Wings of Grace

Chapter 12

I would like to thank Catticus for the amazing dialogue for Ennar. The face on the scroll was my own work. The scroll was from pinterest by an unknown artist. The incredible photo shopping was done by Wedge-Tailed Eagle who wrote 'Legacy'. I hope you enjoy this chapter.

     "The warning was not heeded. The White Swan was to prevail all and since she cannot be found, someone will have to take her place."

     "We have run out of time. It must be done. "

     "Trust we are not too late."

     "He must be told as soon as he returns. There will be no more delays, Ennar will choose the next Queen on the rise of the blue moon. It is important that we remove all external influences. The bloodline has to be pure. "

     "Are we all in agreeance?"

     All five Elders, seated around two large ancient tree roots in the council chambers, voiced their acceptance.

     "It is done."

     As the last word was spoken the roots moved towards each other, entwining, binding themselves together forming an old weathered scroll with two black symbols impressed into its edge. The scroll started to rise into the air, slowly unwinding. A dark, 3-dimensional face appeared from within the tree fibres, stretching the aged yellow parchment in the process. The cavernous threads in the voice vibrated and echoed across the chamber, silencing all.

     "It is done."

                                                                       *******

     As soon as Conny landed within the Arlentora palace grounds, Lyon was shouting orders, even as he carried Lara into one of the luxurious bedrooms with deep red wooden panelling on the walls and fine ornate cream furnishings.

     The doctor was sent for immediately. Conny as a scavenger, only fed on dead animals and was so excited when she saw the various types of carrion they had prepared for her.

     Both Sarah and Henry were to be given anything they needed, although they were not impressed when they were refused entrance to Lara's room. They had to wait outside, pacing. Well... Henry paced. Sarah, on being reacquainted with her worried husband, quickly brought him up to date with her recent ordeal.

     Lyon couldn't take his eyes from Lara's still form, lying on the bed. Her breathing had settled. Her bloodstained, green dress contrasting against her very pale skin. At least the bleeding had stopped. He tenderly moved a long strand of blonde hair covering her cheek behind her ear.

     He loved her. It was as simple as that. The most beautiful smile appeared across his face. One of honesty, warmth and tenderness.

     Fighting it any more was a lost cause.

     But it was soon  followed by bitter sadness as he knew it could never be.

     A commotion at the bedroom door announced the arrival of Doctor Alexander Crolen and his two female assistants, who immediately requested Lyon's departure; something he did reluctantly.

     On closing the door, he was instantly accosted by several dignitaries vying for his attention and an urgent message from the Elders council. Lyon knew they were not impressed with his decision to go and rescue Lara, when there was so much at stake, and so he took his time responding to their request.

     Not knowing how Lara was faring was making it very difficult for Lyon to concentrate on other matters. He knew the old Doctor could not be hurried, even to please a King. He was the best and he would only talk to Lyon after he had completed his consultation. It was no use waiting around. He left word for them to contact him immediately after the Doctor was finished.