Which Came First?

Glad you could join us for the next unobtrusive episode of Elliot’s Adventures. If you’re new here, you can catch up by returning to the beginning, and reading really fast…

Fireflies flickered and flashed across the field, painting the party with lights and shadows that leaped and danced. To say spirits were high would be like saying love was nice.

Walking with his friends as far as the edge of the meadow, Vernon hid a grimace as he lifted into the air.

“I’ll let Queen Lilian know you’re here.” He scanned the celebration. “Looks like the entire Kingdom has turned out and they’ve all brought food and drink to tide everyone over till the banquet. Stay together and I’ll find you when the Queen is ready for you. Lady Cassandra, I hope you’ll save me a dance. Clifton — leave some food for me!”

Flying hurt. The stitches pulled and his muscles burned. Vowing, I will not show her this weakness, he spotted her Magnificence introducing King Arnie to admirers who had lined up to meet him. How can they even see him? She eclipses everything around her.

With more tenderness in his heart than in his weakened wings, he landed where he could watch unobserved for just a moment longer. She shows everyone her brave independence and her valiant soul. Anyone can see her gentle kindness and radiant beauty, and we all know how strong and wise she is. But does anyone else see her courageous loneliness, he wondered, or her aching loss and imprisoned longing?

Loyalty and love were inseparable to him, but he suspected one had caused the other. He would gladly give his life for her, but he would rather give it to her.

Shoulders back, chin up, Vernon the Queen’s Liaison stepped into her line of sight.

To be continued. . .

Previously, on Elliot’s Adventures ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Next time . . .

Author: Sue Ranscht

Having survived valve repair surgery and an experimental cardiac bypass at age 5, three years before it was an accepted medical procedure, Susan grew into the size of her overworked and enlarged heart. Maybe she thought she had enough to give it away -- twice. Both times, she had to retrieve the shattered pieces and puzzle them back together. She thanks her Dad for the only advice of his she ever followed to the letter: "Never get married. Learn to take care of yourself." So of course she is a writer. Susan has co-written a YA SciFi novel, and has three more novels in various stages of evolution. She's had several short stories published in other people's anthologies, some of which were contest-related. Let her tell you a story... View all posts by Sue Ranscht