Strongbow, Veil, and Ser’fina had met at the Temple of the Seldarine. They would form the clerical circle necessary to attempt to bring back Q’wellen’s spirit from its torment due to his bond with the black scimitar Wrath and the lich Khellenduras. They offered prayers to their respective gods and went over last minute preparations before walking to the Shrine of Justice.

There was not a large crowd when they arrived which was probably just as well. A few Elves were inside and the Captain of Tel’Mithrim, Brisid Celebmegil, stood guard outside with one other. The three clerics made sure all was in readiness and took their places upon the stairs in front of the anhk, and the ceremony began.

Veil called to Q’wellen’s spirit, and moments later its wavering form appeared before them on the symbol of the scales representing Justice. The phantasm appeared confused at first, wondering why it had been summoned. Veil spoke soothingly and after a while it began to recognize those in attendence. Veil then explained that there would be three conditions that would need to be met before he could return to this world, and that to these he must agree, for to say nay to any, meant nay to all. The spirit acknowledged that it understood.

Next, Ser’fina began by explaining that to find true happiness, Q’wellen must seek his true love down a separate path. Her goddess Hanali Celanil had spoken to her, and would allow her power to be added to the circle, but only if he agreed. To this the spirit reluctantly acquiesced and the first condition had been met.

Veil then spoke, telling the spirit that there was someone else who wished to speak to him. There came keening in the air, and then a faint song played in the minds of all present. Nim’Alkar, the sword of Light and Balance had made its presence known. It then spoke directly to Q’wellen. Nim’Alkar spoke plainly of the failing of the Bladesinger to cast aside the dark blade Wrath, and told of Wrath’s evil nature, assaulting the spirit’s mind with dreadful images of the Elfwar to emphasize her point. The spirit was then commanded to reaffirm his vows that he took to become a Bladesinger. After affirming his choice, Nim’Alkar led him through the vow; Strongbow’s voice also softly accompanied him. After this was done, the Sword of light made it known that Q’wellen’s tie to the lantern Khellenduras possessed he must take care of himself, but that it could indeed break the bond that Wrath held over him. To do this, its power must be granted by Tethrin Veralde’, the Patron of all Bladesingers. Thus passed the second condition.

Strongbow then raised his arms high in the air and began chanting a prayer, beseeching Tethrin to grant his power to Nim’Alkar. After completing the prayer, Strongbow slumped and fell into a deep trance. Veil knelt and cradled his head in her lap. As she did so, there came a chorus and a great shining from just in front of the anhk, and a tall transparent being stood amidst the scintillating aura. Pale hair like spun gold hung well past his shoulders over a silver cloak. Shining blue chainmail covered his perfect form, and he held a silvery longsword of some strange metal in his right hand. As the glow faded the being solidified into the earthly form of Tethrin’s avatar. Silver ageless eyes scanned the room, rivetting all where they stood, transfixed at the sight of an Elven demi-god in their presence. Tethrin then leveled his gaze at Q’wellen and spoke in a voice that was like music. He softly reprimanded Q’wellen’s spirit, stating that his sacrifice had been needless, and yes, it was done in love, but selfishly and in pride, not honor. For his participation, the being placed a geas upon Q’wellen; that in a time yet to come, he must walk the path of humility and strive, as he had to become a Bladesinger, to achieve its highest honor. He must become a Knight of Humility. Q’wellen did not refuse. Tethrin smiled and then gave Nim’Alkar the power to break the bond, and the circle was complete.

As Q’wellen’s spirit began to coalesce, chaos erupted outside. Two outcast Drow had attacked the guards. Several elves lept to their defense, and many fell before the Avatar went outside, commanding an end to the madness. With order restored, Tethrin then laid the sword he had wielded at Q’wellen’s feet. A sword of Light, to replace the sword of Darkness lost. With this action he bade all farewell and faded from view.

It was after the ceremony that Veil had first exhibited signs of not feeling well. She said she felt tired and slumped against Strongbow. They all left then and went to the Silver Arrow. Strongbow gave her some water to drink and let her rest against him. A while later however she began to cough, so he took her home so she could lie down in more comfort.

The healer he had brought from the Abbey the next day was not much help. He applied some herbal poultices to her forehead, probed and poked her, hemmed and hawwed, and muttered incessantly. Frustrated, Strongbow finally had to send the overly talkative curate back to Yew before he disemboweled him to silence his wagging tongue. That night he had talked to Maya. At first she had avoided his questions, but finally admitted that it was the price that Num’Alkar had demanded. Veil’s life force itself was ebbing.

…Strongbow’s mind snapped back to the present. He stood and doused the lanterns and went into their bedroom, slipping quietly into bed next to his ailing beloved. Veil did not stir. Nor had she awakened at all this day and her breathing had become shallower. Strongbow lay awake with her in his arms, thinking about what Maya had said and where she was going. He said a silent prayer to Corellon that her search was successful.