The Ballad of Lenore (Part 18)

"The mages need you," Elandon said

"Your sylphs must be contained"

I followed him back to the tower

Unsure of how they'd be reined

Up top, we could not see them

The ghosts had faded away

Rod said, "They've settled into the woods

We'll meet back here at end of day"

We ate a hearty breakfast

Back inside the Great Hall

Oriel and I agreed to spar

The action would lift my pall

We dodged and feinted with cudgels

She scored with several swift blows

Now bruised, but far less anxious

I excused myself to go

I made my way to the Healer's Hall

Oriel accompanied me 

Gaston was awake, face bandaged

Only one eye could be seen

"The Lady who saved your life," I said

With your one eye, did you see?"

"She forgave me as I begged her pardon

Bleeding on bended knees"

"She should have given you her knee"

Said I, "You must leave as soon as you can

"Will the House of Elandon join us?"

He asked. I said, "Yes, that is the plan"

(to be continued)

©Kiku Koibito