---

The Maiden & the Crone

An Assassin’s Creed Crossover Story - Odyssey x Valhalla

Written by Zark

---

Artwork by Letty

Chapter 1: Bury the Past, Build the Future

It has been 10 years since the destruction of the Lia Fáil. Ciara ingen Medba, formerly the Bard of All Ireland, has been wandering alone aimlessly far, far away from Dublin. She is the last of her kind, the last to awaken the Lia Fáil, and has vowed to never let her power fall into the wrong hands. The days haven’t been kind to Ciara, but she finds peace in a cave deep in the forest.

One morning, she is awakened by a calling crow perched on a tree. Surprised, the curious Ciara runs outside the cave and peers closer at the crow. “Somehow…you look familiar,” Ciara said to the crow. The crow flies to another tree, with Ciara’s face darting along its path. Childhood memories flash: “I remember you! When I was young, I always saw a crow out of the corner of my eye. As I grew older, I would see the same crow from afar.” Ciara moved closer to the Crow, “and now, as I take in the rain and the leaves, we are very close to one another. What…or rather, who are you?”

The Crow flies to another tree. From behind the tree emerged a tall figure, dressed in a black robe with gold bracers, slippers, earrings, and necklace. The figure, human in appearance, had long, curly white hair, with glowing white eyes and gold lines along its body.

“Hello, Ciara!” greeted the figure.

More childhood memories flash by as a surprised Ciara recognizes the figure in front of her. “A crone? No, wait! You are…the Morrigan. I sometimes prayed to you when I was with the Children of Danu. I’ve always felt you close.”

The figure snickers, “Indeed, I am known as the Morrigan to your people.” A second figure walks from behind Ciara and says, “And before that Badb, and Macha.” A third figure appears and continues, “And Nemain. But I prefer Hekate.” The three figures walk to stand beside each other.

A confused Ciara asks, “You are a Greek Goddess?”

All three Hekate figures laugh in unison then answer, “No, I am not Greek. nor am I a Goddess.” The other two figures disappear, and the main Hekate figure teleports to Ciara and clarifies, “I simply came…before.”

A shocked Ciara trips to the ground. Hekate reaches out her hand and pulls Ciara up, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.”

Ciara brushes the leaves off, “So, why are you here? I prayed to you for luck in strife and war. But I do not plan on going to conflict anytime soon.”

Hekate answers, “Even though I am not a Goddess, humans considered me just that. I was once worshiped as the Goddess of Crossroads and Keys.”

Ciara interrupts, “And witchcraft, as my people heavily used.”

Hekate continued, “And as such, I am here to guide you back on the proper path.”

Ciara asks, “The proper path to what? If it has to do with my powers, I don’t want to venture along that path.”

Hekate responds, “You used to make everyone dance on tip-toes to your ceremonials, your songs of Ireland. Now you wander around this labyrinth that you call the forests without a care of where you want to go. Look around you. While you claim to find peace here in the rain and the leaves, all I see is nothing. This is no way to live, Ciara!”

Ciara answers back, “You’re right! I don’t care where I go just as long as I’m far away from Dublin and Tara. I will not let anyone use my powers for evil.”

The two pause and Ciara turns her head away. Hekate then turns to the forest, “Perhaps it is fate, then, that has brought you back here to Connacht.”

Ciara turns back to Hekate. “Is that where I am now?” Hekate turns back to Ciara, and Ciara continues, “I never did keep track of where I was heading.”

Hekate wraps an arm around Ciara, “In times when we lose our way, it is always best to come back home.” The two walk back into the cave.

Ciara notices that the structure looks unnatural. “What is this place?” she asks.

The two stop at a central pedestal. Hekate unwraps her arm and turns to Ciara. She answers, “The forest doesn’t have to be the end of your journey, Ciara. Let me show you something.” Hekate brings up a small glowing disc from underneath and places it on the pedestal. Ciara witnesses the cave illuminating around her and the pedestal rising.

“What magic is this?” a surprised Ciara asks.

“You call it ‘magic’. This is merely Isu technology,” Hekate answers, walking to the pedestal.

“Isu?” Ciara asks, following her. Ciara examines the cave around her, with a ceiling of illuminated reliefs depicting scenes of civilization, nature, and battle. As she looks back at the pedestal, she recognizes the display, “Wait, this looks to be some sort of map. And there are places here that I haven’t seen before.” She points to an island. “That is Ireland! And…that is Tara and the Lia Fáil! What do all these points represent?”

Hekate explains, “What you call the Lia Fáil was one of many Torches that I originally developed to protect this world from a catastrophe. The Torches would create a sort of shield, if you will, that would cover the hill and the people on it. They made a shelter, and all the Torches you see on this map would guide people back together after the catastrophe ended.”

Ciara objects, “But I saw the Lia Fáil take away others’ reason. Or rather…I used the Lia Fáil to make those soldiers do my bidding.”

Hekate further explains, “That is because the other Isu experimented with my Torches for similar functions. There was an adaptation called the Torch of Hypnos. Its primary function is exactly what you did, to control the minds of soldiers.”

Ciara replies, “I take it from the name, these Torches put them in a sleep-like trance. Their mind and body became not of their own. And they don’t remember what they did, just like those soldiers.”

Hekate acknowledges, “Exactly.”

Ciara nods and continues, “The stone will bring woe. But if Ireland came to peril, the stone will rain a storm of wonders. This is the true Stone Heart of Inis Fáil - your shield over the bounteous fields.”

Hekate replies, “As it is written in your beautiful song, Maiden of Music.”

“I’m flattered.” Ciara smiles in gratitude, then asks further, “And what catastrophe are you referring to?”

Hekate answers, “It has already happened. But, how to explain…does the phrase ‘solar flare’ mean anything to you?”

A confused Ciara shakes her head and replies, “I don’t think so.”

Hekate taps the disc again. A projection starts playing on the pedestal and ceiling highlighting the history of the Isu. “While some of us have managed to outlive this catastrophe, most of us are dying. And time has worked against us. Our truth turned into myth and legend. What we built, misunderstood. Let what I have shown you preserve our message and make a record of our loss. But let my words also bring hope.” From underneath, Hekate picks up a box and she presents it to Ciara. “I see that you lost your seaxes,” Hekate says while opening the box. “What is mine is now yours, forged in the city of Atlantis.”

Ciara picks up two glowing-green Isu Daggers from the box. She turns, swinging the daggers to get a feel for their weight and balance.“Shiny! These are nice! I’ve never held metal like these before. It’s light…yet feels very familiar.” Ciara turns back to Hekate, “In fact, I feel as if some of what you showed me is familiar. But, I still don’t see how I exactly fit into all this.”

Hekate says, “Well as you said, you always felt me close.”

Ciara responds, “Yes! Because for as long as I can remember, I’ve had dreams where I was in an open meadow, like what you showed me on the ceiling. I was wearing gold bracers and a black robe like yours. I was playing a lyre like yours and standing underneath a big tree surrounded by temple ruins. I’ve had dreams of holding two torches fighting…giants. But in other dreams of combat, I was not holding torches,” Ciara pauses to look at her new weapons, “but daggers.” She clutches them closer to examine them. “These daggers, in fact. From the moment I held them…” Ciara then notices faint gold lines on her hands. She looks back at Hekate, who raises her backhand towards Ciara. Ciara notices Hekate’s gold lines resemble those on her.

Ciara gasps and drops the Daggers on the pedestal. She raises her backhand like Hekate. Ciara moves her raised hand, as does Hekate. Ciara tilts her head, as does Hekate - they are mirroring each other. “As I said, what is mine is yours,” Hekate says. “It has always been yours.”

Ciara realizes, “That means…I am you. And that crow…you were with me all this time. A reflection of who I once was.” Hekate folds back her arms, and Ciara continues, “So is this what my journey has come to? You want me to continue your work. I’m merely a vessel for your life after death.”

Hekate replies, “You are more than just a vessel in disguise, Ciara. You only think about how others can use your power for their own gain. But what if you could control it? Or rather, you could all this time. However, for one moment, you let your anger control you instead. And you think that it will happen again and that you will bring about another reckoning.” Ciara looks down at the floor, starting to cry. Hekate continues, “but as I said earlier, it doesn’t have to be that way, Ciara!”

Hekate walks slowly towards Ciara and continues, “Power doesn’t come from what abilities we have, but how we use those abilities. We Isu enslaved humans and made them - made you - our playthings. And when the Catastrophe struck, our infighting made us unable to address the threat. We perished because of our hubris. When I said that I would guide you to the proper path, I don’t want you to become like me or the other Isu. No…whatever grudges I’ve held in my life are long gone.”

Ciara cries, and Hekate hugs her. Ciara says, “It seems no matter how far I run, I can never leave my past behind. I see no way.”

“You are your own person, Ciara,” Hekate replied. “And from what I have seen, in spite of any wrongdoing, you have certainly made a lot of right choices in your life. So shake out this feeling, Ciara, like I had. For it is hard to dance with the devil on your back.”

Ciara continued crying, “It’s taken me a lot of pain and loss to get me here.”

Hekate answers, “Pain is the price to survive, to evolve. Don’t let one wrong choice determine your fate now. You can choose to be better. It is that freedom that I have grown to admire about humanity. And we must protect others so that freedom is never taken away. For as a guide, I find true strength in empowering others.”

Ciara wipes back tears and answers, “That is what I was fighting for when I joined Flann in his fight against the corrupt Children of Danu. I wanted to empower my people, to ensure they were treated equally. When I left, he would assure that the rights of the old Druids would be secure. But there must be others who are looking for the same thing.”

Hekate continued, “I have a feeling that an old friend of yours may return here to help you with that.”

Ciara pauses, then realizes, “Are you talking about Eivor?”

Hekate nods, “Mm-hmm.”

Ciara continued, “Deirdre referred to her as Wodin. Is Eivor like…you and me?”

Hekate answers, “I did know of Odin, or Havi as he was otherwise known. He was a selfish man who was obsessed with cheating death. Though, this Eivor seems different. I think she has found other temples like this one. From what I have seen from afar, I also think her journey is coming to an end soon, but is going to finish some rounds here before the end. She will make her way here eventually. Seek Eivor and her friend Hytham to find the other temples, and guard them from those who take away freedom.”

Ciara nods and smiles, “Thank you…for saving me.” They both hug again.

Hekate replies, “Of course, Maiden of Music.”

Ciara chuckles, “Is that what you call me, Crone of Witches?”

Hekate and Ciara share a brief laugh. Ciara continues, “This is a new beginning for the both of us. Will I see you again?”

Hekate taps the disc to dim the lights and answers, “I will always be with you.” She pulls the disc from the pedestal and two others from underneath and gives all three to Ciara. “Take these three Keys with you as well. They will help you find your way back if you ever get lost.”

Ciara grabs the Keys and Daggers. “Well, I’m ready.” She raises her hand, as does Hekate. They both nod in unison and then hold each other’s hands. Hekate then disappears, while a crow calls outside the cave. Ciara heads towards the crow’s call.

Chapter 2: Fare Thee Well, Land of Destiny

One month later, a longship emblazoned with the sail of the Raven Clan One month later, a longship emblazoned with the sail of the Raven Clanheads for Dublin. On board is the clan’s former Jarl, Eivor Varinsdottir; her friend, the Hidden One Hytham; and the Misthios Kassandra.  “So close to home, yet so far,” Kassandra says to Eivor.

“But I don’t plan on coming back,” Eivor replies. “This will be my goodbye. But not before I helped the both of you to establish a bureau in Dublin.” 

“We Hidden Ones never usually deal with royalty,” Hytham adds. “But if King Flann is indeed a friend as you say, then we can help each other.”

The longship docks, while King Flann Sinna and his court are waiting and looking onward. Flann’s soldiers help Kassandra and Hytham unload the cargo, while Flann welcomes Eivor with a hug, “Eivor! It’s been ten years since I last saw you on these shores!”

Eivor replies, “It is nice to see you again, Flann! I see Dublin is looking great as well!”

Flann observes, “And I see you brought some friends.”

Eivor answers, “These are Kassandra and Hytham. Kassandra and Hytham, this is Flann Sinna, High King of Ireland.”

“Welcome, welcome!” greets Flann. “We have prepared some quarters for you in the King’s Hall, with some help from a local merchant and old friend.”

“Hello, Eivor!” greets the merchant Azar.

“Azar!” Eivor replies. “Nice to see you again! These are Kassandra and Hytham.”

“A pleasure,” gestures Azar, shaking hands with Kassandra and Hytham.

Eivor adds, “My time here will be short. But Kassandra and Hytham would definitely need the rooms as they’ll be staying longer.”

“Whatever you all need, we’ll be sure to accommodate you!” Flann says. He turns to Kassandra and Hytham, “Come, I’ll show you to your quarters.” 

“Before you go ahead, Eivor, there’s a matter we need to discuss,” Azar says. 

Flann then turns to Eivor and Azar, “I’ll meet with you both when you’re ready.”

Kassandra and Hytham carry their load and walk with the court to the King’s Hall. Eivor and Azar head for Eivor’s old house in Dublin. Eivor asks, “What has happened, Azar?”

Azar says, “I have someone new working in my shop, who started a few weeks ago. She says that knows you and has been very eager to meet you again.”

“Oh!” Eivor answers, surprised. “And who might that be?”

Azar knocks. Inside was a hooded figure wearing a red top and a hooded leather vest. Eivor recognizes the outfit. Azar greets, “Ciara!”

Ciara removes her hood and turns to the two. She runs to Eivor, and the two hug.

“Ciara!” Eivor exclaims, “By the Gods, I’m so happy to see you again!”

“As am I, Eivor,” Ciara replies. “It’s been too long!”

“My time here will be short,” Eivor says, “but we have a lot to catch up on.”

“I’ll leave you two,” Azar says. “Come meet me in the King’s Hall when you’re ready.”

Night has fallen, and Eivor and Ciara have been talking for a few hours. Eivor discusses her time in France, meeting with Roshan, and what has brought her to Ireland. Ciara discusses her meeting with Hekate: “So the Morrigan, or rather Hekate, mentioned that you and a friend would be coming here.”

“I see,” Eivor responds. “It must be no coincidence then that Odin has reemerged for me as well.”

Ciara replies, “I never told you this ten years ago, but Deirdre would sometimes refer to you as Wodin in my conversations with her.”

Eivor says, “Now that you mention it, I do remember Deirdre calling me that once. It was after I had a dream about fighting a giant horned monster and getting a spear from that battle.” 

“What is it with us fighting giants?” Ciara asks. The two chuckle.

Eivor continues, “With all that we’ve been experiencing, I think it’s best to talk to Kassandra and Hytham about this.”

“I very much would like to speak with Hytham. But what would Kassandra know about this?” Ciara asks.

“They know a lot as they have seen things from those who came before, especially Kassandra,” Eivor answers.

Ciara adds, “That’s what Hekate called herself and her kind.”

Eivor replies, “And with the task that Hekate has set for you, Hytham would be able to help you with that. Are you ready?”

After a brief moment, Ciara answers, “I’m ready. Let’s go.” 

Eivor and Ciara head for the King’s Hall. When they enter, a feast is happening, and King Flann is talking with Azar, Hytham and Kassandra. Flann notices the two and greets, “Ah, Eivor! You made it!” The four walk over.

“I hope we’re not too late,” Eivor reckons.

Flann replies, “Oh, no! We started a few moments ago.” He turns to Ciara, “and…Ciara!”

“Evening, Flann!” Ciara greets.

“A pleasant surprise to see you here!” Flann exclaims. “Also, I’m really sorry for what happened ten years ago.”

“But I’ve seen that you held up your end,” Ciara says appreciatively, “The old Druids have mingled well with the Norse and Christians. And for that, I am grateful. Thank you very much, Flann!”

Flann and Ciara hug each other. “It’s nice to see you again, Ciara,” Flann says. “And these are Eivor’s friends.”

Eivor replies, “Yes! Ciara, these are Kassandra and Hytham.”

“Oh! Eivor has mentioned you before,” Kassandra says.

“Has she now?” Ciara asks, gesturing to Eivor.

Hytham answers, “Yes. But I never thought I would get to meet you in person.”

Ciara replies, “Well, by good graces, I’m still here.” She chuckles for a bit, then continues, “It’s actually those good graces that I wanted to discuss with you all.” Ciara turns to Flann, “in private, preferably.”

Flann answers, “Very well. We have the whole night! I’ll ask to bring out more food and drinks now that the both of you are here. I’ll be around.” He walks away.

The five sit at a table outside the main hall. Ciara discusses her interaction with Hekate: “And so, there I was, in a temple deep within a cave. Hekate mentioned the purpose for the Lia Fáil. She called it a Torch. It was one of her creations that acted as a shield that would cover the surrounding area in the event of a catastrophe. She also gave me these Daggers and these three Keys.” Ciara reaches under the table to show Hekate’s Daggers and Keys on the table. “Hekate also gave me a task,” Ciara continues, “to find the other temples. She somehow knew Eivor and Hytham were coming here. So I made my way back to Dublin to see for myself.”

“As I have said many times already, I felt Odin close for all my life,” Eivor adds. “Even now, nearing the end of my journey, I feel him much closer than ever.”

“Same with me and Hekate,” Ciara added.

“And are you sure this is what Hekate wants of you?” Kassandra asks Ciara.

“I’m sorry?” Ciara answers, surprised. The other three turn to Kassandra.

“Please forgive my bluntness,” Kassandra continues, “but I do not trust Hekate. I met another one who came before called Aletheia. Aletheia showed me how cruel and conniving the Isu were. I was brought into their world, through a ‘simulation’ as Aletheia called it, to a place called Elysium. I met Hekate there and found myself in the middle of a war between her, her friend Persephone, and a human named Adonis. Hekate used other humans as tools for her goal of overthrowing Persephone as ruler of Elysium. From what I saw, she had no interest in helping humans, like almost all Isu.”

Ciara replies, “That is interesting. And how did you meet Aletheia?”

Kassandra answers, “I was introduced to her through this staff handed to me by my father.” Kassandra points to the Staff of Hermes Trismegistus behind her, then continues, “Aletheia…speaks through the staff. She referred to me as its Keeper, that I need to keep it safe and prepare it for the one she calls the Heir of Memories.”

“Rather like how Hekate gave me the Daggers and Keys,” Ciara says.

Eivor asks Kassandra, “How will you know if you have met the Heir of Memories?”

“Somehow…I will know them when I see them,” Kassandra answers. “And I don’t think it is either of you, given your connections to Isus other than Aletheia.”

A momentary silence envelops the room as everyone contemplates Kassandra’s story. Then Ciara says, “Well, regardless of how we view our connections to those who came before, I think this is our best way of finding their temples.”

“Yes, indeed,” Hytham adds, “I’ve seen some of these temples myself. There is one underneath the Hidden One Fortress in Alamut in Persia. But when I tried to touch the artifacts, I could not bring myself to do so. Somehow I knew I would not be able to control it myself.”

“This is all fascinating,” Azar replies. “I’ve heard stories about these ‘temples’, as they call them, from my trade contacts. I thought they were just myths. Though I did get the occasional artifact with markings I never recognized. It could be from these temples.”

 “I too have seen the kind of temples and artifacts you describe,” Eivor adds. “I managed to find Odin’s spear Gungnir and Thor’s hammer Mjolnir. They are indeed not of this world. But looking deeper, I somehow was able to control these objects. Or it might have been Odin who was controlling them.”

Kassandra turns to Ciara, “You are putting blind faith in someone who may be using you for her personal gain.”

Ciara answers back, “In that case, are you not doing the same with Aletheia? The way that I see it is we can either let them control us, or we can work with them to keep their power hidden. We have all seen what the Isu’s power can do. It must not fall into the wrong hands. We have to trust them if it gets us closer to finding their temples and artifacts.”

“And maybe we can use their power for our cause?” Hytham asks.

Ciara replies, “I myself have harnessed their power. Then I destroyed it after seeing the chaos that I created. There is no man on Earth who needs that power. I refuse to be someone else’s weapon. But I will help you to keep everyone away from it.” 

“On that, we are agreed,” Hytham says. “I saw this power corrupt my mentor Basim. Or rather, it awakened something within him, according to his journals. Whatever that thing was, it took over Basim. But I see that you three are able to control this power.”

Kassandra, Ciara, and Eivor nod in acknowledgement.

Hytham continues, “I came here to Dublin to establish a bureau for the Hidden Ones. We dedicate ourselves to fighting for the freedom of humanity. From what Eivor has told me, you also fought for the freedoms for everyone in Ireland - Norse, Christian, and Pagan - against those who would take that freedom away.”

Ciara answers, “Yes, the Children of Danu, of which I was formerly a member of.”

Hytham nods, then elaborates, “We Hidden Ones have been fighting a similar faction called the Order of the Ancients. Our conflict has raged on over centuries. With the Children of Danu gone and the Lia Fáil destroyed, it is only a matter of time before the Order finds the other Isu artifacts in Ireland and uses them to enslave all of the island.”

“If they haven’t found them already,” Azar says.

Hytham continued, “It is for that reason that I invite you, Ciara ingen Medba, and you, Azar, to join the Hidden Ones.”

Azar answers, “I am ready, Hytham. I can use my connections to provide you with weapons and supplies. Though, it wouldn’t hurt to learn a bit of combat as well, especially with that fancy wrist blade of yours.”

Hytham chuckles and nods while showing his Hidden Blade. Eivor and Kassandra turn to Ciara.

Ciara pauses, then answers, “Hekate wanted me to return here and meet with the both of you, Eivor and Hytham. I believe in what she said about giving freedom to everyone and guiding people to do good. I must protect that freedom. On that, our goals align. For that reason, I shall become a Hidden One.”

All five stand and break into a small applause. “We welcome you both!” Hytham exclaims. “You will be our first recruits for our new Irish Bureau.”

“In time, we will grow our network to counter the Order of the Ancients when they come to Ireland,” Azar says.

“I have received word that they are here already,” Hytham says. “But we can discuss that tomorrow after our training.”

“Of which I will be heading, along with Hytham,” Kassandra added.

“I look forward to it,” Ciara replies. “What about you, Eivor?”

Eivor answers, “With my recent experiences with Odin, I do not plan to stay here for long. I came to help establish a bureau for Hytham with new recruits. And tonight, we achieved that. A few days from now, I shall sail to Vinland. But don’t worry, Ciara. You will be in good hands with those three.” Kassandra, Hytham, and Azar nod. “You will one day make a great Master for the Hidden Ones.”

Eivor and Ciara hug. “Thank you for everything, Eivor,” Ciara says. “And thank you - Azar, Hytham, Kassandra - for helping me start anew.”

Hytham says, “Eivor mentioned you being a great advisor to King Flann. Now, I myself also look forward to the eventual Master Ciara’s Counsel.”

Ciara chuckles a bit, “I like that. Has a nice ring to it.”

Just then, King Flann walks to their table. “Well, well, I hope you all are enjoying the evening!” Flann passes cups of mead to the five.

“Very splendid! Thank you, Flann,” Eivor answers.

“Excellent,” Flann replies. 

“Thank you, Flann, but no mead for me,” Ciara says. “I haven’t had any all night,” she turns to Eivor, then continues, “because I remember what happened the last time I had one too many.” 

Eivor smirks and replies, “Same with me, I also haven’t had any all night.”

“Totally understandable,” Flann replies. “Ciara, I’ve missed your wonderful voice. Now that you’re back here, would you be able to grace us once again with a song of Ireland?”

Kassandra, Hytham, Eivor, and Azar turn to Ciara. Ciara turns back to them then answers, “Yes! I actually would very much like that.”

“Perfect!” Flann exclaims.

“I saved your lyre and special costume from ten years ago,” Azar adds.

“Oh, really?!” Ciara says, surprised.

Also surprised, Flann replies, “I…also was wondering what happened to those.”

Ciara continued, “Well then, I must go tidy up.” She winks at Eivor, and Eivor smirks back. Ciara leaves to get prepared. They all head back to the grand hall. 

After a few minutes, King Flann appears on stage and taps a goblet to call everyone’s attention. “Greetings again, everyone! Tonight, we celebrated the return of my long-time friend Eivor Varinsdottir of Ravensthorpe in England. But we also celebrate the return of another dear friend, and one of my most trusted advisors from many years ago. Please welcome the Ollamh Érenn, Ciara ingen Medba!”

Ciara - in her outfit from Flann’s coronation ten years ago - walks from stage left while the crowd applauds and cheers. “Good evening, everyone!” Ciara greets the crowd. “It has been awhile since I have been in this hall. And it feels great to be back. How about if I start with two pieces that you might be familiar with?” The crowd claps in acknowledgement. 

Ciara then performs Canaid Lia Fáil and Flann for Éirinn. The crowd breaks into loud applause and praise, with a few chanting Ciara’s name, including Eivor and Kassandra.

A smiling Ciara responds to the crowd, “Thank you all very much. You’ve been a delight! I missed performing those two pieces.” She pauses then continues, “If you don’t mind, I have a few more I would like to perform.” The crowd claps and cheers in acknowledgment. Ciara continues, “Splendid! Now, I think I’m going to need some help with these.” 

On cue, a woman in a black robe holding a pan flute walks up on stage right. Ciara turns to the woman and pauses with a surprised look on her face.

Eivor and Kassandra also notice the woman. “Who is…” a confused Eivor asks, turning to Kassandra.

Still looking at the stage, Kassandra cuts Eivor, “That is Hekate!”

Eivor turns back to the stage. She signals to Hytham - the three ready themselves.

Still looking at Hekate, Ciara thanks her for coming up. She then turns to the crowd, “I’m going to be performing a collection of songs that I learned in my childhood, ones that my mother always sang to me. I knew them by a different name back then, but I’ve come to realize what it really means and how it’s meant to inspire people for good. I now call this song collection Master Hekate’s Ceremonials.”

After about an hour of performing the song collection, the crowds give a standing ovation to Ciara. Ciara responds, “Thank you all very much! You’ve been an amazing crowd.” She calls for a cup of water and raises it, “Hope you all enjoyed! Have a great night!” Another brief standing applause from the crowd follows. Ciara and Hekate walk off, with Ciara heading for Eivor’s group and Hekate walking through an exit.

Standing with Eivor’s group, Flann says, “Ciara, Ciara, Ciara! That was amazing!”

Hytham exclaims, “That was excellent, Ciara!”

“Wonderful performance, Ciara!” says Azar.

“I love those songs,” Kassandra says. “They remind me of ones my old friends used to sing at sea.”

“Thanks so much,” Ciara replies, “glad to hear that!”

“By the gods, I missed that beautiful voice of yours, Ciara!” says Eivor.

Ciara smirks and replies, “Thank you, Eivor!”

“It is getting late, so I must retire for the night,” says Hytham.

“Indeed it is late,” answers Flann. “Though I might stay a little while longer. So, good night to you!” Flann walks off.

“Same with me,” adds Azar. “A few more minutes might not hurt.”

“I shall retire as well,” says Kassandra. “See you tomorrow for training!”

“Good night!” greets Ciara. “And you, Eivor?”

“Well, with this probably being my last night here,” Eivor asks, “what if we spent some time, just you and me?”

Ciara smirks and answers, “I like how you think.”

The two head back to Eivor’s old house. “I missed you, Eivor!” Ciara says. Eivor and Ciara kiss and spend the night together.

A few days later, in the morning - Ciara, Azar, Hytham, and Kassandra help Eivor load the longboat for her journey to Vinland. The four bid final farewells, with Ciara saying, “Thank you again for everything, Eivor! Good luck and be safe on your journey!”

“Good luck to you all and thank you!” Eivor replies. “Safety and peace, my friends.” Eivor rows the longboat towards the west. They all wave to each other one last time. Then Eivor unfurls its sail, heading for Vinland.

Kassandra turns to Ciara and Azar, “we will start training in the afternoon.”

Hytham adds, “Yes, Flann has given us a space in Cashelore. We’ll train there.”

Azar says, “Aye, I’ll see you in Cashelore.”

Ciara replies, “See you in the afternoon.” She heads back to Eivor’s old house to get herself ready. Ciara picks up one of Hekate’s Keys from the table and taps it. Hekate walks through the door. “Good morning, Crone!” Ciara greets.

“Good morning, Maiden!” Hekate replies.

Ciara comments, “You were very good with the pan flute and harmonies last night. Very dazzling voice!”

Hekate chuckles a bit, then says, “You were amazing yourself!”

Ciara and Hekate beam at each other. Then Ciara brings up the disc, “I’ve been studying the symbols on the Keys. I notice this one has what looks to be some sort of circular labyrinth. This is your wheel!”

“Yes, the strophalos, as my followers call it,” Hekate answered. 

Ciara flips to the second Key. “On this one I notice the symbol on this to be the Celtic Trinity Knot. Which probably is meant to represent me and this land.”

Hekate nods, “Yes, exactly!”

“Then, there is the last Key,” Ciara continued. “The symbol on this looks like three curved brush strokes. But I have not seen this symbol before.”

Hekate says, “I heard that symbol comes from a faraway land of the rising sun. At least that’s what they call it. Given how I am the Crone and you a’re the Maiden, I was hoping to find a Mother in this land of the rising sun.”

Ciara replies, “A Mother, eh? Well, I hope she can be very helpful in this conflict I’m about to enter.”

Hekate answers, “Oh, she will, in time. I have no doubt about that.”

Ciara nods, “Well then, I must be off to my training. My first steps in this larger conflict.”

“Good luck, Ciara,” Hekate replies. “Safety and peace.”

Ciara hugs Hekate. “Thank you, Morrigan. I’m going to need it. Praise Hekate!”

The two smile at each other. Hekate exits the house. Ciara packs the Keys and Daggers in her bag. She then rides for Cashelore to begin her journey as a Hidden One.