Hessins Daughter

Chapter Three

The masked ball was traditional for any large celebration like the Red Zenith. It was often adorned with themes and every lord and lady went to great lengths to making the perfect costume and mask for the affair. Foods were laid out on several tables, piled with venison, meats, fruits, breads, stews and cakes, all of which were designed to perfection to make the tables look like a piece of art themselves.

Jae’lyn stood alone near the garden entrance, sipping at a glass of wine as she stared out of the garden archway. Just beyond the floral tree’s she could see the dark expanse of the sea against the night, starry sky. She wore a simple yet elegant dress, it’s bluish color was so dark it appeared black or a shimmering blue depending on the lighting she stood in. Tiny diamonds were sewn into the gown, glinting like little stars. Her face was only partially covered in a raven mask, it’s equally blue and ebon colored plumed feathered out to blend with the single flower that held up her black and silver streaked hair.

Her neck, chest and shoulders were bare, the dress criss-crossing in a simple tie down to the small of her back whilst a lighter blue ribbon tied loosely at her waist. She chose the raven due to her escort for the night.

Lord Bao’vein was the first born and heir to the Ravengaurd seat. He was truly quite the mystery, not many knew him. When he showed up at tournaments it was usually to compete and vanish. Stories had developed due to this, rumors and hearsay but no one truly knew the truth and those who did often kept their own silence in respect of the young lords wishes.

Tonight however he had come out of his seclusion and confidently made his way towards the young lady he was to court for the night. This, of course, was arranged by the parents but unlike the other young ladies of court...Jae’lyn Ruce, the Jadded Arrow was of interest to the Raven Prince.

“My Lady Ruce?” A deep baratone voice rumbled in question as the young Lord swept a crisp and deep bow.

Jae’lyn slowly turned to the question, it was fair enough that he asked...with everyone wearing masks it could be quite possible there were other Raven’s flitting about the grand chambers. Jae’lyn forced a smile and curtsied “Yes. I am Jae’lyn Ruce. You must be Lord Bao’vein?”

The young lord straightened from his bow, and a smile appeared on perfect lips. Blue eyes glinted from behind the raven helm that covered his head down to the tip of his nose. It’s blackened silver armor met with intricate shoulder pads and armor bracers. The craftsmanship was exquisite and further made the young lord...mysterious. “I am. Would my lady care for a dance?” he continued to smile confidently as he swept out a hand in offering to her.

Jae’lyn blushed and setting her wine glass down on a stone pedestal she rested her hand in his, his fingers curling to encompass her small fingers and hold her firmly in guidance to the dance floor.

It wasn’t as bad a night as she thought it would be. He was a good a dancer and quite the gentleman. He knew what he wanted and guided her through the entire night leaving out the guess work of how to go about entertaining unwanted suitors, all she had to worry about was relaxing and enjoying the night as he confidently lead her from dances to dinners, and now a walk through the gardens while they got to know eachother with a fun game.

“Ok..ok, What is your favorite color?” Jae’lyn giggled as they walked the garden path exotic, thin statues of dragons curling up a pedastool and holding a basin of whale oil alight with flame to illuminate the pathway.

“Hm...” Bao’vein hummed in thought “I would say...blue, would be my favorite.” he chuckled, holding her arm in the crook of his.

Jae’lyn grinned “Me Too! W-well...and green, I love the colors of the sea.”

Bao’vein looked down at her, his blue eyes glinting in amusement from behind the slits of his raven helm “I think it suites you.” he answered honestly enjoying the crimson blush on her cheeks “Alright...What is your favorite pass time?”

“Pass time?” Jae’lyn looked down at her feet in thought, in truth she never really thought about it, her life never really allowed for such down time. “I would have to say reading. Or at least, the act of learning things...you know?” she looked up at him hoping she didn’t sound silly.

“Ah. Truly we were made for eachother. I understand.” he nodded “It is something I desire as well. This world has many wonderful things and it’s all there, waiting for us to discover them. Since my father doesn't allow me to travel often...I travel in the books our tower holds.”

“I’ve traveled.” Jae’lyn smiled “It is exhilarating! To see different things, cultures, it is all so vast!”

“Indeed it is.” Bao’vein nodded his agreement. “Jae’lyn... My father told me some of what you endured...” he offered, his voice lowering in understanding “How you were kidnapped when you were a child, forced to marry a dangerous war lord, endured hardships.... I don’t want you to feel obligated to our parents agenda. If ever you feel uncomfortable I...will understand.”

Most of what Bao’vein said was true. When Jae’lyn Ruce was fifteen years of age an old acquaintance of her mother, Salty Aditi Ruce, came in the middle of the night and kidnapped her youngest sister, Sylvia. Kai’dyn, Lyn’s oldest brother and herself got caught in the crossfire and was taken along for the ‘adventure’ captured by a vicious cult leader ‘The Knights of Thorns’

The Knights of Thorns was a Zealot group that believed and worshiped demons under the southern mountains, these demons were called dwellers and the cult leader claimed to of made a sinister deal with the demon in exchange for power. The deal involved a new bride for the demon king, that bride was to be Sylvia...but plans changed, and Jae’lyn protective of her sister who was only a year of age put herself in her sisters place. The deal was struck and Sylvia was allowed to go home with their brother while Jae’lyn was taken away.

It was five long years before her family was able to find her, rescue her. The demon king, her husband slain in the process. Ever since then Jae’lyn had been struggling to find her place in the world, a world that changed in five years....as did she. Her family did their best to help her fit back in but it was slow going, Jae’lyn had grown quite dependent and her family far more protective. They wanted her to have a normal life, to not suffer as she had and her mother in particular wanted her to have friends, people that could help her feel safe and welcome and while Jae’lyn knew her mother would never force her to marry, Aditi Ruce did try and get her daughter to meet new people, people of different houses and perhaps a possible husband that could help her settle down.

There were other reasons as well... Jae’lyn was a young mother of twins. The father was the former ‘Demon King’ of the cult, a first successful pregnancy in recorded history of demons and humans producing heirs. Most however didn’t believe in demons, the very idea was absurd just as Magic was strange and unheard of to the commoners of Ra’vain. Due to this, her parents changed their daughters story around, she was in fact kidnapped, by a war lord who rapped and abused her. The twins were the results of such mis-adventure. Only the family and closest of friends new the truth however.

“Its ok, really...” Jae’lyn answered Bao’vein “I mean. It’s a little strange...But I am happy to of met you. Perhaps we can continue to meet sometime...” The sounds of laughter reached their ears as another couple exited the Grand Hall to find a secluded spot in the garden whilst Jae’lyn and Bao’vein was returning. The couple however didn’t get far down the grassy path before the girl let off an ear splitting scream. Bao’vein turned, tightening his grip on Jae’lyns arm as they both looked to see what frightened the girl. It was a wolf!! A wolf in the La Seine gardens! Its jaw opened as it let out a sharp bark and growl, two more wolves prowled out of the bushes and took cautious steps towards the humans. The couple instantly clung onto each other and ran back into the hall where other screams sounded from various exits. There were more wolves! Every exit was covered by the canines as the barked, snapped and growled to herd the humans back into the hall and crowd them together in a tight gathering.

No one was sure what to do...but for now, it seemed, the wolves were not attacking. In fact they all just stood there watching, keeping the humans in their tight circle surrounding the raised podium where the king, lords and ladies stood over their subjects.

A lonely screech signaled more trouble overhead. A white snowy owl drifting in from one of the open, stainglass windows above. Another screech followed by several others had the white snowy owl joined by several others, all floating in a circle overhead while the wolves guarded the ground. If this was not curious, perhaps the creature that came in last was. The white owl was larger than it’s brothers flying around. It was as large as the great eagles of Titah, they were said to be giants of the western lands but known knew of owls of that size...until now it seemed.

The large bird slowly drifted down towards the humans while his brothers continued to circle overhead. Large, clawed talons reaching out to grip and grab at the Kings throne, standing tall atop the thrones backrest. The owls wings expanded in a graceful landing before folding back and sitting there expectantly.

“What is going on?” One of the High Lords demanded while royal guards pressed in to surround their king. Swords were drawn but they did not yet know how to confront such a threat.

It was Jae’lyn to answer, her keen, mystic eyes and knowledge in the realms of magic had seen the purpose of the owls presence “He brings a message!” She called out. Giving Bao’veins arm a squeeze she left his side and began to push through the crowd of masked lords and ladies to get to the front where her parents stood protectively around the king. “Your grace...see there, on his leg?” she continued once she made it to the front “He carries a scroll.” It was not uncommon for the people of Ra’vain to use birds to deliver messages. Usually though they would use pigeons, falcons...crows....never had an owl been used before and certainly not one of this size.

After a careful curtsy Jae’lyn stepped up onto the podium where the throne and large owl was perched. Slowly she knelt and bowed her head, reaching out with her mystic senses to touch the thoughts of the animal ‘I am Jae’lyn Ruce, Daughter of Salty Aditi Ruce. I welcome you on behalf of Ra’vain...what message do you bare?’

The large, snowy owl extended out his wings and let look a deep and vibrating ‘hoot’ that seemed to shake the very soul, it’s large talon reaching up in offering for the girl to take his message ‘The all powerful and mighty Hessin summons thee.’ were the ancient thoughts of the animal in answer to Jae’lyns question. Jae’lyn stood and carefully untied the scroll from the owls leg and once the heavy burden was relieved of it’s carrier the snowy owl beat down on the air surrounding it, gently rising up from the throne, up to the rafters with his brothers and in a unified movement all left out the window they flew in from.

Growls and snaps turned into yawns and whines of the wolves who backed away and vanished back out into the shadows of the night. Only three wolves remained however. Their leader, a large white dire wolf sat, it’s ears alert and waiting. Sitting behind him were two smaller wolves, normal size for these parts and yet insignificant compared to the giant size of their alpha. What their purpose was for, they had yet to learn.

“What does the message say, Jae’lyn?” Aditi, her mother asked from where she stood with the other Lords and ladies.

Jae’lyn frowned and looked down at the scroll in her arms. It was large, and heavy, the scroll itself stood as tall as her hip were she to set it on the ground next to her. The white ribbon wrapped around with was equally large in width as well as length, tied in an intricate knotwork pattern that held a stone at it’s center. A dragon sigil was somehow etched inside the stone making an almost optical illusion of an actual three dimensional dragon trapped inside...but surely that wasn’t possible. Struggling Jae’lyn pulled the band off the scroll and stepped back to lay it out on the stone ground under her.

The script was done in a golden ink, the color glistening and shimmering the surrounding torch light. “I...” Jae’lyn frowned “I recognize the text but...it will take some time to decipher. This is Dragon Script.”

A silent muttered sounded in the grand hall, confused and excited whispers quickly began. Dragon Script? Most common folk didn’t know what that was, and those who had seen it knew it to be very old, even less knew how to translate it. What did all this mean? The early snow fall? The army of wraiths in the woods? The wolves? Owls? A mysterious scroll?

“Your Majesty.” Ash La Seine, Lord of South Port spoke up “La Seine is well versed in the lore of dragons, our library is well suited for such studies. Jae’lyn Ruce, Kisa Rosalind, her mother Ri’ana Rosalind and daughter of La Seine were all trained to read dragon script. Including myself. Together we should be able to decipher this mysterious message.”

A young lady stepped up to stand beside the Dragon Lord. Her hair was tied up and pinned together with yellow and green flowers, her emerald dress hugging her frame as she curtsied “It is so your majesty. The sons and daughters of La Seine have been known as the dragon keepers since our fated arrival upon the cost so many centuries ago. Kisa, my daughter especially has had a keen talent in the ancient tongue. With your permission, those named would like to retire for the night. As soon as the message is learned we will send word to you for your wisdom on these strange matters.”

The king of Ra’vain was silent for a moment, his eyes searching the worried faces of his subjects before flicking back to look to the wolves that continued to stand by the entrance waiting for the humans to make their decision. “Very well then.” he nodded “You are of course excused...I will look forward to your report. Until then...” He turned to face his subjects and offered a large smile “The night is still young, let us continue our festivities and trust that answers will come to us soon.”

Reluctantly, subjects slowly dispersed to return to drinks, music was even slower to start up as the menstrials tried to find a fitting tune and dancing was all but forgotten in favor of gossip and worry.

“Jae’lyn.” A hand found the young Ruce’s arm after she had finished rolling up the scroll and hefting it up in arms.

“Bao’vein?” Lyn’s eyes turned to look to the Raven Prince who now stood next to her.

“I...” The young lord dropped his hand back to his side and tried to smile “I would like help. If that is ok?”

Jae’lyn smiled and offered a single nod “Alright. Come on then, we better catch up.” she nodded to where Lord Ash, Lady Ri’ana, Robert and Kisa Rosalind all gathered together, there was just one problem.

“How will we get past the wolves?” Bao’vein asked, not familiar with La Seine’s structures.

Jae’lyn however chuckled “We talk to them of course, they might be able to help us.”

“Wait...You speak with animals?” Bao’vein asked with a raised brow behind his raven helm, his feet quickly matching her own as he joined her side.

“Aye...” Jae’lyn nodded and bit her lower lip. She wasn’t very comfortable talking about what she could and could not do...must judged her when she did, thought she was a dreamer and story teller and mostly a little strange and not normal. She honestly felt that they feared her.

After nodding to the others to show that she was ready, Jae’lyn lead the way towards the wolves and when she was a foot away she curtsied. If these wolves meant them any harm they did not show it. In fact that large Dire Wolf that sat to Jae’lyns shoulder height lowered his massive head and bowed. “Greetings and a Happy Zenith to you.” Jae’lyn started, lacing her words with the power of tongues behind her words “We desire to retire to a quieter place where we can read your Masters message and meditate over his words. Will you join us?” she asked, guessing that they were there for a reason. If they weren’t they would have left with the other beasts.

The Large wolf stood on all fours and shook his heavy, white, snowy fur coat and looking back to his two brothers with slight sound of command before moving to the side to let Jae’lyn lead the way. Curtsying Jae’lyn started forward, followed closely by Bao’vein, the wolves and her friends.

One could honestly say the Library Magi was none to pleased to have such a gathering pile into his domain. Sputtering about the meaning of this intrusion and why the wolves were there in this quiet sanctuary. The La Seine library had once been an old church, converted into a place of study and research. It was a large building, reportedly the largest library on the coast and was protected by an elderly gentleman in grey robes.

“Forgive us Elder...” Ri’ana spoke up from the back, a smile on lips as the old man seemed to recognize her “We wont disturbe the peace here, but a matter of importance has came up and we require a tomb on Dragon Script.”

“And on the Dragon King, Hessin.” Jae’lyn added, she too seemed to get a familiar glint in the elders eyes, he had lived long enough to watch both generations grow, and had been their instructor on many subjects. Looking to each noble in the room before his eyes fell upon the large scroll.

Finally he hummed and folded his hands behind his back “Perhaps you do.” he nodded in agreement as he turned to move further into the library.

“Why Hessin, Jae’lyn?” Ri’ana asked as she joined her nieces side. The Ruce and La Seine weren’t related, and their families history had a long a bloody gap between them. But for this generation the two families had found a friendship and Ri’ana had often helped to raise the Ruce children when their parents were away or busy with running Sharkhead, the home of the Ruce and Salt Men.

“The owl told me that the scroll was from Hessin.” Jae’lyn informed.

“But how can that be? Hessin is a dragon, and in a deep sleep according to legends.” Ri’ana frowned in confusion. It was true. Hessin was one of the four dragons that ruled the lands, over years they were a terror to the survivors of the coastal lands but over time and the bravery of one young knight the dragons became worshiped as gods and goddesses and the people of South Port became the children of their deities. Peace and prosperity fell upon the people, the port rose up to be a grand city of the coast. Their banner depicting that of a mighty dragon and for many years to come their gods and goddess’s laid down to sleep, never to heard from again. Or so it was told.

“Perhaps it is someone using the name to gain your sympathy?” Bao’vein suggested as Jae’lyn rolled the scroll out on an open table, using crystals and stones to hold the edges down.

“But who?” Jae’lyn asked “Who has the power to awaken the dead, call the snow early and command the beasts of the forest? I am considered a mystic in my own right and I could hardly obtain such feats.”

“Perhaps it is not a question of one?” Bao’vein suggested, moving to Jae’lyns side as she arranged clean parchment next to the scroll and checked the inkwell to ensure it was full “Perhaps it is a school of mystics performing these feats and disguising themselves as this...Hessin.”

The young Ruce paused in her work and frowned, considering the possibilities. “Perhaps we should first know the message before we make guesses....” she finally concluded looking around to the elder and the books they requested.

The elder was up on the third floor, halfway up a ladder and peering out from his spectacles at each bookbinding muttering off titles before he could be heard exclaiming “Ah!” And pulling free an old and heavy tome. Jae’lyn chuckled, it was as if she were ten years again waiting for the old man to find his book for the days lesson.

In the end it took half the night for Ash, Ri’ana, Kisa, Robert, Jae’lyn and Bao’zhan to get a rough translation. The Wolves were of little help, merely repeating that his name was Fal’vor and that he was here to ‘Guide the way’ beyond that...he wasn’t given the contents of the message.

When they did figure out a rough translation they were left even more confused:

Phoenix, Rose, Stag, Raven, Tree, Tower, Wolf, Serpent, Dragon

Send your strongest champions

Your wisest scholars

Your learned mystics

To the foot of Mount Moorah

My first commander Fal’vor will guide the way.

By Decree of the Mighty Hessin, second son of Atar and father of the Sea.

“What does it mean?” Bao’vein asked after Jae’lyn had read the message for a fourth time to ensure they had translated it to the best of their knowledge.

“What it means....” Jae’lyn answered as she set the parchment down “Is simple enough. The first part are the houses. Our banners...Your Raven, the Rosalinds are the rose, the Ruce the serpent, the La Seine the Dragons...” she sighed and rested her hands on the table, hanging her head between shoulders tiredly “But why would Hessin...A dragon...wish for us to travel to Mount Moorah?”

“And more importantly..where is, Mount Moorah?” Kisa asked from where she laid on the sofa, her unstrung bow balancing on her forehead in a never ending headache it seemed.

It was Fal’vor, the large white wolf to answer it seemed. The giant canine stretching and straightening himself up from where he rested by the hearth to move towards a map hanging on the wall. Rising up with a paw outstretched the wolf rested his large paw in the white section that indicated the cold, wild norths.

“The Wilds?!” Kisa yelped, her bow catering from it’s balanced perch to the floor as she sat up “But...Its cold there...and...cannibales!”

Jae’lyn scrunched her nose and smirked at her friend “You're not afraid are you?”

Kisa smirked “You wish. Still, why would Hessin be there?”

“Well he is the god of winter and father of the sea. He is my god and needs my help. Im going.” Jae’lyn stated simply still studying the map.

“Careful little Lyn.” Ri’ana cautioned from where she sat, she and her husband Robert were the oldest of the study group “You're a mother remember? You are needed here with your Twins and besides...your father would never allow it.”

Jae’lyn sighed and turned to face her aunt “Aunt Ri’ana....I am not a child anymore, I have lived on my own since I was Twelve years and I understand the dangers. This is important, I can hear Mother sea even now...Hessin calls to me and besides. Out of all of us, I am one of the very few who can communicate with our guide, or know how to traverse the sea waters there. I need to do this.”

“But you don’t even know what ‘this’ is. I’m just saying to be cautious” Ri’ana smiled “Meditate on what we know, converse with Mother Sea and if you still feel strongly about it then we can make further plans from there. But we cannot do either if we are dead on our feet. We still four hours before the sun rises. Let us rest and refresh for clear mind on the marrow.”

Bao’vein nodded “I believe Lady Rosalind speaks wisely. We have been at this all night...we should rest and meditate on the matter.”

They were right. Jae’lyn knew that much...but the prospect of a new adventure and a chance to meet a dragon rang strongly to the young mystics soul. Still...she too was tired “Alright...but only one day.”

The young Raven Prince chuckled “Come. I am still your escort this night...let me at least see you safely to your room”

Jae’lyn blushed at the reminder, she had completely forgotten. The message had taken up their night “Alright. Perhaps tomorrow I can make this up to you?” she chuckled “This was supposed to your night.”

Bao’vein laughed lightly and extended a hand out to her “I would sooner be tossed in the sea rather than deny such an offer.” he rumbled in an amused purr “But I should hope that it would be ‘our’ night instead of mine alone.”

Jae’lyns cheeks reddened even more as he kissed her hand and pulled it to the crook of his arm to guide her from the library and the work they were leaving there. The Elder would ensure it remained safe. As an after thought she looked back to the three wolves “You and your deputies are welcome to stay with me tonight. Commander Fal’vor.” she told the wolf who gave a growling bark of agreement, nipping at the sleeping deputies as they padded up onto their paws and followed after the Ruce Mystic.

The next morning Jae’lyn did as she was asked. She woke up bright and early and packed up a bag of warm clothes, her staff, quiver of arrows, two fur blankets and some food to snack on before leaving the Green Dragon Tavern for the day. It had snowed again, the snow was so thick and heavy that it now reached up to her knees where it had yet to be shoveled by the citizens of the port. This was all so very odd to those of South Port, snow did not often fall like this here...at most the port saw frost, slush, mud and ice...not fields and blankets of white fluff.

With her were the wolves. It seemed they had decided to follow her around and Fal’vor was growing impatient. He did not like this day of rest and pondering as it was a day lost on their mission. Jae’lyn however understood. If Demons were impossible and Magic mere story to most....the thought of a dragon summoning their best was very suspicious.

It was not that they didn’t believe in dragons. No, the citizens, Lords and Ladies all were very much reminded of their existence when a volcano in the east exploded and shook all of Ra’vain. The disturbance had awoken a dragon hidden in his lair above South Port. Angry and tired he rained terror and fire on her people and everyone had no choice but to believe. That dragon was a young dragon however. He was only half the size of the gods and goddesses worshiped by La Seine. And his intelligence was that of a child throwing a tantrum. A deadly tantrum at that. And that, was one of many reason why the Lords and Ladies hesitated. If by some chance this was real...were they sending their people into the jaws of a hungry dragon or were they being fooled by a school of wannabe wizards mocking their gods name?

For Lyn, it was easy to find the answer. Easy enough in her mind at least. As a Mystic she had a different avenue to knowledge rather than books and scrolls. She had the sea.

According to the tombs she study the night before and from her previous lessons on the six mighty dragons; Mighty Hessins was the father of the sea, some texts even said that he was the sea. Two different religions and yet there were similarities, the only difference was that her people called the sea their mother. While those who worshiped the dragons....there father. No matter the difference however....Jae’lyn was Laision, A mystic of the sea and she could converse with her. Perhaps if the sea is connected with the Mighty Hessin she would be able to find a more, direct answer.

The sun had yet to show his brilliant face, the sky was a darkened reddish hue of the morning daybreak and the cove was empty save for Jae’lyn and the three wolves. It took short work to lay out her furs and start up a decent burning fire for the wolves to sit around upon the snow covered beach. The sea tides created a constant, melodic roar as Jae’lyn sat upon the furs with her eyes closed. Meditating on the sounds around her. The crackling of the fire, the crunch of snow under the moving trio of wolves, Yaavie, the wind whistling through the coves cliff face crevices...Whales singing their songs far in the distance and below the depths of the water. Sharks in a frenzy over a fresh kill, crabs clacking their claws....she could hear it all...even the subtle, siren call of the sea whispering ‘....come to me....why are you so far from my side....come speak with me my sweet child....’

The slender, small form slinked across the docks. Little bare footprints left an impression upon the salty sand before the gentle waves rolled up and washed them away. The beaches of Sharkhead port had been combed and sifted over the years, cleaned of the nasty biting rocks to leave a soft and welcoming beach line. It was a beautiful night. The moon was brighter than ever and looked twice it’s size. Illuminating a crystal white path to mark the way. No splash sounded as the shadow jumped down into a small cove, followed by a playful giggle that seemed to dance on the gentle breeze. The shadow twisted and twirled, kicking up sand with arms outstretched to the sky and moon. Once content with the show of delight the shadow slipped to the rocks and started to tug and pull at something rather large towards the shoreline where water reached out and pulled, shifting sand under feet and causing the shadow to slip and sink further into it. It was an old fishers boat and the shadow was female, marked by the siren like sound of her voice as she giggled “I’m coming..I’m coming! So impatient. This thing is...Heavy! Little help?”

The sea surged back, pulling into the depths before rolling forward and knocking both girl and boat about. The girl laughed gleefully as she floundered about some, now sopping wet. Black and silver streaked hair clinging to cheeks “Hey! you did that on purpose!” she giggled as she used small hands to steady the boat now bobbing peacefully on the waters surface.

Following the young girl was another shadow that moved onto the beach like a predator stalking its prey. The sand was barely disturbed as the shadow sometimes went down onto all four of its short limbs to keep up with the girl. It did not have the need for the same happy finesse that its prey showed. Its motive was to keep up and see what she was doing.

Closer and closer it came upon her as she tried to pull the boat out to see. And just when it appeared the stubby shadow was upon her it found its food caught against one of the rare dull black rocks that still hid itself in the sand from another generation. He stumbled and fell face first into the ground. “Ow...” the young boy said with his nose still buried in the sand. The grit tasted of salt as he spat out the grains that’d found its way into his mouth.

Shaking the sand from his long dark auburn hair the ten year old boy picked himself back up quickly and adjusted his gaze back on the girl. “Lyn, what are you doing?!” He whispered the shout to his older sister, grey eyes looking around worriedly to see if someone had spotted them down on the shoreline.

Lyn, the girl next to the boat heard her brothers voice and sighed “Rohir!” She almost whined. “I could ask you the same thing!” she snipped as she pushed the boat enough to bob on the shore before grabbing a rope and moving to his side, hands on hips.

Despite being two years young and smaller than his older sister, Rohir stood his ground. Folding his arms and pouting he spoke back in a loud whisper, “Well obviously I came out here to see what you’re doing! You’re going to get in so much trouble if mum finds out you’re out here.”

“Yea, thats why your not telling!” she whispered back, before sighing and reaching a hand out to help him out of the sand “Ok? Promise?”

Still pouting he accepted the hand, “Fine, I promise. But only if you tell me what you’re doing.” With his sister’s help he managed to stand up from the sand and brush his pants of the offending grains.

“Tomorrow's my birthday” she announced proudly “Remember? I’ll be twelve. I wanted to be on the Sea when the moon reaches it’s zenith. It will be there soon...Want to come?”

“You mean out in the water at night?” he asked wearily. Small eyes glinting from the moonlight darted towards the edge of the beach. Small waves crashed against the land gently but unlike the rest of his family Rohir wasn’t such a good swimmer. He wished he was and practiced but water wasn’t his element, not like his older brother and sister. Sucking in the cool salty air he worked up his nerve to show he wasn’t afraid. “S-sure! I’d like to come along.”

“Great!” Lyn cheered happily “And don’t worry It will be a snap. We will get there in no time. And don’t worry, mother sea promises you will be safe. No tricks this time. Well, Come on!” wading into the water with no care at how wet or cold it was she pushed the boat closer to the shoreline so that her brother could get in without getting wet.

“That’s what mother sea said the last time and I got covered in seaweed,” Rohir groans before he pulled himself up into the boat, one leg catching over the edge to send him tumbling into the boat. He blamed it on his nerves and not on his clumsiness.

Lyn giggled as she jumped in after pulling it out of the shallows, she was sopping wet head to toe and seemed perfectly happy about it “No, that was just me and Kai teasing you.” she snickered. With practiced, calloused hands, Lyn pulled the oars and set them in their notches before she started the steady ‘swoosh, slip, dip’

“Well it wasn’t funny,” Rohir grumbled, his nails digging into the sides of the boat as he watched his sister start to set the boat in motion. Most times he’d offered to help, given his entire family worked on the sea and were comfortable in the water he wanted to prove that he wasn’t scared. But this was different, it was night time on the sea and the sharks liked to come by shore to eat the smaller fish. Like him. “Why couldn’t this wait until morning, Lyn? I mean.. maybe dusk when nobody’s awake yet. It’s too dark out now...”

“Too dark? Rohir! look at that moon! It’s not dark at all. Besides, I want to be there when the moon is at it’s highest. That was when I was born and when today turns into tomorrow.” She grinned excitedly “I want to be there at that very moment. You're not...scared, are you?” she giggled.

“I’m not scared!” Rohir whispered loudly, bristling at the notion of ever being scared of some water or darkness. Casting his eyes up to the moon he found a little bit more comfort in the sky. He always loved the stars, they were comforting to him along with the moon that was indeed bright out tonight. “I’m not scared,” he repeated. Prying his hands off the sides of the boat he folded his arms, “Just cautious like Uncle Arkhil says I should be.”

“Being cautious is good” she smiled “Don’t you trust me?”

“Besides all the tricks you and Kai pull on me?” Rohir smiled back at his sister. Quickly he nodded, “Sure I do.”

“Aww You know it’s all in good fun. I would never put you in needless danger” she smiled and meant it. The problem was...what Lyn called ‘safe’ was far greater than what others might. Like going out on an old, rickety fishers boat, to a jagged reef, out at the sea, in the middle of the night where Gauleels, sharks and other dangerous creatures roamed just inches underneath. That wasn’t dangerous at all!

Rohir though, innocent as ever, was oblivious in all that as he trusted his sister entirely. Smiling still he looked towards the direction they were going. “So how come you didn’t invite Kai to come?”

“He wouldn’t approve.” Lyn frowned and shrugged “I’ll make it up to him when hes more awake.”

“His loss then,” Rohir grinned. “We can fill him in the morning then, I’m sure he wouldn’t mind sleeping in.”

“Nope!” Lyn grinned as well “I would be too but tonight is just way too important!” The boat suddenly rocked as a wave lapped up and hit the side. Lyn was still smiling as she giggled “I know I know! I’m hurrying! You could help you know.” she tugged and pulled on the ores

“Oh right! Sorry!” Rohir smiled sheepishly as he moved to try and sit besides his sister to help row. It didn’t exactly occur to him that she wasn’t talking to him specifically. He didn’t fully understand his sisters ways or her gifts. She was special for sure, and that wasn’t him trying to be an envious little brother, but at times it confused Rohir when she started talking to things that weren’t there.

Lyn giggled “Not you!! I mean, Thank you for helping but I meant mother sea could always help speed things up. One big wave would get us there in a jiffy!”

“”Oh... Uh sorry,” the little brother again smiled sheepishly before directing his attention towards the sea again to apologize to mother sea. It wouldn’t be said out loud but the young boy wasn’t very fond of an idea of a big wave, even if it would get them to their destination sooner.

Lyn smiled sisterly at her brother as if she knew his fears, wrapping an arm around him in a big side hug she looked up at the large moon that looked so much bigger than normal “Yup! Today is special. I’m glad you're here.”

The little boat seemed to bob in the water for several hours, rocking and swaying with the gentle waves as the sea carried them to the reef, looming closer and closer. Asides from the lap of water against the boat's hull and the occasional splash of a fish somewhere in the inky blackness, it was quite and peaceful. At last, the large looming moon seemed to be at it’s highest peak in the sky and Lyn brought in the oars as she whispered reverently “We’re here...”

Sensing the tone of her voice, Rohir was gentle as he eased off the oar. It made barely a splash in the calm waters as his wondrous eyes again beheld the moon looking high above them. Something in his mind told him to stay silent, as if this place was holier than any church he’d read about in his history books. The fear of disturbing the delicate silence was paramount in his mind, but more than anything he wanted to give his sister this chance to take in the moment.

When Rohir was moved to look. He would've found the eyes of his sister watching him carefully. She was smiling gently, almost affectionately. “You know...” she whispered “When Mama told us how you were different from us, didn’t share the same father....I didn’t care. You were always my baby brother. I love you more than anything. You know that right?”

The little brother’s blush could be seen even in the moonlight. “Quit it Lyn... You’re embarrassing me...” he said bashfully. Her words though gave him a warm, comforting feeling in his chest. Most of his family were very accepting of him... Even knowing that his father wasn’t the same nor was he a name that was spoken very often. Yet sometimes he knew when he wasn’t looking his Uncle Agrippa would fix him with this look of sheer... loathing... And he sometimes felt that he wasn’t so accepted. Sins of the father and all, he didn’t even want to think about how his step-father looked at him. “But... thank you... really.” The boy said with a smile.

Lyn giggled just before the boat suddenly lurched and a spray of water splashed up at them. Lyn Sighed and rolled her eyes quite obviously “Ok, Ok I know! Geesh.” Shifting in the boat she left her seat and crouched some to keep her balance, standing on the pads of her bare feet. She gave her half brother a wide and comforting smile “You trust me. Right?”

On instinct the boy’s hands went out to clamp down on the sides of the boat. His heart skipped a beat and his eyes jumped to Lyn. The look she gave him was a small comfort that helped relax his grip on the boat from bone white to just a reddening of quickened blood. Deep breathes steadied his heart as he tried to nod but now he wasn’t so sure. But that was the fear talking, he wouldn’t be afraid. He nodded again more confidently, his tongue had stopped working and his teeth were clamped tightly.

“Good!” Lyn smiled “I want you to do me a favor. Ok? For my birthday? You will won’t you?” She shifted again and took off her white cloak that hung about her shoulders for warmth. Now leaving them bare in the plain white gown she wore “Remember that song mama always sings us? Can you sing it for me?”

Rohir bit at his lower lip trying to further stop his rapid heart and keep calm despite the memory of the bump below their boat. Closing his eyes slowly he took several more breaths before he started to sing softly.

“Can you hear the calling of the raving winds and waters? We just keep dreaming- of the land- cross the seas. We are on the way, to find a place where we belong. Wandering to nowhere. We’re sailing. Down the raging sea...”

*Splash*

Water sprayed out to kiss his cheeks as the boat rocked from Lyn jumping off it’s side, diving so elegantly into the water. Her slender form slipping down into the inky blackness where the tides of the sea pressed in and pulled her further into the depths.