#satyarani

A small campfire was crackling away fiercely by the time Wolf moved.

She turned her head slightly, confused.

“…What…?” dread and unease still curdled in her belly, and she sat down heavily. Out of the corner of her eye she spotted her staff in the ground, and stared at it like she couldn’t believe that it was there. She slowly reached her hand out, afraid that it would disappear.

Her hand touched warm wood, and she wrapped her hand around it, gripping it tight and pulling it closer.

“Wolf?”

Wolf startled and looked to her other side, seeing Raven.

“Raven! What, what are you doing here?”

“Erina called for me,” Raven slowly sat down. “She was worried about you. You, you were not here.”

The huff of disbelief faded as Wolf’s face furrowed.

“Aye. I was… I was not quite here. I… I do not know. I am sorry,” she pressed the heel of her palm against her forehead.

“I do not think you need to apologise, although Erina and Satyarani are both confused as to what caused it.”

“I do not think that I know,” Wolf rested her forehead on her free hand. “There was a smell, mud. The smell of mud, and I… I walked into the tent…”

Raven waited for Wolf to gather her thoughts.

“… I know why,” she sighed. “It was often muddy in Nevar’s camp, and I did not leave that tent for months,” Wolf growled under her breath. “First nightmares, then rope, then the potion not working and now this. I thought I was better than this!” she slammed her fist into the ground. “Why?! Why is this happening now?!”

“That I cannot answer.”

“I do not expect you to, my apologies,” Wolf looked out towards the Shadow Wood. “I am so tired Raven. I am tired of my mind turning against me, I am tired of not being the person I used to be. You never met that Wolf. She was confident, and bright. It felt as though nothing could touch her.”

“She is still you, merely changed, as we all do.”

“Aye, I suppose. Still I will ask, did the potion work for you last night?”

“…It did not,” Raven admitted.

“It did not work for me either. I may take a stronger dose tonight.”

“I believe Erina is brewing a fresh batch,” Raven nodded over to the small campfire, where Erina was indeed brewing in a small cauldron. “Perhaps I should ask her for some?”

“It will do no harm,” Wolf agreed. “I apologise for dragging you from your task to tend to me.”

“You need not apologise. I do not feel I did much, I merely waited to see if you would come back.”

“And I am grateful for that, truly,” Wolf’s eyes trailed north to a mountain just beyond the River of the Diving Bird. “My apologies, I do not think I can be around too many people tonight,” the idea of sharing a camp with Erina and Satyarani turned her stomach into knots.

“I heard wolf howls last night. Is there a pack nearby?”

“I know of a pack within the Forest of Dawn Time and another in Triple Thorn Wood. They travel though, they may be in their seasonal grounds.”

“But you know where they are?”

“Aye, but they do not remember me.”

“But they heard you last night?”

“…Aye.”

“Then go if you need. I will tell Erina and Satyarani.”

Wolf looked over at the other two, before looking back at Raven. She nodded briefly before shifting into a wolf, and with one more glance over her shoulder, she disappeared into Shadow Wood.

 ---

Satyarani watched Raven fly back to the west side of the island from underneath the tent. The rain was coming down harder than ever now, and Erina was holding her cloak over the pot she was brewing from.

After a while Erina took the pot off the fire and brought it inside the tent, where gentle steam wafted off it.

“All finished?” Saytarani asked.

“Almost. It needs to sit for three hours,” Erina found a small hourglass in her pack and turned it over. “I cannot give Raven any tonight, but I told her that she is free to collect some before we break camp tomorrow.”

“I see,” Satyarani sat properly in the tent, hanging the damp fur cloak from one of the tent poles. “It was interesting to see Wolf with Raven, even after all of that. It was the first time I have seen her relaxed.”

“Aye…” Erina sat down properly. “It, it does not require much thought to work out why.”

“You have been somewhat antagonistic,” Satyarani pointed out. “However you have calmed down this last day.”

“That is some relief,” Erina rubbed her eyes. “Lack of sleep has been affecting me as well, I do not have energy to start an argument… and… I am reminded of why Wolf and I were friends,” Erina lay her staff across her lap. “And I no longer think she is lying. That display earlier… I do not think that could be faked, not for as long as that.”

“Then you would be wise to tell her that.”

“That I will, that I will,” Erina looked out at the rain. “She should be back before morning.”

“I will trust your judgement on that matter, you know her better than I do.”

“I am not so certain of that. I know the old Wolf would be back before dawn. I cannot be quite so certain nowadays.”

“You are all different people, and people change.”

“Aye,” Erina looked over at Satyarani. “I must ask, you do not know anyone here. Why do you still aid us?”

“I knew Raven, Raven of Old,” Satyarani corrected. “He is a good man, and I am here to aid him. I will admit that this island has taken some getting used to, and the magic here is very different to that of my country. However, it does have its charm.”

“If this is successful then all of Alaunus would be in debt to you twice over.”

“Then I will know who to call should my homeland ever be in danger.”

“That is a deal I would be happy to make.”

“I do not find it likely anytime soon, but as I understand, you are not mortal.”

“I was not mortal since I carved my staff,” Erina lifted it slightly to make the point. “The magic of the Enchanted Oak can change you.”

“I see, so you were once mortal?”

“Aye.”

“Raven of Old I recall being born immortal, for he could not enter the Chamber of the Three-Headed Serpent, what of Wolf?”

“I am uncertain, though it is likely that she is the same. They are both unusual individuals. Their ability to change form is not confined to their Staffs of Power, it is an ability they possessed since birth, as far as we know,” Erina paused to think, “as for this new Raven, I cannot say for certain. I do not know of anyone who has passed on their staff and mantle in such a way before.”

“We will have to wait and see I suppose,” Satyarani drew a knee up and rested an arm on it. “I myself am fashioned from the earth of my homeland. I was never mortal.”

“I see. I do not think I have heard of such a thing before.”

“The world has many magics, many secrets. Your Cyrus seems like the kind of man who would wish to learn all of them.”

“Aye. I fancy if he could spend his life travelling and learning new magics, he would.”

“What is stopping him?”

“…I do not entirely know. I should ask him when we meet up again.”

“As long as he obeys the laws of my land, he will be welcome in my country.”

“Did Raven obey the laws of your land?”

“For the most part. He did strain against them at times, and lose his temper several times. His anger was understandable, but there are laws in my homeland that cannot be broken in order to retrieve the Elixir of Life.”

“I can imagine,” a fond smile crossed Erina’s face. “He was always somewhat impatient. And could have quite the temper when he felt that not enough was being done.”

“Indeed, that sounds about right. The Raven of now does seem much more patient.”

“Aye, that she is. I wonder if she feels as though she has to prove herself? I do hope that is not the case.”

“Raven of Old casts a long shadow. It will be difficult for her to step from it.”

“If she can free Raven of Old and keep Nevar in the desolate realm, she will certainly step from his shadow.”

“Indeed,” Satyarani looked outside the tent, watching the rain fall. Erina followed her gaze, and the two fell into companionable silence.

---

Hoo boy, still not certain about the dissociation, but there you go I guess. Some time away from people and with wolves will be good for her I think

Erina and Satyarani talk of immortality. I had to change this real quick since I rewatched a Secret Temple story compilation yesterday, which had some info I had forgotten. Including the fact that Raven of Old was born immortal. This is important because I have a whole thought dump on immortality in the Raven series and that did answer one of the questions I had. I just had to separate Erina's thoughts from my own.It's mostly that Secret Temple often uses the term 'born mortal', implying that Raven of Old is not, but Nevar is, and I would assume Erina is too, which leads to the idea that possession of a Staff of Power can make you immortal, but then there's the whole of using it for evil taking time off your life and if that's the case how is Nevar still alive, what decides what is an evil deed? Is that why Raven of Old will not attack dishonourably, because it might be deemed evil by, something? And where in bloody hell do the Warriors with Staffs fit into this?! I was talking about this with my beta writer @fairyofsomething​ and honestly, I had thought that having a Staff of Power made you a sorcerer (to use DnD terms), but now it seems more like a warlock thing! Still, I have thoughts, that will be organised, somewhat, and put separately somewhere. Since you know, I'm overthinking a children's game show that might not have had as much thought put in.

Several hours later Wolf stepped through the portal into warmer lands. The green was verdant and a chill, but comparatively warmer breeze teased the edge of her cloak.

“My apologies Raven, I had to inform the Giants of my leave,” Wolf stated to the woman in black leather armour, holding a staff with a raven’s head. “Otherwise I came as soon as you called.”

“And I am glad that you did,” Raven paused before her face broke into a broad grin. “Wolf.”

Wolf returned the smile and walked over to Raven, pulling her into a fierce hug.

“It is good to see you again,” Raven said before the hug separated.

“Aye, I cannot agree more.”

“Tell me, how fares the Land to the North?”

“It fares well. There is not further sign of rot and the Heart Tree thrives. How do you fare?”

Raven pressed her lips together. “I will explain in more detail when everyone is here.”

“Everyone? Who else have you called?”

“Allies of Raven of Old. Satyarani from the Lands to the East, if she is able.”

“And?” Wolf prompted since Raven wasn’t continuing.

“Cyrus the Astronomer… and Princess Erina.”

Wolf’s eyes went wide. “Raven…”

“I am aware, I am sorry Wolf, but trust me. I have my reasons.”

“This will not end well,” Wolf shook her head, taking a step back. “I do not know what you have planned, but it is unlikely that she will tolerate my place in it.”

“I need you in this, and I need her.”

“Then this will not be pretty,” Wolf sighed. “I will follow you, on that you have my word, but my presence may cause Erina to refuse to aid you.”

“We will talk when she arrives,” Raven decided, and Wolf reluctantly nodded.

The wind picked up and a plume of dust blew in and hovered in place. Before their eyes the dust parted and the wind died down, revealing a human figure.

A woman stood tall in an orange sleeveless shirt and a floaty, ethereal pale orange skirt with loose orange trousers underneath. A gold necklace lay around her throat and a gold headpiece formed three circles down her forehead, while her black hair fell down her back like a waterfall.

Once the dust cleared she looked around and her gaze landed on Raven. Her eyes narrowed for a moment.

“You must be Raven,” she noted.

“I am indeed. Not who you were expecting I am sure,” Raven inclined her head. “Still, welcome Satyarani.”

“Thank you,” Satyarani inclined her head briefly as well. “I was lucky to have made it here, I have to carry a piece of my homeland to remain stable in this land Raven,” she indicated to a pouch on her belt. “I fear I may not be able to aid you for more than a few weeks.”

“That is more than sufficient, thank you for coming.”

“I will admit I was curious; I have not heard from your predecessor in many years.”

“He is why we are here,” Raven informed, catching Wolf’s attention. “I should introduce you. Satyarani, this is Wolf, Guardian of the North. Wolf, this is Satyarani, Princess of the Eastern Land.”

“Your highness,” Wolf did a form of curtsey.

“Guardian,” Satyarani did a half bow. “It is a pleasure. Although from your accent I would have assumed that you shared Raven’s homeland.”

“In fact, I do,” Wolf admitted. “It is… a long story. One you will most likely hear if Raven’s other guests arrive.”

“You do not need to glare at me Wolf,”

“I only wish you had informed me before I arrived.”

“How did you intend for me to do that? The runestone you gave me did not allow for complex messages!”

Wolf’s hackles raised, but she took a step back and ran a hand down her face. “My… my apologies Raven. You are correct on that matter.”

“Would I be correct to assume that you know who else Raven has called?” Satyarani asked.

“Aye. My apologies Satyarani, I hope this does not give you a poor impression of me. I am on edge.”

“So I see.”

A circular portal opened and two more figures stepped through. Wolf felt her hackles rise again, but stepped back as they came through.

An older man dressed in blue robes, with white hair and beard and carrying a staff topped with a ringed planet. Following him was a woman with thick blonde hair that tumbled down her back, dressed in leather armour and a red cloak. In her hand she also carried a staff, topped with a wooden crown.

Cyrus looked around, carefully noting the three women in front of him before turning to Raven.

“Ah! You must be the Warrior who took Raven’s mantle! Excellent excellent, a pleasure to finally meet you!” he strode towards Raven and warmly shook her hand.

Raven was a little taken aback, but recovered. “And you must be Cyrus the Astronomer, I have heard great things.”

Cyrus chuckled. “I am glad, I am glad. Now of course, this is Princess Erina,” he gestured to the woman who had come with him.

Erina hadn’t been paying as much attention. Like Cyrus she had scanned the small group when she arrived, and her eyes had immediately landed on Wolf.

Wolf hadn’t looked away, watching as Erina’s eyes glanced over her staff, and the princess came to her own conclusions.

As Cyrus introduced her Erina’s gaze moved and her demeanour changed. Her face softened into a smile and she walked over to Raven.

“It is pleasure to meet you,” Erina spoke cordially. “And I will admit, a surprise. I had not heard from Raven in some time. Not since the Ultimate Battle.”

“That is why I have called you all here,” Raven informed, taking a step back. “Although first I should make sure that everyone is familiar with each other each other. This is Satyarani, an ally of Raven’s from many years ago.”

Satyarani nodded, and Cyrus’s eyes lit up in recognition at the name.

“Ah yes! I do believe Raven went to your lands in search of the Elixer of Life to break Nevar’s curse on Alaunus.”

“He did indeed, and his Warriors were successful in this endeavour.”

“Yes, it was a great relief when he returned. I thank you for your aid.”

Satyarani smiled and nodded, and Raven continued introductions.

“And this, as the two of you may remember-” she gestured to Wolf, and Cyrus interrupted.

“Ah yes, Wolf, it has been some time.”

“Aye. That it has,” Wolf responded stiffly.

Erina looked at Raven. “What possessed you to summon Wolf to your aid?”

Wolf went stiff and her knuckles turned white on her staff.

“Wolf called for my aid not long ago. I assumed that I could call on her for aid,” Raven responded neutrally.

“I see,” Erina glared at Wolf. “And you had the audacity to call to Raven for help when something went wrong in the land you had been exiled to?”

“You need not remind me,” Wolf growled. “And my other option was to let that land fall to Nevar and die.”

“I am surprised that you did not follow that option.”

“You assume much, Princess,” Wolf growled through gritted teeth. “And yet you still struggle to listen.”

“Raven,” Cyrus interrupted loudly. “May I ask why you have summoned us all here? You have asked many powerful people to meet.”

“Aye, that I have,” Raven looked relieved to not have to listen to Wolf and Erina snipping at each other. “As you have all noticed, I am not the Raven you are familiar with. The one I call ‘Raven of Old’ attempted to seal Nevar within a desolate dimension during the Ultimate Battle. The spell unfortunately and unexpectedly pulled Raven of Old into the realm as well. I collected the six emblems and attempted to free him, but I only summoned his Staff of Power,” she gestured with the staff, “and as such I became Raven in his stead. We have steadily been gathering the talismans and Power Rings to attempt once again to return him to this realm.”

“But would that not return Nevar to this realm as well?” Satyarani interjected. “The same spell sent them both to this desolate realm, then breaking the spell would return both of them.”

“That is why I called you all here,” Raven gestured to the four of them. “You are all powerful allies to either myself or to Raven of Old. I had hoped that between the five of us, we could hold Nevar off long enough to allow Raven of Old to return and leave Nevar trapped.”

Wolf took several steps back, both hands gripping her staff as Cyrus began to ask further questions about Raven’s plan. Erina and Satyarani started adding their thoughts, which all became a dull roar in Wolf’s ears.

This, this could not be the reason that Raven had called her here. Yet, Wolf had already given her word. Even as her stomach churned, her battered sense of honour would not allow her to turn away from this proposed quest.

Satyarani, Cyrus and Erina continued to discuss the plan, and Raven excused herself from the conversation, approaching Wolf.

“Are you well my friend? I know this is a lot to ask of you.”

“You are correct, you are asking much of me my friend,” Wolf didn’t look at Raven, finding the grass enthralling. “You ask much of me to be here with Erina and Cyrus, with the addition of battling Nevar…”

“If you feel that you cannot complete this quest, then you may withdraw. I will not think any less of you.”

“I gave you my word that I would follow you in this.”

“And I return it to you. You have no obligation to me.”

“My battered honour would beg to differ my friend.”

“Your honour will not be much use if you cannot fight,” Raven countered. “I do not doubt your skill, but I worry for your mind.”

“As do I,” Wolf absent-mindedly rubbed her temple. “It may not even come to that. Erina is the only one who can allow me onto the Island of Alaunus, and as I have said before, she may not grant me that.”

“I will speak with her,” Raven assured. “But if your mind cannot cope with this quest, then I understand.”

Wolf gave a tense half smile before looking over at the other three. “I fear they may not feel the same way.”

“It does not matter.”

Wolf shook her head. “But it does. It does to me. You forget that I have known Cyrus and Erina for far longer than you have. Despite all that has happened, I find that I still care about their opinion of me,” Wolf attempted to smile, but it fell flat. “Pathetic, is it not?”

“I was not going to say that,” Raven tilted her head. “Come closer, listen, then decide. Does that sound fair to you?”

“Aye.”

Raven nodded and walked back to the discussion. Wolf took a deep breath and followed behind.

---

Aaaaand we're back! With exposition! To be fair Wolf wouldn't know most of this so it isn't entirely useless exposition

Once again my friend @fairyofsomething beta read and came up with the title, and for that I thank them immensely.

A quick pronounciation guide so that we're all on the same page. 

Satyarani is pronounced how it's spelt. Sat-ya-rani

Alaunus is Allow-nus