Chapter 16
Ayron was rudely awakened to be taken to another interrogation. As he was pushed along he gazed around and noticed a thin, ragged, white horse standing by the wall. But it wasn't a horse–it was a unicorn with her horn sawn off. All Ayron could do was stare in surprise at the once proud creature now tied like a common beast of burden. Was that the Moonbeam that Rikkle had mentioned?
Once again he was taken to a rubble-filled chamber where he knew the interrogation would begin.
Aslan help me, he prayed.
~o~o~
King Araven called the Council to order. They had gathered to discuss what happened during Ranger and Sparke's scouting mission–and, if possible, how they could rescue Ranger.
Several suggestions were given, from sneaking him out to full scale assault on the enemy camp, but nothing seemed likely to work.
Someone sighed. "We'll just have to trust our friend to Aslan's care." Murmurs of agreement met that statement. Still the Council continued to plan.
~o~o~
Ayron lay on the floor of his cell, feeling dead to the world outside. Rikkle had been taken away and that left him all alone.
Oh Aslan, he prayed, unsure if he simply thought or spoke the words, please don't let me and my friend die down here.
"Do not worry my son," a solemn, golden voice said. "You will not die yet. It is not your time."
For the first time Ayron–who had had his eyes closed–noticed the golden light filling the stone chamber. Turning his head, tears sprang to his eyes when he saw the huge Lion sitting beside him.
"Aslan," was all he could say.
The Great Lion bent down and kissed Ayron's forehead. "Peace. I still have a task for you to complete. And remember, you are never alone."
Ayron, for the first time since his capture, felt peace flood through him. He closed his eyes and slept.