Thus working in many ways, Metem laboured incessantly to win his end, so that when at last the hour of election came he awaited its issue, fairly confident of success.
It was on this same afternoon that for the first time since she had received the arrow which was meant for his heart, Aziel was admitted to see Elissa.

Now at length her recovery was certain, although she had not shaken off her weakness, and her right arm and wrist were still stiff and swollen.

Except for two or three of her women, who were seated at their work behind a screen near the far end of the great chamber, she was alone, lying upon a couch in the recess of the window-place.
Advancing to her, Aziel bent down to kiss her wounded hand.
"Nay," said Elissa, hiding it beneath the folds of her robe, "it is still black and unsightly with the poison." "The more reason that I should kiss it, seeing how the stain came there," he answered.
Her eyes met his, and she whispered, "Not my hand, but my brow, Prince, for so I shall be crowned." He pressed his lips upon her forehead, and replied:-- "Queen of my heart you are already, and though the throne be humble it is sure.

The life you saved is yours, and no other's." "I did but repay a debt," she answered; "but speak of it no more.

Gladly would I have died to save you; should such choice arise, would you do so for me, I wonder ?" "There is little need to ask such a question, lady; for your sake I would not only die, I would even endure shame--that is worse than death." "Sweet words, Aziel," she answered, smiling, "of which we shall learn the value when the hour of trial comes, as come, I think, it will.