|
Post by aedon on Oct 13, 2020 1:27:29 GMT -5
A Page from Aedon's Journal
I remember seeing the smile on her face, hearing the laughter which burst forth as she reeled and danced in unbridled joy. And I can still see the small drops of water which trickled down her face as she stood on the prow of the Tide and reached out her arms to welcome the morning sun. Much of the rest of that voyage I have tried to push from my mind, and yet night after night since our return, I have been haunted by the truth of what I had done.
Did it need to be done, no. But it was the only way I could see to grant her the one thing she longed for the most. A walk in the sunshine. My nightmares are a small price to pay for what she has gained. And I do take joy in watching her discover new things as the days wear on. That has for some time been enough to sustain me here. And has been my only encouragement to go on with my day to day living.
The burden has become a heavy one, and has come at a great cost. Each day has become a chore for me to live thorough. That which once sustained me has withered and died before my eyes, and if not for her smile, her happiness, I am not sure I could rise with each day and carry on.
But now, I find that it is becoming far too much. And I am certain that Izzy has noticed the changes that have come over me.
I have always been a bit of a recluse, but now I am sullen, and have been avoiding the company and touch of even those I love. I spoke to Izznet about this recently and she said she has been watching me slowly die for some time now. This has started in turn to wear on her.
And so, we have come to a decision. It is time to leave this place, and search for a life that feels more natural and easier for us.
I spoke with Nemira, and the decision of where to head was clear. There is a Meadhall in the green fields of Rohan. One I have visited many times now, and have taken great pleasure in the lush green rolling hills, and the sight of horses running wild and free. It is to this place that I plan to take Izznet. But there is a problem.
Drow are not a common sight in these lands, and Izzy might find herself an object of curiosity and scorn. With Nemira’s help, I have come up with a plan. It is once again messing with the natural order of things, but again, as before, what choice do I have? Izzy will be reborn, taking a bit of direction from a friend she admires.
Isabela is a pirate at heart and a citizen of the waves. Izzy has long admired her free spirit and has taken joy in the tales she tells when she visits the house along the Yew shoreline. She will remain Elven, but not Drow. And there will be a change of name. Perhaps this is what I should have done to begin with. Given her a new life to lead and oceans to conquer.
This comes with a risk of course. The freedom she finds on a ship sailing to new ports may prove more appealing than life at home with me. But freedom is a wonderful gift and what I have always wished for her. Time will tell if she will continue to sail the waves or return to me. I know Avalon will miss Izzy, but she told me it was time for the little bird to fly free. Still, you could see the weight of loss in her deep eyes and it was not hard to notice her body slump a little when I told her my plan.
And so, the Tide will make one last voyage for me, carrying Captain Greyylene and her husband Aedon to a land filled with promise. I know folks in those lands, and should easily be able to find some form of employment there. Izzy knows we are leaving, but I have not told her the fullness of my plans for us. I wonder, should I tell her?
And though we are far removed from this place that has been my home for so many years, I know that James will always know where to find me. I truthfully expect he will be around quite often. After all, pooka exist on many worlds at the same time.
My wish for Yew is that she continues to grow and prosper. I leave her in good hands in the persons of Glorfindel and Ismene. And James will keep the Glade of Aegis wild and free as she should be. I will say no goodbyes to folks this time, but leave quietly on a mornings tide after the properties are dealt with.
To be at rest is a wonderful thing. To know peace of mind and heart, and to know that you belong someplace. It is my lasting hope to find this peace of heart again. And to spend my years listening to the stories Captain Greyylene regales me with on her return from the sea.
|
|
|
Post by izznet on Oct 14, 2020 8:48:00 GMT -5
A New Beginning:
Standing at Emerald Point watching the ebb and flow of the ocean, Izznet’s thoughts were already far away. The light flap of wing broke the spell as Avalon rested next to her Charge. For centuries the mighty gargoyle had watched over the Drow. It was with a bitter sweet smile that she greeted the one she had come to view as not merely a child, but a friend.
“Tis soon the hour your voyage will take you far from where I can follow,” Avalon said stepping close to Izznet.
“Indeed,” the low whisper melted into the sounds of the sea.
Together they stood for what felt like a lifetime. A parade of memories flooded each in turn. With wind in her long icy locks Izznet looked up at Avalon. Emerald green eyes gazed at her friend taking in every detail so as not to forget.
“You know the fullness of the plan, I believe. Yes?” Izznet pried.
“I do, ma’am. Should I keep to myself and allow the surprise?”
“I’m certain I also know. It is not a small thing to ride out to the West on the Celtic Tide. He is clever, my Aedon, but I am on to his wiles. I know once we depart there is no return. I also know, his love is for solid earth. The fire in his chest burns for a land to call home. I think he found such a place, but it will require deep sacrifice. Am I wrong?”
“You are not wrong. How far do you feel he will request your company? Will you remain with him even in a place strange to you? You will be alone, you realize.”
“Avalon, my dear friend, I have been alone before. This is Not alone. I will be with Aedon. Of course I will remain with him, even in this new land. Why would I not?”
A simple nod from the gargoyle betrayed the deeper secret held within the questions. Returning her gaze to the open ocean, she let the conversation float on the wind. For the first time in months there was a twinkle in her green eyes and excitement in her step. A new adventure waited on the horizon.
Returning to the house she had called home, Izzy sat at on the floor and took out her journal. Flipping through past entries she relived adventures and heartache from these lands. Turning to a blank page she took up her pen and began to write...
|
|
|
Post by aedon on Oct 16, 2020 1:52:38 GMT -5
It was in the wee hours of the morning that she made her way towards the water’s edge. Her passage went unnoticed by all except the night birds that followed in her wake. Her movements, deliberate and sure, her keen eyes scanned the water for any trace of the small ship. Spotting her target, she swooped down landing on the deck, shifting form as she walked toward the cabin.
Making her way down she short staircase, she stood at the foot of the bed, glancing down to where the woman slept.
So, this is the one they called Isa. She thought to herself. She could not help but notice that the woman was young in years, far younger than Izznet for sure. Aedon had told her that Isabela was a pirate by trade, and that her lifestyle and exploits were something that Izzy took great delight in. She could not help but wonder at the wisdom of making what this one was a part of the woman that would soon accompany him far into the west. But there was little she would deny her son at this point.
Nemira had become concerned about the current state of Aedon’s mind. He seemed scattered, and restless. There was a sense of unrest about the man, and yet at the same time, the resignation one might see in a person who had become sure of his fate. He was leaving, and Izznet would be accompanying him to a land where Drow were not a common sight. And so, he asked this boon of her.
Leaning in closer to the sleeping woman, Nemira smiled as she caught the first tendrils of her restless sleep.
A stormy sea surrounded her as Isabela stood on the deck of her ship. Her face fixed with a grim determination, the woman’s actions in were reckless and cocky as she pushed her craft headlong into the storms rage. With a loud crack, the mast gave way sending the sails billowing below covering the deck and the pilot of the craft. Reaching her hand down, Nemira touched the woman’s brow lightly, calming the waves, and dissipating the storm within her dream.
This one is too wild, too reckless. I cannot see her standing at Aedon’s side as he faces what is to come. There must be another.
From within Isabela’s dream, a song arose. Allowing the so0ng to enter her, Nemira saw visions of another ship, on another sea. There standing at the wheel, a young elf piloted her craft with great skill and purpose. On the deck at her feet, a small child played. From time to time, rising over the elf’s song came the piping voice of the child singing some old sea chanty. Looking down, the elf smiled saying:
“that’s very good Isa, soon you will be old enough for your own craft.”
As she slept, Isa begin to smile in her sleep and whispered a name.
“Greyylene.”
Who was this Greyylene, and what connection did she have to young Isabela?
Leaning in close Nemira whispered into Isa’s ear. Take me to her, take me to Greyylene.
The room around them began to shake as the small ship lifted slightly, and began to move across the surface of the water. She traveled with the speed and aim of the Celtic Tide, steady and true as they made their way to other waters, and far off lands. In time, the craft slowed, and came to rest floating to the side of a much larger ship. Casting a deep sleep on the woman, lest she arise, Nemira made way up on deck, shifted, and flew up on to the Saucy Vixen.
|
|
|
Post by aedon on Oct 18, 2020 3:43:37 GMT -5
Captain Greyylene stood at the wheel of her ship, calling out orders to her crew. Those who served aboard the Saucy Vixen were well trained, and tempered by years at sea. Watching from the shadows Nemira observed that there was really no use in the orders being barked, as her crew moved from task to task with the ease of those who knew the drill well. And although it was clearly a pirate ship, there was a sense of comradery, or family about those who served Greyylene. This was a crew that served for love of their captain, and no under duress or debt.
Greyylene herself seemed suited to live aboard a ship. Smartly dressed in leather tunic and breeches, her long red hair tossed by the winds that blew across her deck filling her sails. The Vixen moved swiftly, clearly a craft suited to the chase. Few would be able to escape Captain Greyylene should she pursue them. The ships prow cut through the waves, sending droplets flying through the air, splashing against the faces of captain and crew. Suddenly Greyylene raised her voice in song, and as she did, her crew joined in. Nemira remembered this song. It was the one the child in Isabela’s dream was attempting to sing. As Nemira continued to watch unseen. The captain and her crew continued their song.
Nemira thought about the tales Aedon spoke of. The adventures shared with Izzy which set her heart racing and stirred her imagination. And as stood in the shadows she came to one conclusion. These stories were not Isabela’s alone, but the combined tales of her exploits in the waters around Yew mixed in with the high adventures of Captain Greyylene.
This is what I have been seeking. Nemira thought.
In time, the ship slowed, and came to rest in the waters off the shores of some town. Greyylene gave the orders to drop anchor, and then standing in the center of the deck told her men they were free to go ashore. After many of her crew had departed, she signaled to those still on deck that she was going below to her cabin. Nemira followed her in silence, unseen by the woman.
Her cabin was neatly kept, with nothing out of place. Her supper had been sent down, and set on a small table in the far corner of the room. Going to the corner, she sat down and prepared to eat. Moving silent behind her, Nemira placed her hand on Greyylene’s head causing her to immediately close her eyes. Leaning in, Nemira whispered into her ear.
Forgive me captain, but I must borrow something from Thee. No harm shall come, and you shall not recall that I was here. Your meal will be the best you have ever tasted, and your ship and crew forever blessed and protected by the winds. This I offer thee in exchange for that which I need.
Taking out a small, shimmering crystal, Nemira placed it near Greyylene’s temple. As she touched it to her skin, it slipped beneath the skin and small glow could be seen emanating though the skin, radiating warmth. Within a few minutes, the crystal reappeared, and Nemira took it up, tucking it deep within the folds of her shimmering robes. Stepping back, she shifted forms, and flew up passing through the small porthole on the ships side.
Flying down she circled the waters emitting soft call. As Isabela’s boat appeared, she flew down to the deck, and went below to where the lass still lay sleeping. Laying her hand on Isa’s head she said.
It is time to return to familiar waters.
The boat responded immediately, lifting above the waters surface, turning around, and racing back towards Yew. The ship came to rest just off the shore of Emerald Point. Nemira prepared to depart, but first, took the same crystal, and placed it against Isabela’s temple. Once again, it sunk below the skin, and emerged a few minutes later. As Nemira picked it up she spoke to the sleeping girl.
You are a reckless child, but your spirit is strong and free. I take an echo of this with me and in return I give thee some advice. Seek out Greyylene and offer yourself in apprenticeship. There is much you may learn, not the least of which is that thy godmother loves you. Sleep now, and awake refreshed. Thou will have no memory of Izznet, or Aedon or the House along the shore.
Turning from where Isa lay, Nemira went up onto the deck, shifted forms and took off into the sky heading towards Connemara.
The nights air was fresh to breath in, and below her the forests of Yew passed by. Spotting the house, she flew down, and landed on the balcony where Aedon was waiting.
Did you? He asked.
I have what I need my son. Although, there is one more thing I wish to do before we depart. I will meet thee in two days’ time aboard the Tide. But Aedon, remember this. Once this is done, there will be no going back for Izznet. She will be forever altered, her past life lost to her except in dreams. Looking at her for a moment Aedon considered her words. Then softly, in measured words said simply.
Then, let it be done mother.
|
|
|
Post by aedon on Oct 18, 2020 13:05:45 GMT -5
Nemira's Thoughts
I have spoken to the stone maiden today. It is not something I needed do. I have never consulted those not truly connected on the effects of my workings. But in this matter, I felt compelled to. In this, Avalon is not an outsider. Though through the many years of her watching she has referred to Izznet as her charge, I can see past her façade of duty and into the depths of her heart.
Her burden is much the same as the one I have carried for many centuries. And like her, I found more than duty in the work I performed day to day, and took pleasure in the company of my charge. And like myself, I am sure there are no heights she will not assail or oceans crossed to protect our child.
I am no god, and it is not granted me by the maker of all to simply move people around at will as pieces on a chess board. Avalon must understand the gravity of what is to come. I will have to trust to her instincts and heart to do what is best. What she will, or will not tell her child is now in her hands.
As we spoke, she nodded from time to time, doing her best to keep up her stony demeanor. But as the weight of my task settled about her, I watched her mighty shoulders slump, and tears roll down her face.
This was the final thing needed, though my heart ached at her pain. Reaching over to her, I collected several of the tears she said in a vial, then moved the breaking of the mountain’s heart, laid a hand on her shoulder.
What she tells or does not tell Izznet is hers to decide. And I will honor her decisions come what may. It is my hope that both Izznet and Aedon understand the sacrifice Avalon is being asked to make. To give up one’s child, for any parent, even for their own good is a heartbreak that endures through the years. And Avalon will have years unto the earth’s ending to reflect on her loss.
|
|
|
Post by izznet on Oct 19, 2020 11:20:29 GMT -5
Morning mists hovered low in the meadow as Izzy strolled the familiar path to her dancing circle. Idly leaping onto a nearby boulder she surveyed the space for her last dance in this realm. Shedding her robes and all the concerns that they represent Izznet leapt to the ground with grace.
The dance was one of a long story told through ages between her and the Mountain. Her feet moved around the circle, hands reaching to the heavens. The petition was for safe travel in the new worlds. Releasing all that she knew of lands that were both familiar and strange she danced and cried, without noticing that the boulder also watched and shed tears.
As the dance ended, Izznet stood shivering in the coolness of the morning. There was no hesitation or misgiving of the choices made, no regrets. Tears flowed for the one she would have to leave behind. Lost in thought Izzy failed to notice the “boulder” rise and bring over the clothing rescued from the damp earth. With a chuckle she accepted her outfit and dressed quickly.
“Your dance I will remember always, m’lady.”
Curling up next to her mountain, soft leathery wings wrapping around her shoulders once again Izznet felt small as a child. A gentle drizzle coated the pair in healing rain. Izzy knew there would be a great voyage ahead, and that Avalon would not be permitted to accompany her, but the look on Avalon’s face spoke of sacrifice far greater than a mere journey.
“Please, Avalon, speak to me what weighs your heart and mind so heavy.”
It was the only time in their history that Izznet ever saw Avalon in such a depth of weary despair that she could not stand to her full height. The reason Izzy did not recognize the boulder was that the gargoyle rarely sat so low on the ground.
“Tis true, the journey is far more than what is on the surface. And where you go, I cannot follow. But also, once you leave, there is no return... ever.” The crown of horns drooped low allowing Izznet to finally see the complexity of the etchings.
Running a finger along the deep grooves along Avalon’s body was like traveling a map through their collective history. The words and phrases were foreign but the design was beautiful. Taking the massive hand in hers, Izznet puzzled at the lack of adornment in Avalon’s hands. The metal was gone and the scorching was fresh.
“Avalon, what did you do?”
Shifting slightly to reach into an inner fold of her robe Avalon retrieved a set of intricately detailed hair combs. The delicate ivy vine pattern was woven around long combs ideal for encounters with state officials and high holiday ceremony. Taking up Izznet’s hair and entwining it into complex braids and twists she folded hair fastening with the combs.
“Once long ago, in mountains far from here, I was witness to horrific events. There was a fire that went through the grand chamber of a Drow Matriarch. An invading House decimated the small clan. Very few survived, those that did were taken as trophy. The daughter of the Matriarch was sorely abused and mistreated.
There was little I could do but watch. As they dragged the prisoners away in chains, the princess dropped hair combs that got trampled and broken. I retrieved them, and have been holding them for centuries.
I followed and watched over that princess her whole life. I was there when she was tortured and put on display, her life and death at the hands of cruel humans, and the renewed life when she was returned as Kindred. It was then the responsibility was officially given me to become her Watcher.
It was with agony and pride that I helped fulfill a promise etched in stone, my stone. The story has come full circle. From high esteem to fugitive your life has been varied and full.
This final chapter will be one that ends the story of Izznet H’unar of House H’unar. This is where House H’unar will cease to be. And with these combs, I hope you will remember me, with fondness. For I love you with all my being. You have become my heartbeat, my very breath.”
Izznet could do little more than sit in the arms of one she had called Watcher. The story brought back a flood of memories long buried. Leaning her head on Avalon’s shoulder they remained unwilling to break the spell. There they sat a small Drow princess huddled in the protection of a Gargoyle’s wing.
|
|
|
Post by izznet on Oct 24, 2020 10:21:06 GMT -5
Mountain Musings:
Feeling the slow drizzle of liquid metal leaking from talon tips brought floods of memories to the gargoyle’s mind. All the stories and adventures played out in her mind’s eye. Ages long before ever meeting the Drow princess marched a path the Fates took great pains to prepare all converged on a single point.
Never would she have thought that such simple and mundane items such as hair combs would bring on the flood of emotions. But they did. Holding them in her hands Avalon wept. ...
|
|
|
Post by izznet on Oct 26, 2020 11:02:00 GMT -5
…
Avalon hovered in the shadows just outside the window of Izznet’s room. There had been a time when Izzy would have instinctively known of the Gargoyle’s presence and come to the window. Her last voyage altered that ability.
The Watcher found no fault in the actions turning her Charge mortal. She did, at times, miss that close bond they shared. It was hoped that the bond would continue even through the next chapter of her story. The new world was unfamiliar with Drow, they would be even less accepting of a Gargoyle.
There was a soft rain that began to fall. It felt as though the weather was mocking Avalon’s agony, yet she showed no emotion. It was the excitement in Izznet’s face that dictated what would be shown. All too well, Avalon knew the cost of this next adventure.
Izznet would be no more.
Fading through the rock wall Avalon emerged inside the room watching her Charge for, most likely, the last time ever. A teasing smile bared teeth from the Gargoyle that made Izzy wrinkle her nose. Before she could say anything, Avalon tickled the top of Izznet’s head with her talons messing up the freshly styled hair. Long tendrils of ice white hair spilled out of the combs. The resulting squeal from Izznet made the gargoyle chuckle her gravel sounding laugh.
Eyes rolled and huff given, Izznet sat back at the borrowed mirror to redo her hair.
“You know how long it takes to get all this in perfect order and fitting in these combs?”
“Aye, it is known. I watched you do it from the window.”
“What? You were outside? But its raining! Oh, I suppose that would be why you are wet.”
“You are traveling far from here, ma’am. I hope it will be a good voyage,” Avalon blurted.
“I will miss you too, Avalon. You are dear to me. I won't forget you, you know that right?”
“Lady, where you go, neither of us will be welcome in the state we are. Prepare for events that will alter you to the core. But always know, I think of you fondly.”
Silence once again filled the room. Each lost in their own thoughts. Avalon tried to hold onto the stoic façade, which felt more as a losing battle. Watching Izzy’s reflection in the mirror, she burned the image of her face deep into her memory.
Sitting in front of the mirror, Izznet fixed the combs in her hair. Staring at the image brought a flood of whispers from ages long past. Ghosts of events long forgotten, some barely seemed real. A faint aroma of acrid smoke invaded the musings turning her reflection to a dark mist. Instinctively she went to remove the combs, but the simple touch blew the darkness away, like smoke from an extinguished candle.
There was a depth of love that was infused in those combs. Such a simple item, with little meaning or significance suddenly became a treasure beyond value. A smile crept across her lips as she continued to prepare for their final voyage. Locking eyes with Avalon through the reflection, no words spoken, merely the exchange of glances that spoke volumes.
The traveling outfit was simple, too simple for the combs, but comfortable. The final preparations were complete. All that was left were the timing of the waves and the Celtic Tide. New lands awaited, and with them a new life. Still the question lingered, what did it mean to be ‘altered to the core’? Soon she would know.
|
|
|
Post by aedon on Oct 26, 2020 14:36:48 GMT -5
The Tide stood ready at Emerald Point. All provisions had been secured in the hold for what would be in reality a very short trip. The Tide would set out into the west, and for a few hours all would seem a normal sea voyage. But when the time was right, the carefully laid plan would be set in motion, and Izznet would make her last trip aboard the Celtic Tide.
Aedon was a bit apprehensive to say the least. It did not go beyond his notice that in many ways, he was not doing the same thing to Izznet that Figol had done to him so many times. The one solace he took is that Izzy was aware of most of what would transpire on the way Home.
Home, such a simple word and yet one that for many long years Aedon had sought to find. He had always felt out of place in the many lands he found himself in. The closest he had ever come to home in fact was within Aegis. But time and circumstance changed, and the uneasiness he had come to feel within the Glade could not be ignored.
Sitting on the steps at the Knights Rest Aedon reflected on all this. It was to be a monumental change for Izzy, and he wondered at the fairness in asking her to do something that would so alter her life. All she had known. Friends, knowledge of family and her place in the world. Little really would be changing for Aedon. He was, after all as close to immortal as one can get. But the length of one’s life, when compared to another should not be cart blanch to do with their life as you see fit. This had long been a bone of contention between he and Figol.
The sun was setting low now, and throughout the glade lights sprung forth from the windows of the many houses within the forest of Yew. The hoppers began to chirp and the small critters darted from bush to bush seeking food. Looking up, he marked the moon’s slow rise enjoying watching her light cascading like diamonds between branch and leaf. As he waited for that warm sense of hearth and home to wash over him, he heard the slight rustle of leaves and the delicate foot falls as she approached.
Daydreaming Aedon? She asked softly.
Opening his eyes, he looked upon she who he called mother and smiled.
I suppose so, Well, a wee bit.
Walking over to where he was, Nemira sat on the step next to him. Laying a soft hand on his saying:
All is in readiness my son. There is not good cause to delay this longer.
I know mother. I was just waiting to see if…..
I know what you wait for Aedon. If it has not happened yet, what cause have you to expect it will come any time soon? Nodding his head, a bit Aedon replied. You are right. I am just stalling.
We leave on the morrow Aedon. If there is anything else you need to do, please do so today.
Standing, Nemira lay her hand softly on Aedon’s head, then turning, walked quietly down the path towards the water.
|
|
|
Post by aedon on Oct 27, 2020 3:33:58 GMT -5
The morning broke crisp and clear finding Aedon still sitting on the steps of the Rest. He had not moved much during the night except to go inside, pour a cup of coffee, and bring it back out with him. Perhaps he should have gone up to his bed. He knew Izzy would be a bit beside herself if she knew he has sat up all night. But in truth, he needed no sleep at this time. What he had needed most was time to think and resolve the nagging issue which had been plaguing his mind. Nemira had said she knew what it was he was waiting for. At the time, he was unsure what knowledge she may possess regarding his state of mind that he did not. It took all night, but now he knew what she was referring to.
He was jarred from his thoughts as the door opened, and Izzy came out carrying two cups of fresh coffee. Smelling, he reached up for a cup. With a smile on her face she drew both cups closer to her saying.
Get your own, I need both of these to wake up.
They both laughed, then she handed one over to Aedon, and sat on the steps next to him. Taking a deep drink, she sighed and stretched a bit saying;
What a beautiful day for a voyage.
Are you looking forward to the trip leannan?
Yes chev, I really am.
Then looking to him smiled saying again.
Really, I am Aedon.
Running a finger absently around the rim of the cup, Aedon considered his next words carefully.
You will miss your friends here. Are you certain about this Izzy?
Reaching over, she laid her slender hand on his knee and looked at him deliberately.
I have never been so certain of a thing in my life. Yes, I will miss Miriam and Isa, and mostly Avalon. But I will be with you, and I will have a life time of memories of those I leave behind.
Looking into her eyes, Aedon flashed a weak smile, then looking into his cup said.
We had best get to the Tide then. You know how Nemira hates it when we keep her waiting.
Taking her cup from her, he grinned and tossed both in the air at the same time. Izzy let our squeal of delight as both vanished in midair.
I never get tired of that! She said, stretching up to kiss his cheek.
Is there anything more you need from inside before we go? No chev, I sent all I wanted to the ship last eve. Just grab the small bag inside the door if you will.
Izzy started down the path towards the water’s edge, while Aedon reached just inside the Knights Rest grabbing her small bag, and his back pack. Closing the door behind him, he set off a few paces, then turned to look at the building. He stood there a few moments waiting, then shrugged his shoulders and turned his attention to the path ahead.
Izzy danced and sang as they made their way towards the great ship. Once there, she turned, and grabbing her bag from Aedon’s hand, rushed up the gangplank calling back.
Catch me if you can chev.
|
|
|
Post by aedon on Oct 27, 2020 15:56:31 GMT -5
In all truth, the voyage would only take a short time. But the Celtic Tide lingered in the waters off Britannia for several days. The warm sun and gently breeze made life aboard the vessel pleasant, and the gentle waves rocked them to sleep each night. In the sunlight, Izzy played on the decks, dancing her way between the rails, stopping to take in the sights as the ship slipped past towns and farmlands.
Standing near the ships wheel, Aedon could feel her wyes upon him, and knew well what was on her mind. Turning, he walked towards the rear of the craft and called out.
You have questions on your mind mother?
Touching down softly before him, Nemira shifted and looked into the eyes of her child.
Aedon, why do we still linger in these waters? All is in readiness and nothing holds us here. Or do you still have unfinished business unspoken?
Aedon stood silent for a moment, considering his answer.
You said the other day you knew why I hesitated. But in truth, in many ways, I am not sure why or what I am waiting for past this. I am waiting to feel something.
As in my son?
Anything. Happiness, sorrow, apprehension. But I feel nothing. Well, perhaps some guilt or regret.
In what manner Aedon?
Turning his head, he glanced towards where Izzy now sat on the deck reading a book she had brought along.
Ah, you still are concerned for her. She will be fine Aedon, I have made careful preparations.
Yes, I know you can be quite the perfectionist. But are we being fair to her or are we both just looking after me?
Stepping a little closer, Nemira smiled saying;
What do you think she would have done had you left her behind? Do you think her life would be happier in this land alone? Yes, in time, she would find another, but I can tell you for sure Aedon, she would not ever forget such a thing. It would be a wound on her heart that would never heal.
But her friends, her life? Has she not lost enough already in her time?
Yes Aedon, her loss has been great. But she will carry her friends with her always. The three closest to her will be a part of her till life’s end.
Aedon stood there, his eyes not straying from where his wife sat.
Know this Aedon; Nemira continued. From Isabela she will gain the wonder of youth, the curiosity to learn and discover. And yes, a bit of cockiness. From Greyylene I took her spirit of adventure, and devotion to others. I also chose her appearance my son. I think the red hair will please you. And from Avalon, her guardian, her mother, I took compassion and a gentle heart. For I have found more gentleness in the stone maiden, than in many made of flesh. Your Captain Greyylene will be a truly remarkable woman. The final thing my son she gets from Izzy. Her desire to live and thrive. To forgive those who have wronged her and a heart to love deeper than you can imagine.
Sighing a bit Nemira watched her son shift from foot to foot before looking to her saying.
It is time to get underway Nemira. Where is Figol? I must see him.
Looking up he watched as the huge eagle descended on the ship. Walking over to where the raptor landed, Aedon touched him on the head causing him to shift forms. The man that stood before him was tall, with long grayish hair and a flowing beard. Many looking upon him might consider him to be of the elven line. His attire was simple indeed. A simple robe of ivory, his hair pulled back in a half pony tail. An odd consort indeed for the west winds. Looking at the younger man, Figol spoke. His voice low and measured.
Aedon, what words have you for me?
At the same time, Nemira shifted and flew before the Celtic Tide. Her large wings beat rapidly, causing a small distortion to begin forming before the ship.
Figol, I wanted to say thank you before this all ends.
Raising one eyebrow, the elder looked upon him saying.
You understand then why all that was done was?
I suppose I understand much of it, father, but I have not the years behind me yet that would allow me to fully understand the machinations pf Figol of Athryvald.
As both men chuckled lightly, the golden gate started to take shape in front of the Tide. Running to the rails Izznet called out.
Aedon, you must come see this!
I will be right with you leannan.
Turning back to Figol, Aedon grabbed him in a rather clumsy hug, then releasing him, grabbed his right hand.
You have given me many gifts through the ages Father. This is now mine to you.
A soft blue glow started to form around the two men’s hands. It hummed softly, it was a warming glow that spread up their arms and encompassed their forms. Aedon was not sure if Izznet could see any of this, her attentions now fully focused on the gate. As the glow around them shifted from light blue to cerulean, Aedon whispered;
I forgive you father.
The intensity of the glow faded, and the true form of Figol of Athryvald now stood before Aedon. Clad in flowing robes of cerulean blue, his white shoulder length hair and full beard shone in the sun, and reflected the golden glow from the gate. In his hand he clasped a staff of ancient Rowan. Bowing his head slightly to Aedon, he stepped towards the middle of the craft, holding his staff high. As Aedon watched, the gate began to grow larger and pulsate with power.
Aedon, come quick! Izzy called out loudly, taking her eyes off the wonder before to glance back at her husband.
I am coming Izzy. he said, and moved quickly to where she stood, slipping his arm around her waist.
As the prow of the Tide breached the gate, Aedon looked back towards where Figol stood. Nemira now stood by his side. Fair as the dawn, true as the tide and as gentle as a summer breeze. Her beauty had always been obvious to Aedon, but now, as she stood there, once again at the side of her beloved, she was beyond all human measure of beauty. The tide slid slowly through the gate, the humming died down, and the seas went quiet.
Land ho Captain!
Turning to look at where Aedon stood at the wheel Greyylene could not help but chuckle.
Oh, are you turning pirate on me now?
Well, not exactly dear. But we are in the Cape of Belfalas, and that land appears to be Hoing to me.
Laughing, the red headed pirate strolled over to where he was, and using her hip, butted him aside slightly.
I’ll take it from here. Looks like supper at home tonight.
With the skill bourn of years aboard a ship, Captain Greyylene piloted the Saucy Vixen towards the docks… They were home.
|
|
|
Post by izznet on Oct 28, 2020 12:02:53 GMT -5
Izznet sat on the deck of the Tide bare foot, hair wild and free reading journals Avalon packed for her. She had no idea why she would need them, but who is she to question the Mountain? Some of the tales felt like wild fantastic stories one would read in school for fun. To realize they were personal journals of one Izznet H’unar made her chuckle.
Glancing up from the page, she noticed familiar seas and shorelines. She knew there was a hesitancy but figured allowing Aedon his musings without her prying would be the best course. It wasn’t horrible to sail along watching the land pass. Like the journals, the towns they past were distant memories. They held little value to her, so much of her life had been in solitude.
How could she possibly relay the notion that she was not leaving under duress? The grand adventure spoke to her spirit and made her heart soar. She would be with him. What else would she need?
Finally! Off the side not too far from their location something was happening. Springing from her lounging she rushed to the rails. The sun glimmered off the waves playing tricks on her eyes. But still she saw it, a hole in the fabric of time and space itself opened before them. A soft golden glow drew them close.
“Aedon! You have got to come see this!” Her excitement could no longer be contained.
Turning back there was a soft halo around her husband. The image was faint and she hardly knew what to make of it. That would be a question for later.
“Hurry, Aedon!”
“I’m coming, Izzy.”
Standing together as the great ship was sucked into the vortex she turned to him and smiled. A brilliant flash, his face and smile burned into her memory, she closed her eyes. Ringing in her ears she could hear his voice.
“Land ho, Captain!”
“Oh, are you turning pirate on me now?” she chuckled at Aedon.
“Well, not exactly dear. But we are in the Cape of Belfalas, and the land appears to be Hoing to me.”
“I’ll take it from here. Looks like supper at home tonight,” she chuckled nudging him aside with her hip.
Finally, home harbor. The sound of the gulls and thick smell of salt air always made her heart jump. The crew was well versed in pulling into their slip making it unnecessary for Capt’n Greyy to say anything. She barked out a few commands out of principle anyway, just to remind them who was captain.
Swinging down from the top deck she ran square into Aedon. Giving him a quick kiss before opening their cabin door she smiled and winked.
“Get all your gear, ‘chev?”
“Aey, capt’n!” His mock salute made her chuckle.
“I’ll meet you at the plank,” she said before slipping into the dimly lit room.
Snatching up her pack she stuffed the few random items left for the last minute. Running a finger along the soft leather-bound journal made her pause. The faint glint of metal caught her eye as she reached for a set of exquisite hair combs and put them in her pack. Turning to the door she could almost hear a faint whisper.
“I will always love you.”
|
|