It was well into the morning, the sun having crested the eastern wood, when Satu received word to attend the Air Circle. Having been training as an Elder, with the vision of being a Great, she was unsurprised by the request, given the excitement of the previous day.
After closing the discussion she was supporting between two upset brothers, the small woman made her way up to the Circle, situated far above the center, among the foothills, from which one could see for many trees. While the Elder Circle was housed in the middle of the center and fashioned after an ordinary (albeit larger) dome, every element’s Circle was designed and located to reflect and suit the work and being of that element. Air was high up, open with large windows to allow for flow and a pleasant breeze, and outfitted with comfortable seats arranged throughout to encourage discussion.
There were a few in the space when Satu arrived, arranged in small groups, talking softly. The Air Circle was a space, not just for those of the Air to connect and work with their magic, but to also invite those in need of support in moving through conflict and difficult conversations. Additionally, it was a space where one could speak with those of the Air who were particularly gifted at helping others talk through their inner turmoils. As such, the Air Circle radiated a pleasant, calm atmosphere, created by those holding the space.
Satu was unsurprised to find that Veeta was the Air Elder waiting for her.
“Beautiful day, Satu,” the older woman greeted her warmly, embracing her.
Satu returned the gesture and greeting, “Beautiful day, Veeta.”
Of all the Air Elders, Veeta was the one Satu was the closest to and felt the most familiar with. While Veeta would never be considered “reserved” by the standards of Lydia and the rest of the Empire One folk, the thoughtful woman coupled almost exclusively with her partner, Lin, a formidable Fire Elder who enjoyed talking almost as much as Satu. Satu had spent many an evening conversing on all matters with the two at the couple’s dome, which they shared with Lin’s sister and young sister-son.
Veeta gestured for Satu to join her in a corner seating area. Satu followed her, settling down on a large down cushion opposite the woman who held her gaze in silence for a moment before speaking.
“I suppose you’ve heard of our new visitors,” she began, chuckling. To not have already been aware of the news would have required an Azul to live under the Big Rock. Satu smiled and nodded her head, waiting. “The Elders of Air have been long in discussion over what this arrival means, and how we as a people may respond.” Again, not a surprise. While it was known the Elder Circle had disbanded the evening prior after a long discussion, it would have then been customary for each Elder to return to discussion with their element after a break and refreshment. With such an odd happening, Satu did not doubt that each Circle had spoken well into the night.
Despite this, Veeta’s eyes were bright as she continued. “While there continues to be…disagreement over what these arrivals bring to Omla, we have agreed that, particularly with Great Elder Ya’s telling a few turns ago, there may be much we can learn from looking at our histories and tales as far as how we may approach this shift. And,” the woman paused, and looked a bit sideways at Satu, seemingly bracing herself. “We have agreed that you should be the Air to take on this task.”
At that, Satu was, for the first time, surprised. Shocked, even. She shook her head, trying to make sense of it. “Why me?,” she asked, “why not Tura, or one of the other scholars?” Indeed, Tura, Satu’s sister-daughter was the most gifted scholar in the community.
“Well, we did discuss offering the task to one of those more skilled and familiar with the texts.” At this Satu raised her eyebrows in agreement. “But after consideration, it was realized that asking you to do it would have the added benefit of providing essential knowing in your path to becoming an Elder, particularly if you are called to be a Great.”
Satu nodded. At only forty and three turns, she was rather young to have begun the training and learnings one must undertake to step into the role of Elder in their community, with Veeta herself being her primary teacher thus far.
Her teacher now continued, “as an Elder, especially as a Great Elder, it is needed for you to know the tellings and histories of the land. It is also especially important when one is tasked with holding discussions amongst our peoples.”
Veeta sighed and patted Satu on the arm. “I know you loathe having to be cooped up in the library, not moving, with only the texts to keep you company…but at least it is a beautiful space, light and airy.” The center library, like the Air Circle, was crafted to reflect elements’ being. “It is a tremendous task, I know,” she continued, “and it is a very important one. This became clear to us last night—as did your role in accepting it for the Azul.”
At this, Satu stared at the woman. For her to speak as such indicated that the Circle had entered into visions—which held even more sway in how her people approached matters. Though not always clear, that which came through in a vision, especially one held by Elders, was received as truth.
Satu inclined her head. “Then I must accept this task for our world,” she paused. “On one condition—we have a long dinner together when I’m done.”
Veeta’s kind face broke out into a wide grin. “Agreed, my friend!,” she exclaimed, pulling Satu into a deep hug once more.