The two mice paused to sip contentedly as a murmur went up over the picnic luncheon crowd. The druid and the Claw were making their rounds.

The Claw moved from luncheon to luncheon pausing to thank the attendees. Spring meandered about but it was clear that she was scanning the crowd for a particular individual. Freya's mouth went dry when the druid locked eyes with her and smiled. It looked like the two were thanking creatures for attending their wedding. At least until…

Spring made a beeline for them.

"I do believe that we are about to speak to an honored guest," Muk said.

He munched contentedly on a piece of bread as Freya ran through all the possibilities. Perhaps the druid had heard of her exploits or about the chickens. Perhaps it was nothing.

Her ageless face gave nothing away as Muk rose to greet her.

"Druid, it is a privilege and an honor to see you again. Your presence has been missing from the last few war council meetings," he said.

With a bow he indicated that Spring should join them. Freya's voice still hadn't caught up to the current situation.

"My quartermaster, I keep hearing whispers about you and most of it," Spring nodded, her face a mask, "It makes me believe that you do well for our coalition. My interest lies in your partner today, as I believe that she may have been avoiding me. I cannot imagine why?"

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The three mice paused as Freya, still mute, offered a cup to the druid. The tea was nearly as warm as Freya's face.

"And what interest would that be, dare I ask," Freya said in a high pitched squeak,"And what purpose would it be avoiding the queen's advisor?"

Waiting for Freya to fill her cup the druid nodded in thanks. She took a large sip before answering. A serious, sober slow sip-one that said I ask the questions here. Lingering in the air, the cup didn't want to be set down either. Freya silently willed the cup down, hoping to regain her voice.

"I have reason to believe that you have the ability to become a powerful druid, to top the accomplishments of your mother or grandmother. Each year the small circle here at Yellowrock tests young maidens as well as some a bit older and more male. Those that are strong enough, they head to our city to become learned in magic."

Freya gulped down some more kapi. It was always a possibility that she would be carted off against her will-the women in her family had gone willingly. But they had chosen that on their own. There was always a chance that she might not make it.

"The contingent always leaves at the end of winter, to ensure that they reach their destination. However, recently one of my old apprentices was raised to become a full druid and I will be asking her to test you."

Muk had a warm tender look. Had he expected this? Would he understand if she left to go to join the druids and more importantly… would he follow?

"My old Gran, she explained some things to me but, I would have to go away to…" Freya's voice grew quiet.

"It's something for you to consider," Spring said, standing up, " If we are agreed then, I shall send my agent to test you soon? We have a great need for more druids. We simply must have you."

Freya started to say something but instead stopped, nodded, and then curtseyed.

"Very good. Thank you for your time."

Spring stood and turned, her every step a silent pulse against Freya's anxiety.