The Serpent's Song

by S. Robertson

  Myttrwn, just before bringing the session to a close telepathically shared a few thoughts with Sirona. “I’m going to miss this lively group. For the first time in ages I’ve been challenged not only with their constant questions but with training a student like Angi. It’s good we’re going to Earth, but what they don’t know is our need to cope with so much verbal noise. We’ll have to schedule silent retreats.” Myttrwn then said to the group, “Sirona and I will leave you now to talk with Corb and his team. I can assure you the future will be clarified once we’re reassembled on Earth.”

  Wolfram had one more question, “By the way, Myttrwn when do you envision us returning to your kingdom?”

  “Ah yes,” replied Myttrwn, fully understanding Wolfram’s question, “At the earliest, the next trip can’t be programmed until Corb has set up the new gate in Scotland, and then you might want a different group to visit our kingdom. Is that any help?”

  “It certainly is,” replied a relieved Wolfram as he glanced at Angi.

  * * *

  The Palace

  Out of the blue Angi and Andrew were summoned to the Palace for a meeting with the Queen, no reason given. As they made their way up the hill they speculated on various possibilities but came to no conclusion. Accompanied by their Palace escort, they walked in relative silence to the Queen’s private reception room.

  Upon arrival they were greeted by Sirona, who was her usual friendly self but noncommittal as to the purpose of the meeting. Escorted into an open patio they discovered a long table with seven chairs. Myttrwn turned from speaking with the Queen giving them a warm welcoming nod. Sirona indicated which seats were reserved for them, and they, as was required, stood until the Queen was seated.

  “We are expecting two more members to join us,” said the Queen, “They should be along momentarily.”

  Within minutes two huge men entered the patio. Sirona rose to greet them. The taller of the two was more than seven feet in height, a powerfully built man with reddish hair and a somber expression. The shorter one by only inches had blond hair, a more athletic build and an outgoing demeanour.

  “They must be family,” thought Andrew as they hugged Sirona greeting her in Gaelic. Then bowing to the Queen they took the two empty seats waiting for them. “They must be Sirona’s brothers, they match the description we have of their father.”

  To confirm his assumption Sirona turned to Angi and Andrew saying, “These are my two brothers.” Pointing to the taller one, she continued, “This is Oengus Og my eldest brother and this is my second eldest, Bran Ai. Neither speak English so they will be using a translating device to understand our discussions. I will translate any of their comments.”

  In Gaelic, Sirona proceeded to introduce Angi and Andrew who, having learned from Sirona the basic Gaelic greetings of her kingdom, responded accordingly and reached out and shook the powerful hands of both men.

  Sensing the importance of the occasion, Angi was left with her own thoughts, “Why just Andrew and me, why not the whole team? The Queen, Sirona and Myttrwn seem downright serious about something. In addition, the Queen wouldn’t summon her two sons from other planets for anything trivial. But it’s good to finally meet Sirona’s brothers. They are certainly powerful individuals if size and presence mean anything. I wonder what’s up. Have I done something to displease the Queen? That might explain why just Andrew and I were asked to attend. We’re within days of leaving so I hope not. The suspense is unnerving.”

  Andrew’s thoughts were on the same tack as he tried to fathom the purpose of the gathering, “It must be something of importance for the Queen to request her two sons to be present. Oh, if only I had their telepathic powers I would already know what this was about and eliminate the secrecy. Even Sirona and Myttrwn aren’t revealing much.”

  The Queen, Sirona and Myttrwn knowing the thoughts of Angi and Andrew realized it was best to get on with the proceedings before speculation overcame reality.

  “Because of the information which is about to be presented I am going to turn this meeting over to Myttrwn,” said the Queen.

  On that signal Myttrwn took charge saying, “Angi and Andrew, as you will recall when your group first arrived in this kingdom there was some delay in receiving clearance for you to move about. This slowness had a reason which we are about to reveal.”

  “Yes,” replied Andrew, “I remember.” He said little else wanting Myttrwn to proceed.

  Myttrwn continued, “In our initial scanning of your DNA we discovered something odd in Angi’s profile. Perhaps this would be easier to explain if you could see the data.” With that he conjured up a large screen along a vacant wall which showed Angi’s DNA results. “Now, I would like you to compare Angi’s DNA with Sirona’s.” A second reading appeared below the first. And before anyone could respond, he added. “I would also like to add two more profiles, that of Sirona’s two brothers.”

  Angi and Andrew stared at the information trying to make sense of what they were looking at.

  Andrew spoke first, “Myttrwn I’m no expert in DNA data but am I seeing a similarity in all four DNAs?”

  Angi, feeling an ache in her stomach, wanted to reject any such assumption, blurted out, “That’s impossible.” But as she re-examined the data she was forced to add, “But even if there are similarities, it’s out of the question.” Confused, she added, “I don’t understand.”

  Andrew interceded, “I expect Myttrwn you have run numerous tests to confirm this?”

  “Yes, Andrew,” replied Myttrwn, “I can assure you I have run many tests and have discussed this at great length with the royal family members at this table. This was not a matter to be taken lightly.”

  Angi, feeling a cold shiver up her spine, pressed on, “But Myttrwn this can’t be. You told us there has been no contact between our two planets in centuries. I come from fairly ordinary people with no evidence of royal or any other distinguished bloodline.” She looked around the table trying to read the faces of how this information was being received by the royal family. Then a thought flashed into her mind, “Oh God, does this mean I can’t return home? No, please God may it not be that.”

  The turmoil in Angi’s mind registered with alarm in the minds of the Queen, Sirona and Myttrwn and prompted the Queen to respond, “Oh, my dear that is not the case.” Then realizing Andrew was not telepathic, she explained, “Andrew, Angi thinks that this information may prevent her from going home. I wish to assure her that is not so. Angi we are here to share this information with you and chose Andrew, being one of your elders, to accompany you for this revelation. We just want to discuss the significance of this information.”

  Relieved, Angi asked, “Then Myttrwn can you explain how this can be. I’m completely lost.”

  “Angi, there are a number of signs which when pulled together, present an extraordinary message. Let me elaborate. First, you were the one chosen to wear this ancient medallion, having, as I told you before, a genetic pattern which prevented you from experiencing a grievous reaction. Next, you revealed that you may be in possession of the lost Harp of Dana, a great treasure from this kingdom. Our records indicate that it might turn up at this time. But, if true, it is not in our kingdom but on Earth, possibly a gift to an ancient Irish king who likely was an expert harp player. Somehow this reached you. Then, one of our Sages, Adawee, chose to appear to you, a great privilege in our kingdom. And finally I too discovered as your instructor that you possess an unfathomable inner ability in mastering the complexities of your medallion which I have yet to understand. These coupled with this DNA data told me that you are certainly an anomaly, one chosen at this time as a possible link between our two worlds. Such signs add great justification to our venture. In my extended life, I have discovered that on rare occasions we are gifted with such unexplainable symbols to let us know that we are not entirely in control. However astonishing this list of marvels, the cosmos is confirming that this is the time for our two worlds to proceed and you are its linchpin.” />
  “But could these signs be just coincidental?” asked Angi.

  “One might be a coincidence, two at the most, but not all,” replied Myttrwn, “The probabilities are just too great.”

  Andrew realizing the uniqueness of Myttrwn’s list propelled him to ask, “Myttrwn, have you ever encountered anything like this before?

  “Just once, some centuries ago,” replied Myttrwn, “And at that time it was an older man.” Myttrwn was hoping that Andrew wouldn’t ask the next obvious question as to who this individual was or what he became. He was rescued by Angi’s question.

  “I suppose one might be pressed to ask, why me?” asked Angi.

  Myttrwn was quick to reply, “That’s a question you might ask Adawee when next you meet. The answer to this needs to come from a much higher source than myself.”

  Angi didn’t wish to be impolite but had to ask, “Myttrwn, if my DNA is similar to this royal family, what does it mean for me?”

  Sirona smiled, “It means that you and I are family Angi and for me that’s a delightful revelation.”

  Sensing Angi’s anxiety, Oengus Og felt it was his place to say something and signaled to Sirona for her help. Sirona translated his comments. “Angi, we don’t understand how this has transpired, nor do we question Myttrwn’s tests. They are simply true. So, accepting this reality I am pleased to welcome you into this family. We have taken considerable time to review and digest this information, but the signs are clear. We make no demands on you as we expect there will be plenty of work for you to do in the years to come. It’s to our benefit to have a family member on Earth.”

  Then Sirona translated Bran Ai’s comments. “I also welcome you, Angi.” Then with a grin he added, “But I have a separate question. Where did you learn to master a throwing stick like you did in your pyramid journey which we have recently watched?”

  Not expecting the question, Angi was glad for a diversion, “In my early education system I belonged to what we call a sports track team. There I learned to not only compete in running events against those of my own age but also to compete in throwing events such as a javelin, your throwing stick, as well as a shot, discus, hammer and weight.”

  “You’re very good at this,” replied Bran. “Perhaps when I learn more English we can talk again at greater length. I’ve also learned you play the harp. We shall be attending your performance tomorrow.”

  “I’m a bit rusty at harp playing right now and will do my best tomorrow. I like playing the harp but realize I must practice more.”

  Then it was time for the Queen to respond, saying, “Angi, I am pleased to welcome you into our family, having accepted the cosmic symbols as outlined by Myttrwn. You have shown yourself to be a responsible and capable representative of your planet. Adawee, one of our Sages, has also confirmed this. I am also delighted that you, Sirona and Myttrwn will be continuing your relationship as we create a long standing partnership between our two planets. I want to again make it clear that this information does not impede your travel between our planets, instead it greatly enhances it.”

  Andrew sat in amazement contemplating this latest revelation and thought to himself, “Angi never ceases to surprise me. I must acknowledge there are mysteries in this universe that have no easy explanation. This young woman, who I met just months ago, has gently opened doors to a fantastic world not only because of that medallion she wears, but now, somehow, by her genetic profile, both unexplained miracles. Myttrwn’s statement yesterday ‘expect the unexpected’ also applies to Angi herself. I could never have imagined this trip or any of its unexpected turns. I’ve been blessed tenfold.” Then a thought compelled him to ask, “Myttrwn, if Angi and Sirona have similar DNA can Sirona also wear the medallion?”

  Myttrwn had hoped this question would not arise but answered, trying not to reveal anything about Angi’s vibrational profile, “I expect not,” came his reply, “While they appear similar there are subtle differences.” He gave Andrew a glance to indicate that it would be best to stop there.

  “I see,” said Andrew, receiving Myttrwn’s non-verbal signal which caused him to wonder, “So there is more. I wonder why it’s being held back. More mystery. I’ll not press it at this point, as Angi’s already struggling with this DNA information.” Instead, he changed the topic and asked, “Myttrwn, are there any restrictions in letting our team know about this DNA information?”

  Myttrwn glanced at the Queen, who responded.

  “I see no reason why not,” replied the Queen. “I shall let it be known to our Council of Elders right after this meeting. We had to be sure of the facts and needed time for our family to discuss the implications. Myttrwn has a record of all the tests and will have this information available for our Elders. The kingdom will know by tomorrow morning.”

  The earlier unease had shifted to one of relaxed cheerfulness. More time was taken up with friendly chatter as the group got to savour this unexpected change in their lives. Angi was beginning to relax by the end of the meeting.

  Once they returned to the House of Learning Andrew called the team together. They quickly assembled as they too were curious as to why Angi and Andrew had been summoned to a special meeting with the Queen.

  Andrew first informed them that Sirona’s two brothers would be in the audience at their presentation saying, “You can’t miss them. They are both powerfully built men and will be sitting in the royal section of the theatre.”

  “Was that the only reason you were invited to the Palace?” asked Dylan.

  “No, replied Andrew, “The main reason was about Angi.” Then he divulged the details of the DNA data, the discussions and the outcome.

  There was a moment of disbelief as the team absorbed the significance of the revelation.

  Wolfram, the first to respond, said, “Angi, you are a treasure trove of mystery and it appears the cosmos agrees.” Then turning to the group he added, “Let’s take this opportunity to raise a toast to Angi, who is not only our inspiration for this wondrous venture but continues to open new vistas.”

  The team raised their mugs and glasses in a toast to Angi, all adding their own congratulatory comments on the raised status this information gave to their mission.

  Wolfram sensing Angi’s stress, took the earliest opening to whisk her away to a private spot where they could be alone.

  “Oh Wolfram, I’m beginning to feel shell-shocked,” came a moan from Angi. “Too many changes in too short a time. Just hold me before I scream.”

  “I’d be delighted,” as he pulled her close and wrapped his strong arms around her. “As your shining knight I am honoured to be holding a true princess.”

  “Please, Wolfram, let’s not go there,” said Angi, in a whisper.

  Wolfram gently spoke as he held her, “Angi, remember what I said to you before. Whatever unfolds we’ll face it together. Let this drift past. On a positive note this information will draw this kingdom and Earth closer together and that’s good for all concerned.” Wolfram continued to hold Angi knowing that life had just revealed another cosmic secret. Was there more to come?

  * * *

  The Royal Theatre

  The morning of their musical program was spent in practice, Carola pulling out every musical director’s trick to help them achieve their best performance. She had accomplished miracles given the brevity of practice time and the mixture of musical talent in the group. They left the practice in high spirits.

  In the early afternoon they accompanied the harpists to the Royal Theatre, each carrying his or her own musical instrument. The day, like most days of their time in Tir na nOg, was clear with a gentle breeze, the sun dancing off the gold, silver and gemstones on some instruments. They walked up the hill chatting happily. The group from Gaia knew this would be their gift to the kingdom, a token of gratitude for all they had learned.

  They were the first to arrive at the theatre and took their seats in the Orchestra. Carola had arranged those performing the Gaia musical piece to be seated in the
center of the musicians with the school harpists on either side. The performers sat and watched the audience proceed to their prescribed seats. The rest of their Gaia friends waved as they took their seats in a back row of the royal section.

  Watching the activities Angi thought to herself, “It’s been years since I’ve performed before an audience and this is certainly a more daunting event than any in my childhood. But we’re ready, or as ready as we’ll ever be, thanks to Carola’s efforts. She molded this program like someone composing a fine painting. All we have to do is to follow her directions and play our instruments to perfection, not a simple task. I wonder if this is what Mr. Aucoin meant when he said I would be playing my harp for the Lords of Anu………I still don’t know what that meant. Perhaps I’ll learn in time.” Then her thoughts wandered, “Isn’t it amazing, how quickly one adapts to another environment, and in this case, another world. It was good there were some similarities. Nevertheless, this is not Earth and the differences have pressed us to rethink some features of our own world. I shall miss the polite manners of these students and the wise and confident advice of Sirona and Myttrwn. I know we shall be together again but this has been a positive segment of my life. I’m still uneasy about my raised status but, I’ll adapt……….. eventually. Gran was right, life is full of mystery. I began this journey practically alone and within months have acquired two families, one on Earth and another in Tir na nOg. In addition, Wolfram and I have found each other, which has given me strength to face the future. All in all, it speaks of a wise and gentle hand guiding my journey. Now that’s a topic I must take up with Adawee when next we meet. I realize there’s a great deal of my invisible world that I know little about.”

  Two rows back sat Andrew, Morgan and Wolfram. As Wolfram watched the Royal retinue approach their seating section he commented in a whisper, “As you said Andrew, Sirona’s two brothers definitely stand out, they are huge men. I wonder if we’ll get to meet them before we leave.”