To Sister Amelie, Tender of the Garden

[Phoebe]

Sister Amelie, Touched by Kula

I thank you for helping me through getting used to the Well, and for what you've shown me, and I apologize for my aid in the auction those days ago being pithy and meager. If I may, I have a single request.

This is the land the Pilgrim shall land upon- I wish to learn how this has moved the hearts of its denizens. Are there any in the Well I should seek, those who know the Cupholder's legacy, and what it truly means? Even if all they possess are opinions, I would seek them.

Apologies for the intrusion
NONON

[Fortuna Imperatrix Mundi]

Hziran 5, IY 7788


Nonon,

I shall give a longer answer than is perhaps required. There is a prophecy which guides we Sibylline. In brief, it may be writ: "There shall be a Pilgrim, who in virtue shall realize the Chalice, from which the waters shall flow and Paradise return to the world."

These words have been written in a thousand ways, in a thousand places, in a thousand times. From the Age of the Caliphate in its glory to the words of our beloved Princess Faziima in this Age of Ash. They have echoed through the Ages, for they are wrought of the Wheel itself.

The prophecy is clear. The Pilgrim shall be known.

And as the secret gardens of Bel-Ishun lie wounded, a fortress of the Wyld's power against the Ash; as Life within the Great Desert has taken up thorns to defend itself; as the meek so-beloved of Kula strive and struggle, all await the realization of this prophecy.

The Pilgrim, striving. The Pilgrim, virtuous. The Pilgrim, to lead the peoples. The Pilgrim, chalice-bearer. In every story, in every tale, the Pilgrim must be known.

And so we seek, and the Cinquefoil Quest marches on.

Ask of Alejandro, who we love, but who struggles with his place in the world. Ask of Aurelio, who has sought to lead, but grapples with the weight and meaning of his charge. Ask of Narwen, who shall sing you a song of hope.

And ask of yourself, if your heart is moved by the Pilgrim's promise, to what end shall it strive?

And seek me with the answer.


Wyld keep you,

Sister Amelie