46 "Father," insisted Morn, "it's doubtful they
were involved at all. They are probably as shocked as anyone else,
torturing them will provide no useful information, just hurt the
innocent. It would be better if they were simply taken off someplace
and allowed to live out their remaining days in peace. They can always
be watched. If they are rewarded, the reward can be traced."
47 The Lord God considered for a moment. "Your wisdom," he praised, "is
growing. Making an example of them might be exactly what someone wants
us to do. As you say, better to watch them and find out what they're up
to. If they are loyal subjects, I do not want them mistreated. " He
gave orders to The Lord's Guard immediately. "People complain of your
softness, but I consider it a mark of your strength. A Lord God does
not have to be brutal. Kindness sometimes works wonders!"
48 The Lord God departed. In the morning Morn was allowed to get up,
and decided to visit North. He met North's parents outside his door.
"How is he this morning?" he asked.
49 "He's just waking up," General Star told him. "We're waiting to go
in."
50 The door swung open behind them, and a mechanical voice announced
they could come in. "I'll wait until you're done," insisted Morn.
51 North's parents entered the room. Standing outside, Morn could hear
the conversation. When the two people came out, Morn entered. The
startled look on his friend's face didn't surprise him. He must look
horrible, he thought, in all the braces and bandages.
52 "You said you weren't hurt! " cried North. "What's all this?"
53 "I told you, a few broken teeth and some bruises! " his friend
comforted. "Plus, it seems a few pulled muscles and tendons. The Doctor
was furious! He said I almost pulled my wings out of my sockets!"
54 "You could have been killed!" North responded. "You