you accept my challenge to fight to the death!  And I will personally fling your bones the dogs!”
The scene was becoming ugly.  It seemed that we would have bloody fighting even before the Silure horde would show their faces.
“Come, now.  Both of you. “I decided to intervene. “Stop this nonsense.  It is no time for personal bawls.  The fate of the clan is at stake and we know Govan is right that we cannot hold them with our forces at hand.”
“So, what do you want us to do?  Bow to Orgetorix and beg him to spare us our lives?”
“Of course not. I would say we should send our messenger with the fastest horses to warn our great chief and then we as a whole should head towards the direction from where the relief force will come…”
“And abandon Marmesse and our honour without even a proper fight?”
 Nemetona, followed by her young brother Tirix, pushed herself through the crowd and stood before me undaunted.  She was magnificent in her armour of boiled leather that gracefully outline her tempting torso, following its ups and downs in curves that sparkled the imagination of many young warriors.  Her thighs and well tapered were bare and she wore sandals made from leather thongs.  She carried no weapon, as such was not allowed to be brought into the Hall but that absence did not make her any less of a war-goddess.
I was speechless, not so much at her argument as her beauty.
“And you think we can have a chance if we stand and fight?” Govan was not so deterred.  Though he respected the chief and his daughter, his years of experience gave what he said weight.
“We cannot. But it is still beneath the honour to flee for our lives without a fight.  You can value your life as you like and herd the young and elderly towards the whatever safety.  For me, I have chosen to stay.”
“But Nemetona, perhaps Govan is right this time…it is foolhardy to think you and the handful can withstand the onslaught of the Silure.  Your position as daughter of the chieftain may not offer much protection.  It may even add to the factor of danger as the Silure would certainly crave for the head of a beautiful warrior princess.”  I also felt the heat on my face, as deep inside I knew the reason why I chose the Govan’s side.  The thought of the possibility of losing her in battle was unthinkable to me.
“And noble Bituitius, are you suggesting me that I shall barter my warrior’s honour for a few more years of life in shame?  What is death anyway?  Is it not in our code that it is better to die and be reborn as a more powerful and valiant warrior? “
I lowered my head.  I knew it would be useless to go into deeper argument.  She was determined to stay and no one would be able to dissuade her.
“Then, I will stay and fight beside you.” I offered.
“No!  You are no fighter and besides, your station does not permit this.  A Druid’s chief responsibility is to ensure the tribe and its tradition’s survival. You have the knowledge, which must be protected and therefore must go. "  She replied.
I knew she was right for I would be the last remaining Druid of my school and I had to pass on my knowledge to ensure the teaching of my noble master would continue.”
I had no intention to let the school represented by Eugenix who advocated the use of Dark Magic to achieve power to become the only voice our people could find spiritual guidance.
“But…”
My protest was cut short.  
“Bitutius.  There is no more time to fight over this.  You must do your duty and lead the old and young towards the safety that will be offered by my father’s army.”
I nodded.  But it was sad thoughts to leave one who had been haunting my many summer dreams to an uncertain and risky fate.
She must have sensed what I was thinking.
Coming close, she whispered into my ears. “I promise you will see me again, Bituitius.  And who knows, I may grant you your most secret desire then.”
I looked in surprise at her offer at this very unlikely moment.  What was she suggesting?  And what use of it if in all likelihood, she might not survive.
I was just to add further remarks but she was ready to lead her Tirix and her other followers out to prepare the necessary defense.  I had only time to wish the beautiful daughter of Cu Ciann a sad farewell

Chapter 3

We gathered the young and the old and headed first towards the dense woods that would at least give us some cover.  From there, we made our way towards the direction where the great chief had taken his army, praying that he would be forewarned in time by our messenger and came to our rescue.  I also prayed for protection of the gods for my beloved Nemetona.  The Silure must have reached Marmesse now and a bitter battle would result.  Nemetona had agreed to hold on just long enough to sustain the tribe’s honour and give us a chance to cover as much distance as possible and if the danger of being overwhelmed arise, she would call a retreat and make a stand only if rear-guard action was necessary.  Still, my heart was burning with worry as I knew her was strong-willed and might be tempted to take on more than she could handle and refuse to grasp her last chance to escape.
I could not envisage what would happen if she fell into the hands of Orgetorix. Throughout the land he was famous for two things: his good-looking face and his cruelties to those who dared oppose his path.  Whole tribes had been impaled for doing less than what Nemetona was trying to do.  To resist his force with a mere handful would be more than a challenge.  It would be a grave insult that Orgetorix would be unlikely to forgive.
We walked all night without pausing for rest.  By the next morning, we could hear the sound of hoofs thundering near us and we knew they could not be Nemetona and her men.  We had not left so many horses behind for those who chose to stay and fight..  So, Marmesse must have fallen.  Our hearts sank both at the immediate danger and the thoughts about Nemetona and her followers.  I ordered the few warriors who had been assigned to escort us to form a protective ring.  Not that it would be of use if they Silure decided to press in an attack as they enjoyed an absolute majority.  Still, I had to try my best and leave the rest to the gods.
The first rider appeared, followed by more behind.  
I tightened the grip on my staff.  But then there were cheers among our people as they recognized Ogmo, the eldest son of the great chief.  Our messenger was successful in finding the great chief and he had immediately sent three hundred warriors towards Mermesse.  Sirona, the most loved of the great chief’s offspring by our people, was behind him, followed by Eporedia, the youngest.
“Is that you? Bitutitius?” it was Eporedia who asked.
“Indeed. It was I.” A sudden heat was felt on my face.  Seeing Eporedia here made me think that I had abandoned her sister to a dangerous position.
“And where is Nemetona?” her face was getting pale.
“I do not know, my Eporedia. She had chosen to stay and fight…”
The young daughter of the chief did not wait for me to finish.  Turning the head of her mount towards Marmesse, she gave a yell and the mount sped through the trees. A score of warriors hurrried after her.
“Shame on you, Bitutius!” Eugenix cursed he pulled down the hood that had covered his face.  I had never liked that face.  His dark eyes were deeply set and the nose was that of a hawk.  His lips were thick and though he wore a long beard, it could not hide a protruded chin.  Something on it told me that this man harboured nothing but evil design inside.  Yet he was powerful and had accompanied the great chief on many campaigns.  Some said our enemies feared him more than the weapons of our warriors.
I looked at him in the eyes.
“There is nothing I do that is unbecoming of a druid.”  
Eugenix was about to further challenge me when Ogmo stopped him.
“Let us not waste time now.  We should make full speed towards Marmesse.  May be there is still hope.” The son of the great chief did not wait for our reply but spurred his steed in the direction which Eporedia had taken.  
I was lent a horse and joined in the rush towards Marmesse.
We would never forget the tragic sight that greeted us on our return. As we rode back into Marmesse there were the scattered bodies strewn around of the warriors that had stayed behind, most without their heads.  The headless torso of the young nobleman Tirix was a sad sight.  Stripped entirely naked, the young man was beheaded in front of a kiln.  To my relief there was no body of Nemetona to be found. However, her broken sword was discovered and this might mean that Orgetorix had taken her captive back to his Silure homeland by the River Wye and I must anguish at her fate.
Barely had we had time to take in the sorry spectacle when Cu Ciann appeared.                                        
 
Silently and with great sorrow the army stood around their great leader. Recent triumphs were forgotten as solemn faces took in the awful massacre. Ogmo had dismounted at the spot where his young brother was butchered.  He knelt by the body of Tirix and covered it with his cloak.  Then turning towards his warriors, he vowed that this would not go unpunished. .  We knew Ogmo enough to know he always kept his words.  We also knew he was patient and could wait till the most opportune moment to make good his threat.  The most urgent thing to do now was to bury the dead and rebuild Marmesse so that life could go on as before as quickly as possible.  Casualties had not been high and the town would quickly get back to normal but for the wounded and helpless.  In a day or two punitive parties might be sent out to scout the border and several Silure villages would undoubtedly be burnt down in retaliation.  But for now, we must take care of things more pressing.
I cared nothing about this.  All I could think of was the condition of Nemetona.  I concentrated my mind and forced myself searching the middle realm where the recent dead were kept wandering for the crossing into the dark domain.  No, I did not sense her presence there.  So, she was still alive, at least for the moment.
   

Chapter 4
Life returned surprisingly quick to normal.  The dead were taken away and buried, the wounded attended to.  The first fire was rekindled by the chief Druid and passed round the compound.  Soon, house fires, never allowed to go out except in extreme calamity, were burning like tiny yellow dragonflies in high summer all over the place.  Even laughter was beginning to be heard.  Great though the bereaved families were for the sons and daughters they had lost, their spirit could never be chained down by any reverse of fortune.  Life, and hence death, was but a connection link in a never ending cycle of which beginning and end no one, including the wisest Druids, can really understand in full.  So, why grieve over a passing link.  That did not mean they would forget the blood of the dead of course.  Tomorrow might bring a call to arms and the Silures would feel the wrath of our crave for vengeance.  But tonight, it was a time for mead and stories of heroic deeds told around the campfires and after that, the pleasure of the flesh inside their dwelling huts.  
 
There were exceptions to the rule, of course.  
 
I received the summon from the great chief just as I was to turn in for the night, my heart still weary for the dangers Nemetona might be undergoing at the moment.   It was Eporedia who delivered the message.  Unlike her eldest sister Sirona and Nemetona, Eporedia did not have the captivating beauty that would command the attention of anyone who crossed his or her path.  Sure, the magnetism of Sirona and Nemetona was different in nature.  While the former was of calmness and wisdom, Nemetona was the personification of beauty in power and motion.  If Sirona could be compared to water and Nemetona to fire, then Eporedia would certainly belong to the element of wind.   Nothing seemed able to bind her and even when standing, her free spirit soared.  Those cropped hair and intelligent eyes magnified even more her indomitable nature.  Her body built was comparatively small with a height that could reach only my shoulder blades.  Despite that, her body was well contoured and could turn the heads of many fine lads as she walked past, causing many young and fiery hearts to quicken their pace of pumping blood onto their lust-filled heads.  She was also the undisputed best horsewoman of the clan, apt for her being named after the great goddess of the horse- Epona and a first rate slinger, capable of bringing down any sparrow well beyond reasonable range.  This she seldom did though as she had a kind heart and never took delight in harming any innocent soul.
 
"I will be at the Great Hall in a minute." I told the girl with starlight in her eyes of hazy blue.
 
"No, Bituitius.  We are not to go there.  The meeting is to be held somewhere else." her voice was a soft whisper now, something rare with her.
 
"What?  But why?" I was about to utter my surprise when she closed in and whispered something into my ear.  My brows tightened into a frown.  It was unusual indeed for the meeting to take place at the Holy Spring in the depth of the woods.
 
I was about to ask further when she placed a finger to seal her lips and hushed me into silence.
 
I felt even more puzzled.  Why such secrecy?  But I knew better than to pursue, as all would be clear by the time I showed up at the meeting and I could certainly trust Eporedia with my life.
 
Without further ado, I followed her in the direction that would lead me to the sacred spot.
 
The sacred spring was a place known to very few in the clan and even fewer had come here as it was off limit but to the selected few.  As successor to the chief Druid I had come here from time to time to mediate and draw my strength from the magical qualities of the elements.  
 
I was not surprised to see Sirona there.  Apart from being the beloved first daughter of the chief, she was also one of the prophets of the clan and was fully entitled to enter the place.  And so was it with Eporedia, huntress and bard at the same time.  What I could not understand was that the meeting included only the three of us.  Eugenix, the chief Druid, was noticeably absent.  
 
"Well come, Bituitius."  Sirona's singing voice greeted me as I approached the most holy spot, a rock covered with green moss, and placed a small offering on its slippery surface.
 
I nodded my acknowledgement but my eyes scanned the face of the lovely sister of Nemetona for the true meaning of the exclusive membership. I also noticed Eporedia had her sling in hand and was actually standing guard on the perimeter of the spring, her eyes on ends to listen for the slightest sound of possible intruders.
 
"No, Eugenix was not notified."  Her eyes could penetrate the veils of others' hearts, it was true.
 
"So I noticed, noble Sirona."
 
"Does this trouble you?" she offered a disarming smile.
 
"A bit.  But I am sure there is a reason for it and I await your enlightenment."
 
She nodded, her smile dissolving into an expression of solemnity.
 
"Bituitius, can you tell me why the Silure attacked us?"
 
"But that happens all the time between the clans...the Silure were notorious for their love of plundering..."
 
Sirona shook her head sadly.  
 
"You could be right, Bituitius, if our clan was weak and easy prey.  But we were not Bituitius.  Orgetorix knew the might of our warriors and he had little to gain but for a dangerous enemy.  True, we might not be strong enough to destroy him completely but what had he to gain but to burn down a few houses, slay our beloved brother and take my sister as captive.  Orgetorix is not a fool, Bituitius.  He would not do this just for an urge to hack."
 
I knew she was right but could not make out the reason why Orgetorix did just that for no apparent gain.
 
"And our noble Sirona would allow me to know the reason why, I am sure."
 
Sirona sighed.  
 
"Yes.  Orgetorix attacked because it was the only chance he could lay hands on this...." from a hidden pocket on her white robe, she took out a round thing the size of pounded out round bread.  It was ancient in appearance, possible of bronze with a strange motif on it.  "Do you know what this is, my wise Bituitius?"
 
I had to declare my ignorance.  Wise though a Druid might be, he could not claim to know all secrets of the universe.  I certainly had not laid eyes on such things before though I could feel its magical properties even at a distance of ten feet or more.
 
"This is one of the legend bronze discs of the Gate of Underworld."
 
My heart nearly jumped out of my mouth!  So, they really existed.  The legend had been sung of the old times where the gods and goddess of Good battled the forces of the Evil for so many generations by countless bards, of the terrible struggle and the almost inevitability of defeat.  Then, the seven most powerful gods and goddesses made a terrible weapon and vanquished their foes.  But the weapon was so horrific that even they were fearful of it.  Since it could not be destroyed, it was locked into an unknown valley.  To prevent anyone from retrieving it, they had made seven keys in the form of discs and scattered them among different tribes.  The keys were magical and could bring fortune to the tribe who owned them, this would ensure that no tribe would be ready to part with it and guarded it with greatest secrecy, thus ensuring they would not come into the hands of one single person as the consequence of one possessing such power was unthinkable!
 
"Noble Sirona, are you sure?" I knew I should not doubt her but the shock was just too great!
 
She was not offended.  Gently, she leveled her palm and let the disc rest on it.  I thought she was letting me hold it but I was mistaken.  The disc "awoke"!  With a strange blue light that originated from its center, it gradually left her palm and floated in mid air, turning faster and faster.  Then I realized what it was doing.  The spring water had risen with the speed of the disc, the originally quiet brook had turned almost into a small fountain, and still it rose higher and higher!
 
"This, is the disc made by the Goddess Axona, the goddess of waters.  It is this disc that kept the Severn tame all these years, bringing in bountiful harvest to our tribe."
 
"So, the Silure had failed to find it?"
 
"No, they did not know it existed." Sirona replied with a sad smile.
 
It was more puzzling than ever.
 
"What they took was the other disc: the disc of Belisama; the goddess of fire and forging of finest weapons." As she was explaining, she pressed her palms onto the two sides of the discs.  The blue light went out and the water subsided
 
"You mean our tribe had two discs?"
 
She nodded.  "The disc of Axona was a great secret, known only to the Guardians of the discs, a dowry from an ancient union with one clan of the Brigantes who was unaware of its importance.  Even Eugenix did not know it existed though he knew about the other."
 
I began to understand.  "So, you suspected he had betrayed the secret of our tribe to the Silures."
 
"We could not know for sure but there was one sad clue, the way Tirix was slain."
 
"What?"
 
"He did not fall in battle but was executed in front of a kiln, the very one where the disc of Belisama was hidden in to provide the necessary power for the fire to make the kind of weapons that helped our warriors gained victory after victory.  It was protected by a magical spell, one that would need either a secret chant known only to me to break or another sad way..."
 
I waited for her to finish.
 
"...By offering the blood of one of noble birth, one that had just attained manhood but had never spilled his seed...a virgin male...."
 
The awesome truth hit me in full blow!  So, that was why Tirix was tied and beheaded.  He had just reached manhood two days ago!  And he was renowned for his purity; many blossoming maidens had tried in vain to seek the favour of his first night.... And it turned out to be the reason for his doom! And I would not be surprised if Eugenix knew about how to break the seal.
 
"So, what were we to do?  We can tell the great chief to attack and get the disc back."
 
"No.  That would not do.  The Silures were also strong and there was no sure victory.  Besides, we could not let the other tribes know of our secret.  Possessing one disc could become the object of envy.  Known to possess two would be inviting disaster...unless one was determined to get all seven."
 
Sirona must have seen the ashening of my face.  The thought that someone would open the Gates was striking fear into our hearts even now.
 
"But.... but we still had one disc.  If we guard that well, the Gate would not open, right?"
 
Sadly, Sirona shook her head.  
 
"No, at first all the people believed so.  But the gods and goddesses were not without their greed for power.  It would take only five to do the trick, though which five nobody knew.  The Silure had one disc and now they got another.  We must prevent them from getting three more."
 
"Ummm...that is trouble indeed.  Do they know where the other discs are? ":
 
"They, and we, know two of them.  One is in the land of the Demetae; another is kept by the council of the Druids in the sacred island of Mona.  I do not know where the other two are. "
 
"So, what were we to do?" I asked.  I knew she summoned here for a purpose.
 
"I want you to go and find out where the other discs are and prevent them from falling into the hands of Orgetorix.  May the Gods have mercy on us if that happened."
 
"But, why me?"  I suddenly felt a weakness in my knees.  Though I was proficient in the world of magic and spells, the task was impossibly huge for my capability.
 
"Because you are the only one that I could trust.  Will you help me, noble Bituitius?" her voice was pleading and it was impossible to turn away from such pleads.
 
"But...what about Nemetona?  She was still...."
 
"Nemetona would be safe.  If Orgetorix was to harm her, she would be dead by now.  But he would need her to decipher the secret of the disc."
 
"And she knows about it?"
 
Sirona nodded and my heart sank.
 
"Bituitius, you and Eporedia must leave.  We would declare you have eloped with my sister and joined the outlaws and give order to hunt you down...in this way, the others will not become suspicious of your true motive.  We must keep this in the strictest secret.  So, are you willing to risk your life for the safety of the clan, and for the whole humanity?"
 
It was a daunting task but one that left me with no choice.
 
"When do we start?" I asked.
 
"Now." Sirona nodded in gratitude.  "And, Bituitius, be careful.  The forces of Evil are dangerous."
 
I nodded in thanks for her advice.
“And take this disc with you.  Its force would guide you to the others” Sirona handed the precious disc into the hands of her sister who put it safely into a hidden pocket.
 
I stole a last look in the direction of the hill fort where I had lived most of the time since I was born. . Then we made for the cover of the woods amid the hooting of an owl.
Ch

Chapter 5
 
I followed Eporedia down the holy path from the sacred spring and into the woods, which were the sanctuary of the great earth mother whose disc we were to search for in the land of the Demetae. We came to the clearing where the horses awaited us and once again I glanced fondly back at Marmesse, the hill fort where I had spent my entire life and I wondered whether I would ever see it again. I mounted my horse and together we rode away from the sacred oak trees that surrounded the holy place.
Though calm by nature and by reputation a great thinker with a clear mind I was now in a state of terrible confusion. The story of the discs though known to me had hitherto been a matter of legend. To be confronted with it as a reality was so difficult to absorb and comprehend. I must accept the discs do exist for had I not seen one with my own eyes and I must also accept that it is my duty to help Sirona and Eporedia and perhaps indirectly my beloved Nemetona. The saving of my people and perhaps the whole of humanity was a daunting task to set before a man who though maybe wise was no man of action.
At first I thought the objective would be to search for the two missing discs the whereabouts of which were unknown. Eporedia however favoured heading for the land of the Demetae to try and secure the third disc. The Demetae lands bordered the lands of the Silures on their western boundary. She felt that to be the right course of action for surely that would be the next disc that Orgetorix would seek and we must try and beat him to it. The enterprise was daunting in the extreme for we would have to pass through Silure territory to reach the Demetae lands, a journey that would be fraught with danger and that was just the beginning. All these thoughts were passing through my confused mind as we left Marmesse in the distance-heading west.
We decided to take a route following the mouth of the Severn as it passed along the southern coastland of Silure territory. This would eventually bring us to the open sea and the Demetaes. We did not wish to venture inland into the dense forests and lofty mountains for this would be a more hazardous and inaccessible route. However we will have to negotiate the dangers of the Silure capital at Caerleon. It was about thirty miles from Marmesse and we hoped to arrive by dusk and barter for the necessary supplies for the remainder of our journey. As we passed by the forested southern approach to the notorious Wye valley a stronghold of Silure bandits we encountered our first danger but not from the Silures.
I rode my horse a few paces ahead of Eporedia and I stopped suddenly as I heard a rustle in the dark forest undergrowth. The sight of two pink eyes staring at me made my heart pound. I recognized the animal immediately and there was no more dangerous beast than a disturbed boar. I shouted an alarm but it was too late.
The huge monster crashed out of its cover and rushed headlong at my mount. A small horse was no deterrent to a wild boar of that size and when the collision came I was thrown high off my horse. I hit the ground banging my head the breath smashed from my body. I lay there unable to move but could only look up and see Eporedia standing over me with her short, deadly sword in her hand. Then as the mists gathered in my head I passed out.
I must have been unconscious for a while for when I came round my face was in Eporedia's hands as she looked down anxiously at me.
"Thank the gods I thought...” the words never came but her eyes spoke everything needed to be said. She stoked my face tenderly. I looked at her and for the first time came to appreciate the beautiful face at such close distance.  It was different from that of Nemetona’s, being less dazzling on first impact.  But something else was there and I recognized it at once  --- strength that arose from great courage and determination, and a loving heart.  We were so close to each other now.  I could feel the warmth of her breadth now; her breathing quickened as our lips barely touched.  
"No! We have work to do we cannot…" Her protests were so weak that she could not have believed it herself.  When I wrapped my arms around her shoulder, she did not even attempt to recoil.  I could feel her soft body against mine, shivering from fear, fear of being refused, or being accepted and committing an act of betrayal to her sister.  I kissed her tenderly, our bodies melted into one and I could almost listen to the wild pounding of her heart as I held her body tight.  And we just held close and listened to the sound of the sing of rain.  Both of us knew we could not give ourselves away to the fire of passion.  Just to nudge close, helping each other to drive out the cold and the unspoken fear of the unknown.  And of our true and what we really were.  It was a long time before we were able to release our hold and breathed freely.
I went up and looked at my dead horse, its body ripped open by those enormous tusks and its innards hanging out. That could have been me. I looked at the skewered dead boar, a victim of Eporedia's sword and I knew I owed her my life. The boar would have had a great time gnawing my lifeless body.
"Eporedia" I said but she stopped me.
"You would have done the same for me", she rapidly replied.
"Get up behind me, we are soaked and need to reach Caerleon by nightfall. We need lodgings, supplies and another horse before we can undertake the final leg of this journey.
I realized for the first time that it was pouring and I was wet through.  I jumped up behind her and put my arms lightly around her waist and I could smell the sweet scent of her body and I wondered if my head had received permanent damage. For the first time as we passed through the outskirts of Caerleon it dawned on me that while I had loved Nemetona from a distance perhaps Eporedia had harboured feelings for me. What a complicated world this can be. These thoughts however had to be put to one side for now we must negotiate the dangers of the Silure capital. We must go unnoticed as two travelers a Druid and his companion going about their business.
 

Part II  Eporedia
Chapter 6
 
Bituitius and I passed over the surprisingly wide and well-constructed wooden bridge made of fine elm to enter the settlement of Caerleon. I marveled at the Silure craftsmanship for I tended to consider them as nothing more than vicious raiders. The bridge spanned the waters of the mighty Usk River, a river so important as the lifeblood to this lively Silure town. The Usk was a swift flowing tributary of the Severn and I realized how difficult it might have been to cross if we had attempted a different route upstream. Caerleon was the residence of the Silure head chieftain the aging Gutuater. It was believed by most that his days were numbered and that Orgetorix the Silure warleader from the Wye valley band would eventually seize power. However if Orgetorix ever succeeded in possessing the discs then his ambition would be much greater than simply being able to grasp the leadership of the Silures. We must make sure that would never happen.
Bituitius was holding my waist with an almost frightened grip. I supposed now my feelings for him were clear but I must put them aside and concentrate on the mission. That was far more important than my fanciful desires. He did not suspect that I had a wound on the underneath of my left thigh, a tear caused by the tusk of the wild boar. The sooner it was cleaned and bound the better. However for now I dressed myself as a Druids apprentice and with my short hair I would pass for a boy. We would draw less attention that way and as such we begun our entry in to Caerleon.
The town was in comparative darkness as the light had faded but lanterns glowed from many of the rounded wooden dwellings and we were soon able to find decent lodging for the night. A travelling Druid and his young companion fortunately roused little suspicion. Once inside I requested water and cloth to bathe my wound and clean it. Bituitius was very upset that he had not appreciated my growing distress on the journey due to the wound and wished only to make amends.
I sat on the animal furs that covered one of the sleeping areas while he insisted on cleaning the wound. The man I had longed for was at my feet tending to me as best he could. The same man that loved my sister but I had to discard all this from my mind. Tenderly and meticulously he cleaned the gash as if trying to make up for his earlier oversight. I watched him almost lovingly doing his work and I knew that it was not more than just remorse that was his motive and I began to feel so aroused.  I blushed as I could feel a wetness at some part of my body. He would not look at me perhaps from fear of consequences for he knew as well as I that things must not be further complicated and that the mission was everything. He tore a strip from the bottom of his cloak to tie around the wound and then I felt his trembling hand touch my thigh and then swiftly withdraw.
Goodnight Eporedia", he said as he almost rushed to the other sleeping platform at the far end of the room we occupied. Though the wound was sore I was relieved that it was not serious. I looked across at Bituitius and I wondered if he was asleep. Then the tension between us was overtaken by much needed sleep after that long and arduous journey from Marmesse.
I awoke to find it was daylight and Bituitius was just about to go out. "Get a bit more rest", he said, "I am going out to barter for supplies and to purchase a new horse".
Grateful for more rest I thoughtfully watched him leave. My leg was stiff but a quick look at the wound showed to my relief that there was no infection. I was fine to continue our travels.
Bituitius returned after an hour or so looking a bit tense.
"Eporedia I think we should leave straight away", he said frowning. "I have the horse and supplies but I feel uneasy because I am sure I was being watched. Also there is talk that Orgetorix and a group of a hundred warriors are camped ten miles north of Caerleon. They may well have the same destination as us in mind".
I nodded my agreement and we left hurriedly and to my relief Caerleon was soon left well behind. It seemed that we had done our business, had our rest, safely in the Silure capital. But five miles out from Caerleon the path ahead was blocked by three riders.
"How did you pay for the supplies", I inquired of Bituitius
"By blessing their holy mistletoe with divine water so that it would function as an instrument for their good fortune and a few items of jewelry", he answered.
"And were you watched", I asked.
"Yes", he replied, "and they look like the watchers".
We rode on until we faced the three riders.
"Let me talk to them and take care of it", Bituitius said unconvincingly.
I was less than sure and kept my hand on the hilt of my sword as he moved two paces forward but I feared my wound would slow me down.
"Greetings and the blessings of the Earth Mother be upon you", Bituitius said pleasantly but I saw his hand inside his cloak resting on his sturdy oak rod. One of the riders a somewhat dirty and ungainly individual with red eyes and a scruffy beard came forward and roughly said, "I will take that, pointing at the bag hanging around the neck of Bituitius's mount. He then raised his sword and had he not hesitated, Bituitius would not have been able to defend himself and I could not have saved him. Fortunately even the meanest thief would not kill a Druid easily and he did not expect the response he got. Bituitius swung the heavy carved rod into the thief’s midriff even as he pondered on whether to strike. Both Bituitius and the thief fell from their horses in the flurry of action. The second thief jumped from his horse and drew his weapon. . Bituitius was on his feet now, holding his rod to defend himself attack from two directions.  And the third one was spurring his mount to join in.  Bituitius would have no chance against three of them at the same time.
I could take on any one of them if my leg was unhurt.  Being as it was, I would become more of a liability than a help.  Still, I recognized that something, anything had to be done to save us from this predicament.  I reached for my sling and locked a pebble onto it.  The third man saw what I was trying to do and shouted a warning.  I was quicker though and a shot sliced through the air and knocked the first thief between his eyes.  His eyes opened wide and fell with a curse, then lay still.  I was not sure if he was just wounded or dead and I did not have the time to find out as now Bituitius was being attacked by the two remaining thieves.  I locked new shots and let go but this time, they were prepared.  One ducked unharmed while the other deflected it with his sword, sending the pebble flying back at my direction.
“Watch out!” Bituitius shouted.
I did not need him to warn me.  The returning pebble was lethal and if I was hit in the head, that would be the end of our quest.  I shifted my body weight to one side, forgetting that the other leg was hurt and could not balance me as under normal circumstances.  The horse neighed and unsaddled me, though it was well trained enough to avoid crushing on my wounded leg.  Still, I was out of action for the moment and could do nothing but to stare in horror as the two of them closed in for the kill.
Needless to say, we both knew they were not common horsethieves.  They were too good.  The swordplay and the co-ordination would take years of training and working together.  Bituitius was having trouble to fend off the alternate waves of attacks now and it would not be long before one such attack got lucky.
I struggled to my feet and loaded another shot but I knew it would not be easy to dislodge any one of them.  One reason was Bituitius was in the midst and I did not have a clear field of shot.  Bituitius recognized that too and sweat was running down his temple as his attackers stepped up the frenzy of killing cuts.  One of the attackers was smiling in my direction, showing his yellowish teeth.  I shuddered as I read his mind of what kind of spoil he was expecting to get when he won.  
Then, Bituitius did something, which surprised all of us, me included.
Instead of parrying an attack, he flipped the rod the other way round and pushed it into the other hand of one of the thieves, the hand that was not holding the sword!
“Are you crazy?” I was close to tears.  What was he doing?
But he was far from being crazy.  The two attackers had been relentless with their well co-ordinated attack.  The two swords were like the two powerful limbs of a giant spider, striking and defending in perfect timing.  The addition of a rod into one of the thieves’ arsenal of weapons was totally outside the expectation of the attackers and caused a temporary confusion.  The cadence of attack was broken and they sought to disengage themselves as one tried to let go of the rod.  It only took two seconds but that was more than enough for me.  One attacker uttered a cry as a stone banged against his left temple.  He slumped onto the ground and lay stiff.
Bituitius was unarmed now but the remaining attacker had lost his nerve.  Making two feign cuts, he quickly disengaged and ran for his horse.  He never had the chance.  Bituitius kicked up his rod and made a stunning blow between the man’s shoulders and he collapsed from his saddle onto the ground.
"I thought you were not a man of action", I said smiling.
"When the situation calls for it", he replied smiling back and holding up his shaking hand, "Later I will have to pray to the Gods again for our deliverance.
We decided it would not be wise to stay longer to interrogate our prisoners, though we had no means to determine if they would ever be able to talk again.   We mounted our horses; Bituitius took over one from the gang, and galloped away as quickly as possible and made good time still following the bank of the mouth of the Severn.
“Who are they? Silure?” I finally asked Bituitius when we had put enough safe distance between us and the possibility of more attackers.
Bituitius was deep in thought and it was quite some time before he answered me.
“No.  They were not of the Silure hordes.  They were sent by someone who would know about our mission and did not want us to succeed, obviously.”
That was obvious enough, but it did not answer my question.
“Epi,” he had begun to use that shorter form to address me.” How often were you attacked by boars in the rain?”
I shook my head.  Boars were dangerous, of course but unless they were hunted or antagonized, would seldom charge.  My eyes shone up.  Now things began to make sense. We had barely left Marmesse when we were attacked by that boar!
Bituitius nodded as he urged his mount forward at a trot.
“Yes, Epi. Someone from our tribe would like to make this a very short trip.”
But now the land on the other side of the great estuary was no longer visible. This meant one thing we were leaving Silure territory and entering Demetae land.    

        
Chapter 7
 
From the open heath of the Silure country, we entered into the dense woods of the Demetae.  In silence we rode among the gigantic elms and tall ash trees, picking our path carefully among the lines and lines of ancient wood that had guarded this land for countless generations.  The air became more and more oppressive as we ventured deeper and deeper into the heart of the maze, the canopy of green reducing the amount of sunlight that was allowed to penetrated through the foliage while a strange mist was drifting across the undergrowth giving the place a creepy feel.  We held our direction to the west, as this was the only way for us not to get lost in this vast expense of green. an increasing difficult thing to do as each tree seemed not so different from another.  Both of us knew if we really got lost, it would be ages before we could hope to find a way out, if at all.  
I reckoned that we had not ridden for more than two hours at the most but the vegetation had become so thick and the visibility had fallen so low that it would not be wise to proceed for the rest of the day.  Bituitius chose a spot beneath a giant elm where we dismounted and made ready for the night.  It was getting cold and we were worn out.  Bituitius and I gathered some woods and fallen leaves and piled them up.  Before long, a friendly campfire was burning and I nudged myself against a cavity at the foot of the elm and drifted into sleep.
When I woke up, it was already totally dark overhead.  I looked around and there was no sight of Bituitius.  A sudden panic seized me as the thought of being marooned in this desolate spot crossed my mind.  Fortunately, Bituitius became visible at that moment when he pushed away some scrub and came forward with our dinner- a full-grown hare.  
I put the creature to permanent rest, saying my prayer for the release of its soul and then set on the task of skinning it and roasting it over the fire.  The tempting smell of the meat multiplied the sense of hunger to a hundred fold and soon, we were enjoying our hearty meal.
"You surprised me."   I turned to him. " I thought you only feed on fruits and berries."
He smiled as he licked his fingers oiled by the sizzling meat.  
"Let us say I am a very practical vegetarian."
We both laughed.  The echo ranged through the forest and was distorted to grotesque form when reflected by the trees.  We fell silent again. and looked around.  No one was there but we both had a feeling we were being watched by a thousand unseen eyes.
"Have you heard anything about the Demetae?"
I nodded.  "
The Land of Demetae was sparsely populated but possessed great wealth of precious stones.  Yet such tempting object of raid never attracted any serious intrusion by other tribes.  Some did try but apparently was not successful. Some said they were ambushed in the thick woods without knowing who the deadly archers were.  Others speculated horrifying magic.  In any case, none of the invading army returned to tell the tale.  They simply vanished without a trace."
"Yes, that was what I was told too, when I had my apprenticeship under my old master." Bituitius looked around him and I followed his path of screen.  There was nothing except trees and a carpet of mysterious fog.
"Did you hear anything?"
I strained my ears.
"No. " I was puzzled as I was proud of my hearing and was certain that if Bituitius could hear something unusual, I should have picked that up even earlier than him.
"Precisely." he was even more pensive.  "There was not a single sound.  What kind of wood is that?"
My hairs stood on ends.  It was indeed a creepy place!
"Bituitius."
"Yes?"
"It is spinning."
"What are you talking about?" he looked at me as if I had lost my mind.
"The disc.  It is spinning." I plugged my hand into the hidden pocket and took out the disc and sure enough, it was spinning, faster and faster.
"What does it mean, Bituitius?"
We felt it before he could give me the answer.  It began as a tiny jolt of the ground, followed by another one, just minutely more noticeable.  I turned to him and we registered the same thing in the other's eyes.
Fear!
The jolt had become a kind of hollow rumble now.  Something under the ground was moving and it was moving fast!
"Epi! Get mounted and run!" Bituitius sprang to his feet and rushed to the spot where our horses were tied.  We only had time to untie my horse before we saw in horror what was making the commotion.  A huge worm, at least three rods in width, reared up its ugly head and came charging in our direction, its mouth wide open, showing its rows of razor sharp teeth!
My horse bolted just after Bituitius swing himself up my saddle.  The second horse, the one we took from the thieves, were neighing in sheer terror, its rein still fastened onto the trunk.  Much as we wanted to, we knew we could not save her.  We heard the death cry and I was foolish enough to turn my head, just in time to see the horse being snapped into halves by one closing of the hideous mouth!
Bituitius must have felt the shivering of my body.  We knew by now where the invading army had gone to!
We spurred our mount into blind gallop.  There was no direction of flight as any direction that could place us a step further from that creature was taken.  But we knew it was still behind us.  We could feel it from the trembling of  the ground on which the hooves of our mount landed.  It was coming for us and it would not stop until it got us!
"Do something, you are supposed to be a Druid!  Make a spell!" I pleaded.  I was not afraid to leave this world but no one, however courageous, would be willing to face such an end.
"Just hold tight!" he bellowed and kicked at the side of the horse to put it to even greater speed.
"Smite it with lightning or something!"
"I do not know such spells!" he shouted into my ears as the sound of rushing wind threatened to drown out his words.
"What spells do you know?" I was becoming desperate.  The worm was moving at great speed and worst of all, it knew the ground while we were like two blind ants.
"To make crops grow better, to find honey....”
"No!  Find some more practical!"
"They are practical!"  He protested.
I could not believe it.  He was surely very helpful.
But it was not the time to fight the battle of tongues.  We were riding uphill now, towards thinner tree lines.  We were betting on the worm not going to follow us out of the woods.  
We were wrong!
It was persistent in its pursuit of meal!
"Damned!" Bituitius cursed as he suddenly found out we had made a wrong turn and was now rushing up towards the side of a cliff.  He reined in and tried to turn the horse around.  But we were trapped.  The monster had blocked our only route down the slope and was now inching forward, confident of a fine dinner.
"What are we going to do, Bituitius?"
He turned the horse around and urged it towards the edge.  It was a sheer drop of at least two hundred feet to the icy current down below.
"Can you swim?" he demanded.
"No!" I answered.
"Good.  Neither could I!"
Without waiting for a further comment from me, he gave a sharp kick to the side of the horse and the next moment, Bituitius, I and the horse were in midair, our limbs moving wildly as we made our free-fall.  The drop seemed to take ages and when it was about to end, my eyes opened wide in terror at the huge boulder on the riverbed that was looming larger and larger and about to crush my skull and spill my brains on it!
"Fulmitius grantinius...." I heard some strange chanting from Bituitius who was falling at the same speed.
Just as my head was to make impact with solid rock, a bright light exploded and the rock was gone and my body, our bodies, struck icy water!
He had made the rock disappeared!
"Very practical indeed!" I said to myself.
That was the last word I remembered before passing out.

Chapter 8
 
I opened my eyes and found myself starring at the high ceiling of some room.  A fire was burning somewhere near as I could hear the creaking wood in the flame.  There was a firm and clean-smelling mattress supporting my body and my head was resting on soft pillow scented with lavender.  My clothes were all gone and I was aware of my nakedness beneath the sheets while my limbs were free to move around indicating my status of a guest and not a prisoner.  I tried to get up but the dizziness in my head forced me to slump back onto the bed when two young maidens dressed in pure white linen entered the room preceded by their merry laughter.  They were a bit surprised and certainly delighted to see I had come around and one placed the back of her hand against my brow and nodded in satisfaction.
“Your fever is gone.” She smiled and said.
“Fever?  Did I have a fever?” I could not remember anything except the plunge into the icy water.
“Yes. And you had been in this state for three days now.”
“Three days?” My mind was so confused. Then, I remembered Bituitius.  
“What had happened to my companion?” I asked meekly as I had no strength to get up.
“Do not worry.  He is in the best of health and is being entertained by the Queen.”
“The Queen? What queen?”
“ By our Queen.  Alicia, Queen of the Demetae, to whom we serve as handmaids.  She rescued you from the river along with your friend. Do you not remember?”
I shook my head.  No, I could not remember a thing about that though I was much relieved to learn Bituitius was unharmed.
“When can I see him?” I asked “And my clothes…”
“They were cleaned and being hung out to dry.” The maidens assured me.
I was about to pursue further about the disc when someone else entered the room.
She was the most strikingly good-looking woman. I had ever laid eyes upon Her face was kind of oval in shape with a pair of large, clear hazel colour eyes that spoke of an intelligent and confident mind.  The cheekbones were high, as was the nose with a well-shaped chin to complement the sensuous lips. Her blonde hair was pinned neatly behind her head with a brooch studded with seven beautiful precious stones of the highest quality.  But it was her body that captured my attention most.  I never knew a female body could be so temptingly beautiful. Scantily covered by silk of sapphire blue, every part of her body was exactly to the right proportion: the breasts, the waist, and the well-tapered legs… And she was aware of the power she held sway over others through her charms.
I knew I was looking at the Queen.
“So, you have finally woken up.” She sat down beside my bed and placed her hand on my wrist.  Her voice was as enchanting as her body.
I merely nodded and fixed my eyes on her all the time.
She did not take that as offence and her face broadened into a captivating smile.
“What happens to my friend?” I pursuit
“He is well, taken-care of by my handmaids.” She assured me.
I blushed despite my attempt to remain calm.  I could see easily how Bituitius could be so content in such company.
I was about to ask more but she placed a finger on my lips.  
“Rest now, my little one.  We can talk later. “
“But I ….”
She kept on smiling at me when she placed her hand over my eyes and murmured something.  In less than a few seconds, my eyes grew heavy and I fell into a deep sleep.  
I did not know how long I slept this time.  I just felt someone holding my shoulders gently and a heavenly drink was dripped into my dry throat, a most soothing feeling then arose from my stomach and rapidly extended to every part of my body.  I felt safe and relaxed into sweet sleep again.
When I woke up again, my strength had been totally restored.  To my surprise, even the wound in my leg had completely healed.  
The maids came in, smiling and deferential as they helped me to dress.  Instead of the tunic and riding breeches I was used to, a silk gown of creamy white was pulled down over me.  When the maids had finished their tying the sash and a number of knots, one of them upheld a full-length mirror before me.  In it I could see a “me” that seemed so much a stranger in my own eyes.  One of my shoulders was bare, and so was a large part of my upper bosom.  The soft silk clang to the contour of my breasts and revealed a deep cleft between them.  Golden sandals were placed under my feet and a coronet with small emeralds was put on my head.  I was not very comfortable dressed as such but I must admit that even I liked what appeared in the mirror.
After I was properly attired, I was led out of the room.  A feast was being organized and music was in the air.  We passed the open ground between the compound where my room was in and the lofty grand hall situated at the center of the hill fort.  People were smiling at me, masses of flowers being placed along the path I took so that the fragrance would guide me to the hall.  I was somewhat bewildered by such reception.  After all, I was just a poor thing that got chased up by a giant man-eating worm and dropped into an icy pool.  And these were my rescuers to whom I owed my life. Why such civility and honour?
Before I could find clues to solve the puzzle, I was ushered into the grand hall itself.  Alicia was sitting in the center at the far end, beautiful as ever in her royal robe.  Bituitius was seated to her right.  He looked fine to me but the expression on his face was weird, to say the least.  Then, it was the nobles and warriors, being served by beautiful young maidens.  Three slave-girls, wearing only white gauze light as feathers, were dancing to an exotic melody.  
Alicia beacon me to sit by her left when she noticed my entry.  I looked across the table at Bituitius.  He kept his silence but from his eyes I could see that something was wrong and he was using his brain fast to get us out of it.  If he could.
The dancing was finished and the slave-girls retired.
Alicia stood and made a speech in the local tongue, which I could pick up only a few words.  
“What is it about?” I lip read to Bituitius who seemed to be following what was being said.
“The Queen has announced her wedding…” he was lip-reading back to me.
“And…”
“And the consort is…..”
“Please do not tell me it is you…” I stared in his direction but he was listening hard.
“No.”
I breathed a sigh of relief.
“It is YOU…” His facial expression was almost comic. “The Queen is going to marry you!”

Chapter 9
 
I sat uneasily in the exotic boudoir that they had given me. Never had I been surrounded my so much luxury as I had in these last few days. During this time Bituitius had hammered out a deal with Queen Alicia. For the most part I had sat in silence, almost in a trance staggered at the part I played in their plans. Bituitius's reassuring glances and the knowledge that the stakes were so high had prevented me from protesting at the part I had to play. Now I contemplated the agreements reached. The earth disc which had belonged to the Demetae together with a very precious and very magical ring had been stolen from Queen Alicia by a daring thief who had fled into the infamous labyrinth underneath this Demetae town. Alicia needed the power that this ring gave her to maintain rule and control the tribe's protector the rather frightening earthworm, which we had already encountered. Bituitius had agreed that we would follow the thief's path of flight into the labyrinth to recover her disc and ring and in return Alicia would let us borrow her earth disc for our quest.
Alicia had to marry before the age of twenty-five otherwise the nobility had the right to challenge her rule, she was just a few months short of twenty five. Part of the deal was that I would marry her on our return from the labyrinth, a brief ceremony before we continue our quest in the Western Island. The school of magic she was practicing was entirely contrary to the Druid faith and hence Bituitius was immediately ruled out as a candidate but there was no rule against her marrying a person of the same sex so it had to be me. As there was a powerful rival waiting in the wings no one from her own tribe dare accept the dubious honour. All this was weighing heavily on me and I was worried. I worried about the ceremony. I worried that to my surprise I found her body tempting. I worried that she had for the most part kept Bituitius and me apart and most of all I worried about the labyrinth which we were to enter tomorrow. We had to act fast, as a marriage would not keep a dangerous pretender quiet for too long.
 
The handmaids who had taken care of me the day before came in and handed me a most refined piece of garment which I put on without a murmur, leaving my shoulders bare and revealed much of my small breasts. I looked in the mirror and I was amazed how good I looked. My heart beat fast for I was not so naive as not to know what the Queen wanted. Was the pounding, fear or desire? I was not sure.
I was led to the Queen's chamber and the door was closed behind me. I had entered a room more beautiful than any I had ever seen. Amidst the luxury Alicia was lying on a large couch covered with pink velvet and she was almost naked except for her jewelry. A large amethyst hung from her neck; she had gold chains around her ankles and wrists and on the index finger of each hand a ring encrusted with a huge diamond. More breathtaking than her jewelry was her body. She was very beautiful; her skin was soft, her eyes stunning, her long blond hair hung down her shoulders, her body was slim and taut and her breasts ample and ripe. I felt my heart flutter.
"Naked but worth a small fortune", she smiled. Her smile helped to light up the candle lit room. I could feel myself falling under her spell and was powerless to resist.
"Sit down next to me, my little one", she smiled.
I moved over to her and sat warily down next to her. By now my heart was pounding as if to leap out of my body.
"Relax, my pretty flower", she said as she undid the sash of my gown which slipped from my body slowly until I was as naked as she was.
"You are shaking", she said.
"I am nervous", I replied.
"Don't worry, my little flower", she purred and began to run her brush through my short black hair. When she had finished she placed her soft hands on my shoulders and eased me down so I was lying on my back. Her fingers gently began to caress my breasts.
I sat up and asked, "Is this the price I must pay for the discs".
She laughed, "there is no price just pleasure. Behind me now her full breasts were pressing against my back and her hands were cupping my breasts. Then again I was on my back submitting to her ministrations and marveling at the pleasures she was bestowing. Now Alicia's mouth was on my breasts and my nipples were being licked and I felt the hardening at her touch. The pleasure was exquisite. Her mouth was now all over me my toes, my fingers, my lips then exploring my body. Then she leaned down to give me the most intimate kiss of all. The wetness between my legs was warm against my thighs but something in me rebelled.
I shouted "No", and my hand blocked the entrance of her tongue.
"Please let me love you Eporedia", she pleaded. "You are so beautiful, my perfect little flower, please".
I saw the desperation of this incredible woman and realized maybe for the first time just how beautiful I was. "I can't", I said firmly.
She recovered her composure, "Bituitius?" she asked.
I blushed "Yes, How do you know?".
A weak smile appeared on her lovely face, "Remember, I am also a woman. I simply know."
I blushed a lot more.
"And does he reciprocate your feelings for him?"
"He loves my sister who is far more beautiful", I replied.
"Then he is not as wise as he pretends to be", Alicia said loudly. "Look in a mirror girl. Really look. Everything about you is perfect, your slender body, your pretty face, your lovely small firm breasts. You are beautiful. And what is more, there is a fiery spirit beneath this skin.  You are the rarest gem I have ever laid eyes on.  And he will find it out someday too.".
"When you return from the labyrinth", Alicia said, " I will teach you something that would make him worship at your feet.”
"I am not sure I want him at my feet", I replied. I was grateful for her saying "when" and not "if".
"Silly little one, what I mean is he will be anything you want him to be. For he is a man and though strong on the outside on the inside very pliable." She winked and I laughed.
"Eporedia", she said, "will you come to my bed tonight?"
I shook my head sadly.
"It is such a pity", she smiled. "But I am your friend always remember that and I make no demand that you do not wish to fulfil. "
"Thank you.  I will be eternally grateful."  And I was.
She reached under the couch and pulled something out and handed it to me. It was a flat box with a heavy object inside.
"What is it?” I asked.
"You can examine it later.  Remember to take it with you into the labyrinth," she said, "when the time comes you will know what to do with it.  Be careful, my dearest.  The labyrinth is a place of evil.  I was once there when I was small and I knew how it was inside before...."She paused as if speaking of it would bring something sinister to the room. "Go now my little flower and sleep well.  I will await your return."
I sensed I had found a true friend. I thanked the beautiful Queen and left her chamber

Chapter 10
 
The labyrinth was actually an abandoned mine.  From it, priceless gems had been extracted that had contributed to the building up of fabled Demetae riches.  People still talked of the days when sapphire as big as a quail's egg was considered a common find and emeralds the size of a child's fist was not unheard of.  But those days had gone ever since the Thing made the place its lair ten years back.  No one knew exactly what the Thing actually was as no one who had encountered it came back alive with eye-witnessing report.  Miners began to disappear, one by one at first, then in small groups until none dared venture into the hundreds of tunnels that would take them into the heart of the mine even with the threat of the most horrible execution.  The mine was finally closed down and a huge gate of heavy oak, reinforced with iron sheets, was erected at the entrance, not to stop people from going in, but to prevent what was inside from coming out.
 
It was a dismal morning.  Angry grey clouds forewarned the coming of a torrent anytime.  Not very encouraging signs to begin such a daunting task.
Bituitius and I had a light meal.  The possibility that it might be our last probably lingered in his mind as much as it did mine.  And we ate in silence.  I reached inside my hidden pocket and felt the cold metal of the thing the Queen had given me last night.  I had learned how to operate the cleverly crafted handles and knobs by now and hoped it would really help when we were to go inside.
Finally, we finished our meal, filled our sheepskins with clear water and made our way to the cursed gate.
The two guards on duty opened a secret side door for us to enter and promptly slammed it shut after we set our feet inside.  ��"Open the hatch and call us if you come back.?"
From the tone of their voices, they did not believe there would be any possibility of that happening and we were as good as lost.
 
The tunnels gave out a foul smell of unknown nature.  It was also pitch black.  Bituitius took my left hand and cast a spell. A tiny glow of blue appeared at the tip of my index finger.  It was only a very small source of light but enough for me to look around.  What I saw did not help to raise our spirits much.  A dark deep shaft led us all the way down with no end in sight.  There were also side tunnels leading to equally unsure destinations.  We knew these would branch out to more and we could easily lose our direction and become part of this macabre catacomb.
 
��"Shall we move on?" I asked, half hoping that he would suggest turning back, though I knew this was really not a viable option.  
��"Wait." Bituitius made a face and opened the bundle at his right and took out some yellowish substance which he scattered around the spot.
I also noticed there was another pouch at his left and it was not still like the other one.  Something alive was inside.
��"What is that?"
��"Our life-line." He even managed to smile.
I did not ask for more details as I had already become very uncomfortable with the place and wished to get it over with what we set out to do. We descended into the shaft.  It was even deeper than we thought and when we finally got to the end, it forked into four different channels.
��"Now what?" I turned towards Bituitius.
He pulled out something from his lap.  The Water Disc immediately hovered above his palm
��"The second one to the left." He said and took the lead.
��"So, she had given it back to you."
��"Of course, how else could we locate where the other disc is?  Besides, the Water Disc cannot help her much.  What she needs is the Ring."
The foul smell was getting stronger and stronger now.  It was so bad that I felt I would throw up anytime.  Yet Bituitius pressed on and I had no choice but to follow.  I certainly had no intention to be marooned at this wretched spot.
More forks more diversions.  I had lost count of the turns and was beginning to worry how we could find our way back.  Bituitius seemed unperturbed and kept dropping the yellow substance now and then.  Was it some kind of marker?  But how could we find them in such dim condition.
We took another turn and suddenly the place opened into a vast cave.  The ceiling also rose higher above us, relieving us of the feeling of being trapped as it did in the tunnels.  I looked in total amazement at the sides of the cave on which man-made scaffolds had been erected long ago.  Obviously it was a major excavation site before.
"Watch out!" Bituitius cried out and in the flash of a second, his hand gripped my wrist and pulled me back.  I looked where I was about to step and cold sweat ran down my spine.  In my eagerness to study the scaffolds, I had failed to notice a huge bottomless pit inches away.  I threw a pebble down.  There was no sound of its hitting the bottom.
Bituitius cast another spell and the glow at the tip of my finger shot through the open space that was the pit to the other side.  There was a landing at the other end but the gap in between was too wide for both of us to jump across.
We decided to go along the rim of the pit.  We walked on into other tunnels, taking the disc out now and then to make sure we were on the right track.
The foul smell was becoming almost impossible to withstand now and I was about to shriek when Bituitius grabbed me and covered my mouth.  To the left was a small cave.  With the small glow of light, what we caused our hairs stand on ends.
On one side of the cave was a small mount of human skeletons, the bones and the skulls piled onto each other forming a macabre pyramid.  At the far end, something was hovering in midair and beside it was a glittering light.  We knew we had found the Earth Disc and the ring!
But what captured our attention lied in the space between us and the hovering disc.  It was at least twice the height of Bituitius, who was by no means a short in height.  The scales sparkled in the dark, sending off ominous warning for any intruder that had happened to reach this point.  We followed our gaze to the gigantic triangular shape that was the head.  We were starring at a coiled python of at least forty feet long!
We held our breadth lest any sound, no matter how small, would awake the reptile from its slumbering sleep.  A panic ran in my stomach and told me to turn back at all cost.  But the disc at the other end was too much a temptation.  We could not abandon now.  
To go around the serpent and climb up the cliff to get the disc and the ring would be madness.
We looked at each other in the eyes.  
What must we do now?
A sudden idea ran through my head and I took out the metallic thing.  It was round in shape with a metallic point at one end.  I looked up at the ceiling.  It was around an arrow's shot and there was a gap of a yard or so between the rock and the head of the python.  
It was risky but I had no choice.
I took aim and pressed the small knob on the side.
The pointer shot out, a thin silver thread trailing behind it and the next moment, the pointer hit solid rock.  Tiny hooks mushroomed out and embedded themselves into the ceiling with a light click.  We glanced back at the python and held our breadth.  It did not show any sign of being awaken.  I took a deep breadth and made the starting run.  It held and I felt my body being catapulted into mid air.  The flight could not have lasted more than a few winks of the eye but to me, it seemed to be years.  I sensed passing the python so close that should it smack its forked tongue, it would ensnarl me with it and landed me into its mouth as a trapped prey.  I willed myself to swing onto my target, knowing that I would not have a second chance.
And I did it.  My landing spot was well chosen and the disc was within my reach.  I snatched it without hesitation and then proceeded to take up the magical ring.  It was much lighter than I thought and its golden surface radiated a glow that was enticing.  I smiled at my success and it reflected on the shiny metal. But, there was something else I saw there. I froze.
A pair of green eyes was starring at me from behind!

Chapter 11
I could feel my blood freezing in my veins.  I could not risk a back spring now, as it would certainly devour me in midair.  And my arm became more and more aching with each passing second.  Anytime now, the python would make its move and there would be no escape!
“Go! Epi! Now!” I heard Bituitius shouted.
I closed my eyes and swing back, expecting a sharp cut into my body by its probing fangs.  Instead I heard a loud crashing sound.  I opened my eyes and saw the python turned, distracted by the noise.  The original hill of skeletons had now littered the whole area, skulls with empty sockets rolled all over the place.  A big boulder was in the place where the pile of bones used to be.  Bituitius had hurled that with a spell and caused the monument of bones to collapse and that confusion gave me the brief break, which allowed me to make hair-splitting escape!
I landed back on the spot where I started and was still shivering.  But the python had realized it had been tricked of its prey and in anger, it turned and uncoiled!
“Run for your life, Epi!”  And the next instant, he sprang in front of me and back-tracked the way we came from.  I used one more second to retract the metallic pointer from the rock and saw it shot back into the metallic device and turned to run.  The hissing sound of the python was behind us, picking up speed as its full length was released.  I could almost feel the brush of its tongue against my back; its scale gliding along the walls of the tunnel we had chosen to flee.
“Bituitius, it is behind us!  What should we do?” I was desperate, as I knew it would not be long before I collapsed onto the floor, out of breadth and be sucked into the python’s stomach as a worthy meal.
Bituitius was not answering.  He just ran at the top of his speed.  I recognized the route now.  He was leading me and the python back to the cave with the bottomless pit!
“It is no use, Bituitius…we could not stop it there!”
What was he doing? Had he gone mad!?  We would not be able to cross the abyss but it, with its length and strength would easily spring across and get us!
Yet he ran on and I had no choice but to follow.
Finally we made it to the cave, panting.
 “Use that.  We would swing across.” The hissing sound again became closer. “Together!” he added.
I shot the metallic pointer to the top of the ceiling and fixed it in place.  Bituitius grab it the handle linked to the wire with one hand and my waist with the other and together we jumped forward.  I was not sure if the device could hold both of us together and it would be a long drop if it could not.  
The wire held and we landed on the other side.
But there was no other escape path.  We were trapped!
The python slowly moved into coiling position opposite to us.  It did not hurry, as it knew it had cornered us.
“Bituitius, it will spring against us..”
“Epi, shoot it in the eyes with your sling when it jump…”
“But…”
“Do as I say!” He bellowed.
I took out my sling with trembling hands and locked two pebbles into place.
The python unlashed its attack, flying straight at us as it used its tail to push against the rocky wall behind it.  
“Now!”
I let go and the two pebbles went straight for the eyes.  The python saw them coming too and slid shut its eyelids, my pebbles bounced off, eggs against an iron pen!
“We are dead meat!”  I thought.
But Bituitius was smiling.  
“Tetus Plumbia!” The druid cast his spell with his rod.
I knew that spell.  It was not a lethal one, just turning their heads momentarily into heavy lead and used mainly to turn dozing sentries into more deep sleep so that one could sneak around them.  The spell could only be cast against one whose eyes were close shut!
A dark purple beam found its target on the spot between the closed green eyes and the next instant the head of the python was turned into greyish lead!  If the serpent was on the ground, that spell could do nothing more than just stopping it for a brief moment.  But it was in mid-air and the head, heavy with tremendous weight, led the plunge into the dark abyss, bringing the whole length of it back to the place where it should belong.  
We did not hear any sound hitting the bottom.
We sat down and tried to adjust our breadth.  When this was done, we used the same device to cross the pit.  I clang to Bituitius tightly as if the python might rise from the pit anytime to hunt us.  
When we reached the other side and I retracted the pointer, I looked at the multi tunnels facing us.  Now we had got what we wanted, how could we find our way out of this maze to the gate?
Bituitius knew my thoughts but he did not seem to worry.
He led the way for a while until we reached a point where five tunnels led to different directions and there was no way we could identify which one we had used before.
“Bituitius…” I hoped the Druid was not just pretending to be calm.
He smiled and opened his bundle and handed me something.  I held it close and saw what it was- cheese.
I was about to ask him when I saw he opened up one compartment of the pouch on his left.  A tiny mouse appeared inside his palm, which he then placed carefully on the ground.
The mouse scurried away, sniffing.  We followed it for some way and then found it nibbling at something inside one tunnel.  Now I understood why Bituitius kept on dropping the yellow stuff.  He led me along the tunnel and after some time took out another mouse and sent it along when we were confronted with multiple tunnels again.  It worked and sure enough, our little friends guided us to those leading to upper levels.  
“How many mice had you brought along?” I asked.
“Enough.” He smiled and said, sending another pathfinder ahead of us.
Finally, we saw the gate now and my heart leapt with joy.
“Bituitius, you are really a cunning old fox!” I kissed him.
He did not evade my lips, as he must think he rightly deserved a reward.
“How do you know the mice will follow the cheese path?”
“Simple.  I only took along very hungry mice.” The druid replied.
We were at the gate and opened the hatch as was instructed.
“Hey, let us out! We are back!”
No answer!
Where did the guard go?
“Hey, Come here! “I shouted at the top of my voice.
Still no answer.
Something went wrong.
The gate was no obstacle to us though.  A simple spell guided the crowbar along and we pushed the heavy oak doors open.
The guards were not in sight.
“Epi, we better run along.”
I agreed and we rushed towards the palace.
When we reached there, the whole place was in utter confusion.  The maids were running in all directions, shrieking as if the end of the universe was at hand.
“What is happening?” I stopped a frightened maid and asked.
“The worm!  It has found the way up the fort!”
My face paled.  “Where is the queen?”
“On the ramparts!  Trying to defend against it!”
I let go of her and ran towards the spot where she had been pointing.
Sure enough, we could see the worm.  Even at this distance we could see its angry head rearing up, high above the rampart and threatened to crush down on the earthwork.  Alicia was standing on the walls alone, waving her magical wand, which sent out sparks and energy waves to try stopping the ugly thing. But it was a losing fight.  She could not hold up much longer.
I dashed up the stairs and flew to her side.
“Alicia!  I got the ring!”
“What?”
“I got the ring.” And as I said those words, I put the ring onto her small finger on her right.
She sighed relief.
While still fighting the hideous intruder with her magical spell, she cited the incantation that she had learned for years but lacked the instrument to bring it into effect.
I felt a wall of power being built up, starting from the ring, and expanding outward like a giant ripple.  Alicia’s body was engulfed in a golden sphere and her face lit up in a victorious smile.  The initiation was complete!
Without even having to use her magic, the Worm sank to the ground, its head bowing in submission.  What was an unstoppable pest was now as meek as a pet!
Alicia murmured something and we saw something unbelievable.  The worm was shrinking!
From its gigantic size, it shortened to less than the length of her palm.  She beacon it and it crawled towards her, to be picked up and put into a box made of oak.
I looked at her, mouth dropped in disbelief.
“Amazing, isn’t it?” She said with a smile and hugged me.  “You saved our kingdom.”
“But how can it ever protect your people now?” I looked at the box.
Alicia laughed.  “Size is only relative.  I can turn it back on its original form if I wanted to.  But now it is under my strict command and no one would be foolish to challenge the royal house.”
I nodded.  Something stirred inside me.  If she would not honour her words, there was nothing we could do to stop her.
She read my thoughts and laughed.
“Have no fear, my little one.  I will honour my pledge.  You can return the disc to me after your quest.  How can you think that I will betray you?”
I felt the heating up of my cheeks.
But she was in extremely jovial mood and wrapped her arm around my waist.  I did not protest.  After all, I was supposed to be her husband.
We stayed for two more nights, during which she taught me many things.  And then came the time to depart.  A ship was made ready for our use and as the vessel left harbour for the sacred island of Mona, Bituitius and I stood at the stern and waved good-bye to the beautiful queen.
 

Part III  Bitutius

Chapter 12
 
The plan was to head due north across the Great Bay and then make our way around the north promontory and make a landing on the west coast of Mona. It meant crossing open sea rather than following the land route but would shorten our journey by many miles and save us valuable time. Alicia had provided a sturdy vessel for our voyage and an experienced captain and crew so we were hopeful of a speedy and uneventful journey. Alicia had indeed proved a valuable ally.
We must have been about thirty miles into the Bay when a shout went out from one of the Demetae crew.
Epi standing along side me asked, "What is it Bituitius"?
At first I had no idea and then I saw it just as Epi did. "A ship", we said in unison.
The ship was too distant to make out any detail but it was clear that our crew were not expecting to see another vessel in these waters. The eyes of most of the crew were on the distant ship so the gasp of horror came simultaneously from many mouths. A huge tidal wave almost seemed to emanate from the ship itself and it soon became clear that it was heading our way.
"Time for another spell", Epi ventured in a pleading tone.
I racked my brains for an answer but a saving spell was not readily available and the wave fully sixty feet high was bearing down on us. As the wave grew ever closer I cursed myself for my stupidity and the terrified crew stared helplessly at their fate. The water disc plus a spell could save us. I placed the disc on the palm of my hand vaguely aware of Epi's shouts.
"Hurry", she cried, "It is almost upon us".
The disc turned pale blue, vibrated on my hand as if it had just been called into action and then it absorbed my thoughts. I knew it had but how I knew I did not know.
The sea incredibly opened and seemed to split leaving a gaping crevice. The tidal wave then fell into the resultant hole and disappeared from view just yards out from our ship.
Epi and the sailers clapped and cheered with relief at their unexpected escape while I struggled to regain my composure.
"That Druid magic is getting stronger by the day", Epi grinned.
But my attention was already on the next tidal wave heading in our direction but now I was ready. Once again the sea parted and the wave fell into the fissure.
"Whoever is in possession of the wind disc is creating these waves", I said to Epi.
"Orgetorix, she gasped.
"Probably", I replied and dealt swiftly with the third wave.
We waited - nothing.
"Well if it is Orgetorix, he has given up", I said confidently.
Epi linked my arm and smiled and I smiled back at her.
The rest of the journey was uneventful except for the looks of awe and fear I was receiving from the crew. I was not used to something approaching mass adoration. At last Mona was in view and the next stage of the quest was upon us.
 
 

Chapter 13

We finally arrived Mona.
For the holiest spot of the Druid world, the island seemed surprisingly common.  There were lines of the sacred oak trees of course, and a ring of stones that marked the site on the small cliff looking down to a clear holy lake.  But other than that, there was nothing really so different from other sites.  But a trained eye would spot the differences immediately as he set foot on the shore.  A ring of energy seemed to vibrate in the air, every breeze a personal message.  And there was heavy traffic along the road that led one from the shore to the top of the small knoll.  Druids young and old, females too, were making way towards the circle of stones, their gleaming white robes fluttering in the wind.  Many came her to seek advice from the wise old ones, to make an offering into the placid lake, or simply to come to revitalize their spent strength by sucking in the air along with its magical qualities.
The Council convened around the ring of stones and the most senior of the druids took the seat as head for that particular day.  The Council had no power to enforce any decision made as each druid was free and would be responsible only for his/her own conscience.  Still, the words of the Head of the Council, together the support of the elders, carried weight and the decisions made were more or less universally observed.
Epi had put down her short sword and her sling on the shore before we climbed up the gentle slope that would lead us to the top of the small cliff as no weapon was allowed beyond that point.  But I was allowed to keep the oak staff.  The old Druid who collected her weapons eyed us suspiciously as if he had seen a ghost.  We knew not the reason but such glance was repeated from others along the way.  People starred and pointed and it made us very uneasy.  We had no time to find out the reason as we suspected foul play was in the make. Otherwise, our vessel would not be detained in such manner and although we had met the challenge in the most ingenious method, it had delayed our arrival somewhat, though may be not as much as our Silure friends would like to.
There was quite a large gathering of druids at the top.  The wind was stronger there too and the fluttering of the white robes looked as if a hundred birds of shining white feathers were about to take flight as they stood shoulder to shoulder and formed a close pack circle facing the inside.  Some debate was going on and Epi and I had to elbow in.
The sight took us completely by surprise.  All at once we understood why the others were looking at us in that strange manner.  In the center of the open area sat Amlawdd, the eldest known and most revered Druid was sitting on the flat of a large rock flanked by equally renowned old masters.  They were hearing the plead of two persons before them.  I almost could not believe my own eyes.  I was looking at another pair of Epi and myself!
Epi was equally shocked.  She was about to rush forward when I caught hold of her shoulder and held her back.  My eyes told her to contain her temper and it was better to wait and see what had happened before we unmask the imposters.  We pulled our hoods lower to hide our identity for the moment.
The “Bituitius” in the open was in the midst of his petition speech.
“…So, beloved Amlawdd, this is the state of our tribe when the noble Sirona sent us, on behalf of her father, Cu Ciann, whom we all had grown to love.  The Silure are on the path to seek hegemony over all the tribes and Orgetorix had allied himself with the treacherous Eugenix and his disciple Asla, attacked our tribe in the most barbaric manner and even slay Tirix, the nineteen year old son of our great chief in order to steal the Water disc in the possession of our tribe.  Doubtlessly, they would seek ways to obtain the other five discs which we all know what kind of terrible consequence would occur if they succeed.  For this, Cu Ciann, our great chief had asked me to be his envoy to plead with the council to lend him the disc now in the Council’s possession, so as to prevent it from falling into the hands of the savage Silure…”
“But if the Dobunni could not even guard its own disc, why should we entrust another disc to their care?” The old master at Amlawdd’s right queried.
“Ah, but that is not true.  Our tribe is strong and the hordes of the Silure can hardly be our match.  They only succeeded last time because we were unaware of their plan and through treachery.  Now that we are aware, they will not succeed again.  And what better candidate than us to be the guardian of the discs.  The Silure have the means to attack any other tribe and seize them if they know their whereabouts. And this also put the Council in great peril.  For even if they may not invade Mona, they are not above using means of the most wicked kind, sending assassins to achieve their unholy ends.  From what we heard during the past three days, they had done exactly that and had obtained the Earth Disc from the Queen of the Memetae through deception.  Now they have already collected three discs.  Two more and the secret of the discs would be revealed and great devastation would befall the land.  It is tantamount that the fourth disc should not fall into their hands and there is no safer place than among the Dobunni.”
“And how do we know you are speaking the truth.  How can we know you are really sent by the great chief and his loving daughter, whom we all admire and respect without doubt as he has extended his protection for the right and the needy in all the past years? “  It was the other old master who spoke.
“Bituitius” gave a polite smile and gently pushed “Epi” forward.  I began to understand their plan.
“This was anticipated.  Look, the Great chief and beloved Sirona has sent with me Eporedia, the lovely sister of Sirona.  I trust you have not forgotten her, most noble Almabdd, when you paid us the honour of your visit two years back.”
Almabdd smiled and did not comment.  His eyes seemed filled with fond memories though.
“Bituitius” continued. “And as further proof, I have here the ring of seal from the Great Chief himself.” And from his pocket, he took out a gold ring with the largest amethyst embedded on it.  Epi and I both gasped, as it was indeed the true ring of our chief.
Almabdd took over the ring and examined it, nodding in satisfaction.
“Umm… If that all said is true, then there is no reason why we should deny the Chief’s request.  He had given us shelter in times of great strife and upheld the honour of the Druid practice all his life, may he live long and healthy.” The first old master became more acquiescent.
“Not if this man is not what he claims to be!” I pulled down my hood to my back and walked straight to the High Seat.  Epi followed me.  The “Bituitius” was startled at my sudden appearance but quickly calmed himself.  The “Eporedia” at his side was becoming uneasy though.  The circle of white robed figures stirred, as they now were looking two identical pairs.  Everyone knew some foul play was present.
“Who are you?” the imposter decided to make the first move.
“I am the one whom you claim to be, Bituitius, who, unlike you, Eugenix, has always spoken the truth and uphold the conduct becoming of a true Druid!” By now, both Epi and I could easily make out who the pair before us were …Eugenix and his admirer Asla!
The imposter gave a haughty laugh and ignoring me, turned to the chief Druid.
“Now I see what it is all about.  My most honoured Almabdd.  This must be the treacherous Eugenix and Asla who had betrayed the Chief! Arrest him and I am sure you can find the Water Disc with him and may be the Earth Disc of the Memetae too!”
“There is no need to search.” I replied, taking the two discs out. “I do have them but that does not mean I am what he called me.  The Water Disc was entrusted to me by the noble Sirona and the Earth disc was lent to us by the Queen of the Memetae, as a token of appreciation for freeing her people from the curse of the giant worm.”
“What proof have you to testify what you said are nothing but lies!”
“There is no need to prove.  My words are honourable and are proof enough. And Eporedia here would vault my honesty.”
The imposter snorted. “She was nothing but a false disguise.”
Epi was about to rush him but I held her back.  To use force here hardly is appropriate.
“Noble Almabdd.” I turned towards the old Druid. “ Please do not believe this man.  He is but a dark magician who had betrayed the way of the Druid and sold his soul to the evil Orgetorix. The disc is vital to the survival of all peaceful tribes and must not fall into the hands of these two.”
“Nonsense! You are the imposters!”
The accusation and counter-accusation had turned into a stalemate.  There was nothing I could do to prove their disguise.  If he were Eugenix as I was certain he to be, I would not have the magic to force him to transform back to his original self.  Besides, that would prove only I had a stronger magic.
All fell silent and eyes were turned to the Almabdd.  
Could he with his wisdom decide on the case?  It was a grave decision as putting the disc in the hands of the wrong person would be unthinkable.
Slowly, the old Druid rose from his seat.  
“It is a difficult case to decide really.” His voice was slow and soft and did not carry the tone of authority, as one would expect from a priest of such high position. “And human wisdom may prove inadequate, even for us wise Druids.”  
There was a round of laughers as his mouse look eyes scanned the assembly.
“So, I will leave it to the gods to decide.” He stamped the butt of his staff on the ground and two younger druids carried a huge cauldron forward and placed it in the foreground.  Another brought a closed wooden box.
The old priest came forward and slowly opened the box.  Voices gasped.  A huge spider with seven bright colour stripes on its back was revealed.
“As you see, “ the old priest used his fingers to catch the back of the spider. “This little thing was caught from the darkest bowel of the earth and its poisonous bite can kill within the time a man needed to take seven steps.  The “Seven step Death Stalker” we called it.”  He raised it high and let both me and the imposter to see it.  “I will put it in the cauldron, close the lid and open the side windows.  Each of you who claimed to be who you are must stretch and put your hand inside.”  He paused to let the message sink in.
“The gods will decide who has spoken the truth!”
I saw the “Epi” on the other side pale.  But the Eporedia on my side was not feeling that well too.  It would be risky to bet your life on the whim of the gods.  And it would be a painful death if smitten by that thing!
Almahdd put the spider into the cauldron and the lid was screwed on.  Four small windows were opened for us.
“Well?” the old priest looked at us.
We looked at each other in the eyes.  There was no turning back now, of course.  All the druids were watching in silence.  
“Do not worry.  The gods will only allow the spider to bit the one who deserves it!” the mouse-like eyes of Almabdd added comical element to this test of life and death.
We walked forward.  I could feel Epi shaking.
“Please, Epi.  Do not lose faith.  We are the real ones.” I was praying that she would not back down, that she would have enough courage to undergo the test.
I looked at Eugenix.  Sweat was coming down his brow.  He extended his hand nevertheless. Alsa was almost fainting but she had no choice.  Her arms were shaking violently as it was pushed into the hole the same time as we did.
The inside of the cauldron was creepy cool.  All our fears about the dark and unknown rose up from our stomachs.  Epi was afraid but a look from me reassured her as she realized she was sharing the same fate as me.  The other “Epi” was not faring so well and tears were running down her cheeks.
Something hairy touched my forearm!  I had the impulse to withdraw!  
“No! “ I said to myself. “I need not fear.  I am the real Bituitius!  The spider will not bite me!” I strengthened my resolve and held fast.  Epi’s face was very white now. The hairy thing must have also touched her forearm.  Her whole body was shaking but she persisted.  Then, suddenly, the other “Epi” gave a sharp cry and withdrew her hand like lightning!  
All the eyes were focused on her and she knew she had betrayed her real self.  There was a popping sound and the next instant, that Epi was no longer there.  Instead, a crow took flight and fled into the clouds.
“You fool!” Eugenix pulled out his arm and since it was no longer of any use to hide his self, he transformed back to his original form.  
“Get him!” The first old master shouted.
But it was too late.  Eugenix took out a disc and murmured and before anyone could touch him, he was in the air.  
“The Wind disc!”  I understood what had happened.  It was his means of escape.  So, he was really collaborating with the Silure!
The commotion died down quickly as the wicked pair disappeared into the blue.
It was then we realized our arms were still in the cauldron.
“Can we pull them out now?” Epi was pleading.
Almabdd smiled and nodded at the two young druids.  The lid was lifted.
Our arms were there, extended and shaking.  But there was no spider!  
Only four chicken feathers were attached to the base of the cauldron and it was this who gave us the creepy feeling as if the spider was about to smite!
“But where is the spider?  We saw you put it inside.” Epi’s face was full of puzzle.
Almabdd pulled us back.  When our arms were adequately withdrawn, the old druid pressed a catch at the side of the cauldron and a trap door appeared at the base.  The spider was inside.  The moment the lid of the cauldron was closed, that trap door had caused the spider to drop below and there was never any risk of our being harmed in any way!
“Crafty old Druid!” I cursed silently.
He must have heard it and he took no offense.
“So, the gods have decided.  Those who have pure hearts and trust themselves have nothing to be afraid.”
With that he took the disc from his robe and handed it to me.
It was a disc unlike those in our possession.  It was slightly smaller and heavier and it did not hover or emit any light.  
“Was it really one of the seven discs?” I asked.
The old man shrugged his shoulders.  “It is the disc we had guarded for generations.  Not that it did any good though.  Many had thought this to be a forged disc.”
“And is it?”
“Only time will tell, my child.” He went back to his seat and as if terribly tired after the whole thing, closed his mouse-like eyes.
I looked at the disc again.  If this disc was indeed not one of the seven, then it would mean we were not in possession of three discs and there was still a possibility of the Silure getting enough five to open the gate.  But that was future worry and we had to congratulate ourselves on being able to come out today unscathed.  
We bade the council farewell and returned to our ship.  It was time to think what we should do next.