Zlata and Steph are having a quiet talk after the dramatic rescue of Steph. Zlata can see the strain of Steph's captivity and torture. 'I have instructed the healers to put you at the top of the list for the regrowing of your wings. And while you are there at the Temple of Healing, you will also have some sessions to help heal your soul and mind. When you leave the temple, you will be sound in mind, soul and body.' Zlata looked into the tired eyes of Steph. She watched as Steph digested this information and saw her shoulders relax. Steph looked into the caring brown eyes of her queen and saw only love and conern. She felt tears threatening her eyes as she realized what Queen Zlata had told her. What she endured at the hands of that creature left deep scars in her mind and soul. She wondered just what could be done to ease those pains. "Thank you, my queen. I look forward to being able to fly once again, to feel the wind beneath my wings and see the beauty of Fae Valley.' 'Good, my child,' Zlata said as she took Steph's hands. 'Now go home and get some rest for you have a busy day tomorrow and for the next few weeks. I want you whole and happy.' Zlata squeezed her hands and smile up at the young fae. Steph stood up and bowed to her queen and strolled off into the night, leaving Zlata sitting on the bench. Zlata watched Steph disappear into the darkness, and thought about the reports she received regarding Steph's captor. The news was not good. it seemed that there was more than one and they captured and tortured not only fae, but humans and animals, both magical and non-magical. No one was safe. Also from the reports, it appeard that these creature were a bane to the members of the UnSeelie as well, if some of the souvenirs were any indication of ownership. Zlata wondered if these creatures came from beyond that gate and if so, how long have they been in the area and most importantly, why nobody heard about them until now. Maybe it was time to send an envoy to trade information. Maybe a joint venture would help eradicate these creatures once and for all. Zlata looked in the direction that Steph walked and thought about the physical and mental pain she suffered at the hands of this perverse creature and how much it would affect her in the future. and of her team that rescued her, they were in shock, not so much that they couldn't rescue Steph, but afterwards they complained of not being able to sleep well, of nightmares and the feeling of being watched during the daylight. Zlata shook her head, a mixture of grief and happiness within. The problem would be solved to everyone's satisfaction. Thank you for your wonderful comments and faves Mike