Khybors story
From Writers Exchange
“Interfacing?”
He sat up straight, alerted to the implications that didn’t quite solidify
right away in his thoughts. Rorin always loved that churning of theories and
possibilities, and waiting for a brainstorm to hit.
“Never
mind that. You were asking about Elin. She’s out on a training expedition right
now. Don’t expect her back for three, four days.”
“Training
who?”
“The
children. All the children who survived. She’s the only mother they have now,
and the way they cling to her … it’s a little frightening, if you take enough
time to sit back and really think about it.” He settled back further in his
chair and clasped his hands on the cluttered surface of his desk.
“What’s
frightening about it? Elin’s always been especially protective of children.
That’s her whole dream, inherited down through the family line. Finding a place
where the children can be safe. You’d think a poisonous place like Norbra, our
enemies would leave us alone and hope the world would kill us off, so they
don’t have to expend time and resources.” Rorin grunted and fought off a
shudder of pure disgust. “That hope certainly didn’t pan out.”
“Definitely
not, and they’re going to regret …” He sighed. “It didn’t occur to me until
now, the way you’re talking, you’ve taken the big step, haven’t you? No turning
back.”
“If
you mean that I’ve made it impossible for my superiors to ignore that I’ve got
Khybor blood and Khybor sympathies, absolutely. I’m committed.” He grinned. “So
… how is Elin doing with instant motherhood?”
“It’s
been an interesting experience. She’s ready to die for those children, and they
know it, and they also know she won’t tolerate even one second of rebellion.
It’s life-and-death, even inside the walls here. I might be the administrator,
and officially I’m the final authority, but the truth is that Elin is queen of
Norbra. We’re all here to support her vision, her plans.”
“That
makes more sense than anything I’ve heard in a long time. So, how do I find her
majesty and pay my respects?”
Dr.
Teller tipped his head back and laughed.
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