Chapter 8

Ghemella was not one to be frightened easily, though in this instance she felt discretion was the better part of valor. She was not entirely sure of Uriel's powers and did not think it wise to test him over a matter such as this. Ghemella turned, took the torch off the wall and walked down the corridor, Uriel following.

They soon arrived at the door of the High Witch's quarters. Uriel stood there, hesitant. He rapped softly once and then remembered Ghemella waiting behind him. He quickly knocked three more times in rapid succession attempting to show some authority. A moment passed before Uriel heard the door open and Khyrhyelle stood before them, obviously being woken from her sleep. Uriel was amazed that someone could look that bad and yet look so good. At the same moment he came to the realization that most things about her amazed him.

Khyrhyelle looked from Uriel to Ghemella. The dark little witch just shrugged her shoulders. Khyrhyelle's gaze came back to Uriel. "Yes?" she inquired in a drawn voice.

"I… uh… needed to see you."

"Could it not wait?"

"I suppose." Uriel could hear Ghemella's snickering. He was completely embarrassed and wished he could hide somewhere. "Look, I'm sorry. It's late. I didn't want to wake you up." He put his head down like a scolded puppy and turned to leave. If he had a tail it would have been between his legs.

Khyrhyelle took his hand and led Uriel into her room. "It is all right, I am awake now." Then she leaned over to Ghemella and whispered, "Leave us, I will be fine."

The High Witch closed the door and said, "Could you please start a fire?"