by Cherron Riser, Ashley Nicole Davis, Tara Ann Moore, & Taylor Lexus Brown
Sparrow stood over Gwyneira’s body. She had spent hours pouring magic into the woman, healing her body, heart, and soul. I could see the exhaustion on Sparrow’s face, but she was determined to save the dragon. I had told her everything that had transpired in the tower and how Gwyneira had pretty much given up in the end. Over the last several days, Sparrow told me of the pain she felt through the woman. Her magic had been able to pull at every broken part of her. It was astonishing that Sparrow thought herself weak when she was anything but.
To help with the healing process, we had kept Gwyneira in a state of sleep. It had been Sparrow’s suggestion until she was sure the girl would be safe. Neither of us had been able to come up with a plan after that, but we continued to work and hope that one would come to us. Somehow, I did not feel like this was the end of the challenges we would face. This was only the beginning, and soon enough, we would have to face more. Gwyneira played a part in all of this; I just wasn’t sure what that part was yet.
Rodrick checked on us often, making sure we had food, water, and anything else we needed. It was a long process, and when the day ended, Sparrow would often fall exhausted into the bed. I would hold her and sing to her, wanting to comfort her.
“Do you think she will find peace?” I asked, kissing the top of Sparrow’s head.
“I don’t know. That isn’t something I can magic into her. It will be a journey she will have to fight on her own. I hope she can find it, but I simply am not sure. Only time will tell,” Sparrow answered, playing with the curls on my chest.
“Thank you for having such a big heart. I don’t know what I would do without you. I’m sure I would be a miserable old man.” I sighed, snuggling in deeper.
“I’m sure you would. I love you, Liam. Get some sleep.” Sparrow yawned, holding me closer.
Joy exploded in my heart. She had said the words I had felt since we had first met. It was a wonderful sensation, and I could not stop the smile on my lips. “I love you too, my sweet Sparrow.”
We would sleep, and we would continue to work at saving Gwyneira, waiting for the next challenge to enter our lives. At least this time, we would have the opportunity to face those challenges.
Blood and Ashes
Ashley Nicole Davis