Time Lapse

Chapter 9 ~ Fire in Caryopsis ~

~~~Author note. Nora here, I wanted to let readers know this chapter contains some themes that might be triggering for some readers. Not just SA, but the end of the chapter contains a conversation, in some detail of an event that took place in the past. If you're someone who has struggled or is currently still struggling with the past trauma of SA, this chapter might not be for you.

Two weeks ago

Vice-captain Lant approached the sturdy wooden door, his retinue of fey trailing closely behind under Rak's vigilant watch. Despite their recent skirmish with the bandits, they found solace in the protective presence of Histolytica's vice-captain knight. The younger fey and Shadid stuck close, although Lant dismissed their proximity with an air of casual indifference.

With a patient stance, Lant surveyed the familiar surroundings, taking in the towering beige walls adorned with clay tiles and the ornate patterns adorning the grand wooden door.

A soft voice emanated from behind the closed door, its tone indistinct yet distinctly feminine, "Who is it?"

"It's Sir Lant. I'm here on urgent business for Lord Byvren," Lant replied promptly, his voice conveying urgency.

"O-oh. I'll inform him. Please wait outside," the voice responded, fading as the speaker hurried off to relay the message.

As he waited, Lant turned his attention to the subdued bandits and their lone defiant female companion. With measured steps, he approached the prisoner, his demeanor calm yet firm. "There's no point in resisting, ma'am. The desert lies ahead, and hungry wolves await. Rest assured, and justice will be served for your actions. Thankfully, no one was harmed except perhaps yourselves."
"Don't bother running, ma'am. There's only desert ahead, with hungry wolves waiting," Lant remarked, his approach deliberate and measured, starkly contrasting to his earlier agility. "Rest assured; justice will be given to you and your companions. But it won't be overly harsh, considering no one was injured. Except perhaps for the three of you."

With a confident stride, Lant turned away, leaving Shadid and the young fey to watch near the door, alert for any approaching figures.

"Do you think they're taking too long?" the young fey girl inquired, her voice tinged with impatience.

Shadid shook his head, "We can't afford to rush in recklessly."

Meanwhile, Lant attempted to open the door again, but finding it locked, he swiftly decided on a more forceful approach. With a rapid motion, he delivered a powerful kick, splintering the door and sending it crashing to the ground."

"I'd usually agree, Mr.Shadid, but this is important," Lant asserted firmly, striding purposefully into the estate. The two fey fell silent at his command, falling into step behind him, with the third fey trailing close behind.

As they entered, guards descended from the estate's front door, their hands hovering near their weapons as they braced themselves for potential trouble. Their tension eased upon recognizing Captain Lant, though they couldn't hide their exasperation at the sight of the fey entourage and their captives.

"Here he comes, always with more people than we can handle!"

"Who do you do this every damn time? Hasn't Lord Byvren told you to stop bringing so many guests?"

The guard's complaints filled the air, reflecting a sentiment shared by many. While witnessing the scene, Rak felt a sense of solidarity, knowing he wasn't the only one annoyed by Sir Lant's actions. "Sir Lant! How often do you bring guests to Lord Byvren's estate?" he challenged.

Lant felt a grumble rise within him at the unnecessary attention from all the guards and raised his hand in the air. Rak and the other men flinched, immediately ceasing their bickering as Lant's commanding gesture silenced them all.