The Maiden of Air

“Maiden Elisabeth!” A man shouted, breathlessly, as he burst through the door, with another man following in behind him. “Yes, Andrew? What is it?” A woman asked. She didn't even look up from the book she was reading, and her voice sounded a hint of annoyance. The past few weeks had been so stressful, and she had told Andrew and her other Guardian, William, that she was not to be disturbed, unless it was very important. “The Twelfth Maiden has been found.” Andrew answered. This time, she did look up. Her face full of surprise and relief. She set the book on the table next to her chair and stood up. She walked over to the large glass doors that lead out onto a balcony and opened them. The cool early morning breeze, gently, lifted her blonde curls. The comfort of her element relaxed her. “Finally.” She said in a voice so quiet, that Andrew could not hear her. “What is her condition?” She asked. “She had been attacked and sustained minor injuries. They took her to a local hospital to be taken care of.” Andrew reported. “Right.” She turned to look at the man standing behind Andrew. “William. Take the helicopter and make sure she gets here on time. Before the orientation.” “Yes, my Maiden.” William said, as he bowed to her, with his right hand over his heart. “And William?” She said. He lifted his head to look at her. “Yes, Maiden Elizabeth?” He asked. “I assume your son, Michael, is prepared to be her Guardian, and take on the responsibility of making sure she’s safe?” She asked. “Of course, Maiden Elizabeth.” He said. “Good. Take him with you. He should get to know his Maiden, as Erin should get to know her Guardian. As for her other Guardian, make sure he is preparing things for her arrival.” “Yes, Maiden Elizabeth.” He said, one last time before leaving to follow out on her orders. When he left, Elisabeth turned back to Andrew, and asked, “And what of the other young Maidens?” “They are scheduled to arrive between two and five PM.” He answered. “Good. We’re on track.” Elisabeth sighed in relief. “Make sure the banquette hall is prepared for our event tonight.” She ordered. “Consider it done, my Maiden.” Andrew bowed to her, the same as William did, and left the room. Elisabeth turned back to her balcony and began to twirl her fingers, and the dry leaves that had fallen on the stone, made a beautiful swirl of orange, red and yellow colors. “At last. The Twelfth Cycle is upon us.” She whispered to the beautiful sunrise.