The Ocean Hearth (A "Hymns of Evermorn" Story) by Lionelson NY

The sun was always bright this time of the year in Meridia but the wind was always cold. It was land with the richest maritime culture with all its history and people rooted deeply into the heart of the voyage.

But on that day, a voyager from the north east was the centre of many men’s hearts. For as a red haired maiden in green stepped out of her vessel, all heads were turned. The sailors would whistle at her while the rich men offered her a seat in their carriage.

With her nose up in the air and her hips swayed side to side, she ignored all the petty attempts to flirt with her.

It was all fun and games for the men at the docks until they saw the carriage that she was heading for. It was laced with gold, decorated with beautiful roses. Two full grown, white stallions pulled the luxurious coach. A yellow flag with the emblem of a fountain waved proudly on top of it. The men were intimidated when they realized who she was.

The coachman stepped down and bowed the fair lady.

“A thousand graces to you, Princess Quella.” He greeted, opening the door for her. And in the carriage was a much older red-haired woman, dressed elegantly in pink silk. With doe-eyes that sparkled even in her old age, she invited her in.

“Oh Quella, look how beautiful you are! Come here.” The old woman smiled and opened her arms for her. Quella returned her a smile and held her in embrace.

“I missed you too, mother” she replied. “Come now, there’s a lot of stories to tell…”