The Children of When (Complete)

Chapter 39: Lyricus

Belle's first thought after all the excitement was to send a message to the wolf, thanking him for his help. The wolf bowed his head slightly, and loped back off into the trees. She hugged Leah and Raff, laughing, and marvelling at what they had accomplished. And then Lyricus stood in front of them, telling them how amazing they all were, but looking directly into her eyes. She smiled shyly at him, her stomach doing backflips, as his eyes lit up at her acknowledgement.

She looked around for Raff and Leah,

and spied them sitting and talking by the horses. She almost applauded when Leah's head dropped onto Raff's shoulder. It was about time!

Midnight was contentedly cropping grass nearby, and she couldn't resist the urge to surprise him.

So, did you miss me? Her mind touched his softly.

Midnight's head flew up, his eyes meeting hers. Of course. And I see you have also discovered how to return my communication. His voice flowed smoothly into her mind, so different from the staccato tapping of the spider's voice.

I have learned a lot in such a short time. It has been a very long day!

I look forward to hearing all about it when you have the time. He lowered his head back to the grass, and continued grazing.

Her eyes returned to Lyricus, and she almost laughed at the confused look on his face. He had obviously been watching her, and wondering what she was doing.

"Sorry Lyricus, I was just talking to Midnight. Now what were you saying?" This time she did burst out laughing at the look on his face.

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Belle had been surprised by the cheering and excitement they'd encountered as they rode up to the suspension bridges leading to the Oracle's home. Seeing her confusion, Lyricus had moved his horse closer. He leaned towards her, and explained that when Midnight, Solange and Rogue had returned alone, the Oracle had immediately known something was wrong. He'd sent the elven warriors to their aid. Belle had just nodded, unable to speak while his leg was brushing up against hers.

Leah and Belle had trudged to their room, to find hot water ready for their bath, and a fresh evening dress laid out on their beds. They would both have loved to soak in the bath for hours, and then climb into bed, but they knew everyone would be gathered in the meeting room, waiting to hear the whole story.

Now Belle sat at the table in the meeting room, feeling so full she thought she might burst. She felt happy and relaxed for the first time since... Well, she couldn't really remember ever feeling this relaxed. During the course of dinner, the children had taken turns in relating the events of their day. Belle and Leah had grinned at each other over Raff's obvious dilemma; that of being torn between stopping eating long enough to talk, and talking quickly enough so he could continue to eat.

Belle turned to Madame Persimmons and smiled. "Okay, so Madame Persimmons, I think it's your turn? We were so worried when we heard what happened at the Fey Academy!"

All eyes turned to Madame Persimmons, as she told them what had happened since she'd last seen them. After leaving the Fey Academy, they had travelled to the village, where Tyranius had a secluded house ready for their arrival. Madame Persimmons had been locked in a bedroom, where she had spent the rest of the day, and that night, worried sick about the children's safety. She had overheard Tyranius dispatching messages to his many spies to search for the children.