Gregor and the Prophecy of Paths

by goatcloud

Sequel to Gregor and the Spinners' War. Gregor cannot get over the Underland. Though he tries to move on, he wishes to see his friends again. That is when Luxa calls for his help. Gregor returns to the Underland to fulfill a prophecy and help search for a new land, but something does not seem quite right. All Gregor can do is try to help the young queen.

28. Chapter 28

28

Luxa dismissed the meeting after another three hours, then Gregor went to Luxa's quarters with her cousin and Wynnora. Hazard excused himself, and went to his room. Gregor wondered what he was going through at the moment. He really hoped Luxa was making time for him.

"My apologies, Gregor," Luxa said. "I did not mean for it to seem as though we planned to just use you." He shrugged.

"I'm used to it." It was not the best answer, but it was all he could manage.

"You did wonderfully at the meeting," Howard said. Gregor turned to him to say thanks, but he was looking at his cousin. Gregor turned back to Luxa.

"Nice to know I'm appreciated," he said. It got a small smile from the queen, and she gave a slight shrug.

"Yeah, I'm sure," Wynnora said. "Though, Gregor, you weren't too bad. You could maybe work on not yelling rude things at your elders, but hey, no one is perfect." Her usual humor was not there. Her voice was too quiet, and Gregor heard sadness in it.

Everyone sat down in the living room in silence for a few minutes. It was a terrible silence. Gregor felt as if they had both everything and nothing to say to each other. Just a few days ago they were joking and happy. But now…

"How are you?" Wynnora said in little more than a whisper. It was directed at Howard. Gregor wanted to know too.

"Not well," he answered honestly. Wynnora leaned her head on his shoulder, and gave his hand a quick squeeze before folding them on her lap again.

"We're going to need to go home soon," Gregor said quietly.

"I know," Luxa replied.

"But, I'll help with anything you need."

"I am sure you will not need to return." Gregor was not sure why, but her words really stung.

"Luxa. You can forget about what I said earlier." He ignored the confused look from their cousins. "If you need anything. Anything at all. Even if it's just some company. I'll be here." Luxa gave a small smile. "Within reason of course. Maybe send a letter first, with a warming." His voice was still sad, but the bit of humor seemed to brighten the queen a bit.

"So we're going home?" Wynnora asked.

"For now," Luxa said. She looked at Gregor, and he nodded.