by Donald White
"Yes. And he'll stay that way, only if we hurry up and take care of him."
Seeing that the women had the creature well in hand, the two men backed out the door.
Flora shook her head as she noticed their departure. Then, she busied herself about the task of removing the elf's armor. It was smeared with blood, and she had to pry the elf's hand from his breast. Now, she could see the source of the bleeding. "He’s been stabbed. We need to clean the wound immediately."
With the assistance of her two nurses, Doctor Flora succeeded in removing the armor and cleansing the affected area. "Cindy, another cloth please?"
The young nurse just stared at the elf's white, hairless chest. "So beautiful…"
"Cindy!"
“Huh? I'm sorry, doctor. I just..."
"Pay attention. Ayla, one of his lungs has filled with fluid. It needs to be drained."
"Yes, doctor."
The three women worked tirelessly until the sun dipped past the horizon. With the patient's breathing restored, Flora gave her two assistants leave to get something to eat and drink. Now alone with the elf, she sat and watched, as he rested. Cindy was right. You are beautiful. She feared to look at him for too long. Her heart had nearly stopped in her chest, when she had lifted one of his lids and seen the green glow of his eye. Even sitting this close gave her pause. He was not just an elf. He was armored in metal. He carried a sword. This was a warrior. Perhaps, even a knight of the Elfin Court.
Flora stood and looked full at the glorious creature. He was not just tall he was long. Everything about him was long: his arms, his legs, his extremities. Even his face was long, with a slight, graceful point to the chin. But those features were not just long they were sharp. Is this an eagle with arms instead of wings, and legs instead of talons? She studied him closer. Though his form had the gracefulness of a bird it seemed more like the wiry body of a great cat. She remembered the eye beneath the sloped brow. Flora placed a hand on his chest, feeling the coolness of his flesh. She had heard about elves before. But this was the first one she had seen. Now, I know why our people stand in awe of yours. You are beautiful, and just a bit frightful.
She sat beside him on the bed, inspecting the bandages. They looked out of place on him. The elf had very nearly died, earlier. Would you have died? Can you die? What kind of creature are you? Though her question was an honest one, no voice was raised in answer.
***
They were pixies. Little elves, who bloomed before adolescence and remained that way for all their days. They were also nymphets: female of gender with small, light forms. They were dark elf nymphets: olive of skin, and possessing dark glossy locks, which were braided into pigtails. Each one possessed the sharp features of the elf, but with the playful nature of the pixie.
The lesser fay sprite Lady Felicie rested comfortably against a tree, as her trio of nymphets laughed and played in the warm sun. "Such lovely girls they are: bright as the daylight, and cheerful as the birds."
Xeelee was calling to her. "Look at me, milady!" She leaped into the air, landing lightly on her feet.
Their fay said, "You did well, little one. But take care not to slip and fall."
"Yes, milady."
Smiling, the nymph watched as another of her pixies twirled herself about. "Silly little Nissa. Spin about too much, and when you stop you shall still feel as if you are spinning."
As if in response, Nissa did stop, and could not retain her balance.
The other two girls laughed as she fell on her hind end.
Nissa pouted, holding her head. "Stop laughing at me."
Lady Felicie waggled a finger. "Now girls, do not mock a friend when she is in need of your aid."
Shaye, the other nymphet, offered her a hand, and attempted to pull her to her feet. "You dance better than you stand, Nissa."
"Thank you," the pixie grimaced.
Lady Felicie was at her side. "Foolish little one, you could have injured yourself."
"My apologies, milady, I was trying to do the dance Lady Delshess taught us."
The nymph hugged her pixie close. She kissed Nissa on the forehead, and placed her on her lap. "Your determination is appreciated. But do not harm yourself thereby."
"Yes, milady."
They sat there for awhile, as Xeelee hopped about.
Shaye stood close by, watching as a butterfly lit on a flower. She crept close to observe it, and then began to sing:
Pretty little creature
on gossamer wings.
Flying about
and landing on things.
Light of foot
and bright of hue.
Can you see me
peeking at you?
Lady Felicie sighed. "Your voice is as light as your subject, my darling Shaye."
The nymphet blushed. "Thank you, milady."
"And thank you, my little songbird."
Shaye blushed all the more, and the other two began to tease her.
Lady Felicie opened her eyes, ceasing her meditation. She was in her bed, and the night sky could be seen through the window. Such happy memories… Oh, that I could rest in them and never again behold the light of day. Tears ran down her cheeks. She reached for her staff, and then curled up once more.
***
The dark knight curled his lip menacingly. "You followed his trail, and return with nothing?"
Sharu stood firm. "The tracks end beyond the border of the human land."
Sir Devaro tilted his head. "Our quarry is among those of the burning blood?"
The Ranger nodded. "There are those who watch over the boundary. I do not believe he could have passed their notice in his wounded state. The Usurper's knight may yet live."
Sir Devaro frowned, "I have tasked you with finding the murderer. However, he has perhaps found sanctuary among men. We are already at war. We dare not provoke the humans, now." The dark knight furrowed his brow in thought. Then, he spoke. "Find the slayer of the Queen's elves. But do not be seen."
"As you wish, Sir Devaro." Sharu bowed.
The other two Rangers followed suit.
Sir Devaro waved a hand and the Dark Hunters departed.
Chapter 2: "Bedside Manner"
Morning came, and the patient stirred. Sir Galen opened his eyes, and gazed down at the woman sleeping on his stomach. My life is not ended. And who is this lovely creature, who now rests upon me? He felt a sharp pain, and gave a groan.
Flora opened her eyes, and suddenly she sat straight up. "Oh. I..." She gazed into those piercing green eyes. There was a keen awareness in them, and a shudder went through her. The woman froze in place, just staring at the elf.
He stared back, observing her large pillowy bosom, long flowing hair and her soft, round features. He was not yet strong enough to rise, so he merely raised an outstretched hand and said, "Peace. I mean you no harm."
Flora shook. Thoughts raced through her head. Had she swooned? Or had she fallen asleep on top of her patient?!
The elf spoke again, "I am Sir Galen, a knight of the Blessed Court."
She hung on every word he spoke, in that rich, melodious tone. Then, she answered "Hi. My... name is... Flora."
He arched a slanted brow. "Flora. It is a pretty name." He tilted his head, observing her soft form and the large breasts, which rose and fell with her breathing. "Yes, a beautiful name for a beautiful creature."
"Thank... you, sir," she stammered.
"Have you delivered me from death?"
She wondered at his words. "I'm a doctor, Sir Galen. I just kept you alive."
"Then, I believe it is I who should thank you, Flora. Thank you for my life."
The woman grew nervous. "It was nothing, really."
Sir Galen stared up at her. "My life is nothing?"
"No, of course not! I just meant that what I did was not that much."
The elf looked down at the bandages on his chest. "To my eyes, it is a great deal you have done."
Flora clasped her hands together.
"I'm sorry, sir. I... accept your thanks."
Sir Galen nodded.
The two became silent, for a moment.
Flora spoke. "Sir Galen?"
"Yes?"
She shifted uncomfortably. "How did it happen?"
He turned away. "In battle, I did suffer a dire wound."
"I could tell. The blade had sunk deep, piercing one of your lungs."
He could feel the pain there, still. The elf tried to sit up.
"Sir Galen!" She held him by the shoulders. "Be careful."
He struggled once more. "I must return to my people. The touch of a priestess would heal my wound."
"No, please. You need to rest, sir. My two assistants will be here shortly. They'll bring you food and water. Rest, and then you can return to your people."
He looked up at her. This gentle, fearful creature was actually attempting to restrain him! "Release me. I must go back. Only the power of a priestess can heal this wound."
She could feel those piercing green eyes on her. "I... can't let you do that. Please, sir. You wouldn't survive the trip back. Stay here, at least until you feel better."
He thought, Can this woman possibly expect to prevent me? Even in my weakened state, she could pose no real hindrance. He sighed, and lay back. "Very well, perhaps there is wisdom in your words. But when my strength returns, I shall depart."
Flora sat wide-eyed. "Yes, of course." She stood up. "As I said, my assistants will be here soon. Do you need anything?"
"Yes. I request your company."
Flora smiled. She pulled a chair up to his bed and sat down. "I will stay, Sir Galen."
"Call me Galen."
"Why?"
"Because it would please me."
"Very well, Galen."
"And may I call you Flora?"
"Yes, of course."
He nodded. "I shall rest now, Flora, as you have requested." He closed his eyes.
She breathed a sigh of relief, and wiped the sweat from her brow.
***
Lady Felicie grimaced at the messenger's news. However, she remained composed, kissing the pixie on the forehead. "Go to Sir Devaro, and tell him to keep me informed."
"Yes, milady." The nymphet bowed and scurried off to find the dark knight.
The nymph stood there, for a moment, watching her go. So pretty… and so very loyal. They love us without reserve. She pulled her staff close. Without reserve.
***
A short while later, Sir Galen opened his eyes, and saw the woman enter the room, carrying a tray. "Flora. Though my pain is great," he winced, "I am comforted by your presence."
She gave a nervous smile. "Are you hungry?" She sat the tray down in front of him. "Because of the wound, your body is weak. It can't contain solid food. So I made you some soup."
The elf nodded, and lifted the bowl to his lips. He could feel the woman watching him.
She asked, "Do you like it?"
He placed the bowl on the tray. "It is sufficient."
Flora bore a slight expression of hurt. She stood quickly and poured a glass of juice for him. "Try this, then."
The elf took the cup and began to sip its contents.
Flora stared longingly at him.
He glanced over at her. "It has a pleasant taste."
She gave a relieved sigh. "My two assistants will be here soon."
Sir Galen cocked an eyebrow. "Are your attendants as lovely as you?"
Flora squirmed. "Why do you ask?"
"You are beautiful. If they are not, then they are unworthy to attend one such as you."
She blushed, standing up quickly. "Are you done?"
He looked down at the tray. "My hunger has been sated."
She removed the dishes.
The knight spoke "I am grateful for these victuals."
She smiled. "It is my pleasure, Galen." The woman took the tray and left the room.
***
Lady Felicie stood as a fellow sprite entered the room. "Delshess."
She too, was a lesser fay witch, holding a staff. However, Delshess had a haughty countenance, and carried herself with a dignity that verged on indignation. "Darling Felicie." She kissed her friend on the cheek.
Lady Felicie gave a weak smile.
Delshess remarked, "When I heard of our great victory against the Usurper’s knights, I just had to come and see you. Hearing of my earnest desire on your behalf, Lady Ursula sent me here with her blessings.”
Felicie answered, "We were indeed victorious, dear Delshess. We have accounted for all but one of the enemy."
"The murderer," Delshess realized. She gripped her staff tightly, turning it so that she could stare at the green gem.
Felicie nodded, unconsciously clutching her own stave to her bosom.
Delshess straightened and spoke. "He is of no concern. His blood will yet be spilled for what he has done."
Felicie's face grew blank.
Her friend changed the subject. "Now, that we have secured this area, the queen sends word for us to press forward. The Usurper's elves will be in disarray after having suffered such a crushing defeat." She smirked.
Felicie stepped forward. "Delshess, my darling?"
"Yes?"
"I have spoken with Sir Devaro. He has sent for the Dark Hunters."
Delshess held up her hands. "What splendid news. They will find the murderer. And your little ones will be avenged." She dropped her arms, tapping her staff on the floor, assuming a martial pose.
Felicie sat back down. "Perhaps."
The visiting witch became irritated. "Perhaps?"
"Delshess, the murderer has survived thus far. I do not dare hope that Devaro shall be successful in this attempt."
Delshess drew close, and placed a hand on her friend's thigh. "His heart is his weapon, Felicie. He shall not fail you. Nor will he fail Xeelee, Nissa and Shaye." She hugged her friend close, kissing her on the cheek. "He will avenge the Queen’s elves on this slayer of pixies. And none shall stay his righteous hand." Delshess squeezed her leg, and then left the room.
***
Near the border of Androtopia, the Dark Hunter Sharu observed two border guards standing at their posts. The ranger noted that these two men were different from the ones he had seen on the previous day. He thought, The murderer's tracks end here. We have found the place where he fell. He turned as the other two Hunters stealthily approached. Sharu asked softly "What did you find?"
One answered, "Men guard their border at regular intervals. Each post is held by two of them. And the nearest post to this one is just beyond those trees." He turned his head slowly to the one side.
Sharu nodded his understanding.
The other Ranger spoke. "I discovered a nearby road. It is well traveled by both hoof and foot. It is there that we should begin our search."
Sharu answered, "Very well. Show us this road."
The Ranger nodded and took the lead. Together, the trio of Dark Hunters crept through the tall grass, and past the two guards who stood dutifully at their posts.
***
Flora opened the front door, in response to the knocking. There, stood her two assistants. Cindy was brown-haired and tall. She wore a long, blue dress, and was wrapped in a shawl. Ayla was short and petite. She wore a white bonnet, and a plain brown dress. Flora smiled at them. "Good morning, girls."
The two adolescents entered. Cindy removed her shawl and gave it to Doctor Flora. "Has our patient woken up yet?"
"Yes," the doctor replied. "He has been fed and is now sleeping."
Ayla removed her bonnet, revealing her golden locks. She bounced with glee. "Oh doctor, an elf. A real elf is in our care."
"Calm down. He is our patient. His health is our concern."
Cindy nodded at Ayla. "Doctor Flora is right. We must focus on taking care of him."
Ayla became still. "Very well. But, he is an interesting patient."
Cindy smiled, "And a handsome one." She giggled.
Doctor Flora fr
owned at her.
The girl gave a sheepish grin. "Sorry, doctor."
"Really girls, you must take this seriously. Galen will need regular care for the next couple of days."
Cindy looked at her. "Galen? Is that his name?"
Flora stopped short, feeling their eyes on her. "Well... yes. He... told it to me when he woke up."
Ayla pouted, "He told you his name, and we weren't even here."
Cindy sighed. "It must be good to be the doctor."
Flora stammered "Now... girls.... Our patient... requires our care." She could feel them continuing to stare at her.
Cindy asked, "Did he say anything else, doctor?"
"Uh… no, nothing at all."
Ayla eyed her suspiciously. "When did he wake up?"
"Early this morning."
Cindy said, "We should go see how he is doing."
Ayla nodded self-assuredly.
Flora sighed. "Very well. But remember, he needs sleep if he's going to get better."
Cindy and Ayla halted outside the door to the room Galen was in. Both girls shook with excitement and apprehension. Cindy whispered, "I’ll go in first." She took a breath, and then turned to the smaller nurse. "Are you ready?"
Ayla held her hands at her sides. "Yes."
Cindy reached out a hand and opened the door.
The elf lay on the bed, with his eyes closed. The girls gave a sigh of relief.
Galen opened his eyes, and gazed upon them.
Cindy froze in place.
Ayla fell back against the door.
Galen reached out a hand to them. "Peace. I mean you no harm."
Cindy was transfixed by those shining green eyes. "I... sir... well..."
Ayla quivered noticeably.
The great elf spoke "Are you Flora's assistants?"
Cindy nodded slowly.
The elf beckoned for them to approach.
The two girls walked stiffly over to the bed.
Galen smiled. "You are lovely. Flora is fortunate to have such beautiful creatures to assist her."