“We shall call the Goddess of the Sky, as you do entreat. We ask of you that you do restore our circle of stones that lies upon the plain. Raise the stones that have toppled thru neglect. You must also come to us each year at the midwinter solstice. Do not heed the pleas of the priests of the new prophet, but come and join our dance. Lie with us, and give us pleasure, as did your distant fathers,” said the wise woman, with eyes of green.

“Verily, all this I will do.”

“Behold!” said the witch.

The witches each in turn cast into the flames a secret powder - causing the flames to turn first to blue, then green, and many other mystic hues.

In the distance I saw a flash of light, followed by a thunderclap. The gale grew strong, and chill. The witches round me did gather. They each embraced me, and gave unto me a kiss.

From the dark forest strode a woman, dressed in a robe of white. She wore a glowing tiara of silver.

Boldly she came to me, and touched my cheek. The women of the sisterhood drew back.

“You are fair of face, Prince of the Isles. Verily, even the Immortals know of your wars of conquest. Long have I been alone in my realm among the stars. Come, lie with me this night. I will bear to you a son, a demigod. Come, now,” said the goddess fair.

I boldly took the arm of the Lady.

“You are immortal, Lady. Yet even a woman of heaven - still is a woman, when she lies with her lover. We will foster a line of divine kings, to rule a mighty empire, if that be your will,” I did say unto her.

The goddess led me from the forest, where her chariot did await. She bid me take the reins of the fiery steeds, and we did soar into the upper realms. Thus did begin my wars of empire and conquest.

To distant lands I led my knights. Many lands we did subdue and many were the realms I ruled. At my side, in latter years, rode my son, of whom the bards did sing.