Two Twisted Crowns

Ravyn, Jespyr, the Nightmare, and Elspeth sit on the sand. A clawed creature with silver eyes appears, identifying herself as the Spirit of the Wood. She greets them all, including Elspeth.

In Elm’s chambers, Hauth activates his Scythe Card and commands Elm and Ione to be immobile and quiet. Hauth tells them that Linden contacted him through the Nightmare Card and got him the Maiden to help him heal. He begins to hit Elm and imposes the Maiden Card on Ione again. He stabs her in the chest, and Elm is forced to watch her die. When Hauth is no longer able to sustain the Scythe Card’s pain, he releases Elm, who immediately goes to Ione’s side. Minutes go by, and finally, Ione begins to heal. Elm promises Hauth he will kill him. Filick appears, and Elm implores him to help Ione, but Hauth stops him. The King then arrives and embraces Hauth.

The Spirit opens her own stomach and takes out the Twin Alders Card. She offers it to Ravyn, and the Nightmare tells him if he uses the Card’s magic, it will bring about a meeting of minds without a sense of time. He warns him to choose his words carefully with her.