He knew that
he was now standing on the crux of the Blind Spot.
But in a minute he turned. The dais was a sort of nave, with one
end open to the stairway. Seated on his left was the frail Aradna,
occupying a small throne-like chair of some translucent green
material. On the right sat the Bar Senestro, in a chair differing
only in that its colour was a bright blue. In the centre of the
dais stood a third chair--a crimson one--empty.
The Senestro stood up. He was royally clad, his breast gleaming
with jewels. He was certainly handsome; he had the carriage of
confident royalty. There was no fear in this man, no uncertainty,
no weakness. If confidence were a thing of strength, the Senestro
was already the victor. In his heart Chick secretly admired him.
But just then the Aradna stood up, She made an indication to
Watson. He stepped over to the queen. She sat down again.
"I want to give you my benediction, stranger lord. Are you sure of
yourself? Can you overcome the Senestro?"
"I am certain," spoke Watson. "It is for the queen, O Aradna. I
know nothing of the prophecy; but I will fight for you!"
She blushed and cast a furtive look in the direction of the
Senestro.
"It is well," she spoke. "The outcome will have a double
interpretation--the spiritual one of the prophecy, and the
earthly, material one that concerns myself. If you conquer, my
lord, I am freed.
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