1 - Home
I open my eyes slowly, praying to whatever god is out there that I don’t wake up in my bed. I gently stretch my arms out to feel the moss beneath my back- cool, soft, welcoming. The wind blows lightly over my body, inviting me to race it to the willow or to the brook that is quietly singing nearby. Above me, the trees sway softly, allowing aureate light to shine through the small spaces of the leaves. I roll onto my side and sit up, breathing in the florid smell of the world around me.
Just where I wanted to be…
I gingerly climb to my feet, careful not to disturb the moss. I steady myself on the mountainous willow that once served as a resting place for my head. The bark of the tree is aged and weathered, serving as a reminder that beauty knows no age. I turn to find the timeworn path that I have traveled many times. Reluctantly, I scamper towards it, knowing that I’ll be home soon. The dirt of the path is loose, coloring the pads of my feet a rich auburn as I trek into town. My fingers dance through the vines and moss hanging from the trees as I pass through them, feeling the intricate detail of each one I touch. I stray from my path to stop and look at the glistening water in the brook. It bubbles and rolls so peacefully, carefully moving through the rocks and gravel.
I turn my attention back to the beaten up pathway. I step cautiously over the roots of the willows as I continue my journey. I gaze at the hills that are dusted with various shades of pink and yellow. Smiling, I realize how close I am to the town. I slowly begin to run, laughing as the breeze whips through my hair. I pace myself as I reach the entrance of Athaneum.
The town, small and humble, is bustling with life. Sailors are moving back and forth between their boats and the docks, moving crates filled with unimaginable creatures. Shopkeepers are calling out to passerbys, trying to sell their mysterious goods, surreal in color. Children bob in and out of the crowd, toting strings that stretch the length of the sky behind them. Following the strings, I notice the children are harnessing the clouds. The littlest of the bunch seems to be moving in slow motion as he tries his hardest to keep his cloud from pulling him away. I look out into the distance, checking to see if the aidones have woken from their slumber. Slowly, the huge creatures rise to their feet.
“Beautiful, aren’t they?” says a familiar voice from beside me. I turn my head to meet the sound of her voice.
“Not as beautiful as you, my darling.”
She smiles softly, holding her hand out to me.
“Welcome home, Ferelith.”
I take her hand, feeling a warmth spread through my body at her touch. “It’s good to be back, Seren,” I reply, smiling. Together we walk into the heart of Athaneum, ready to explore the mysteries and wonders of this magical place. As we make our way through the bustling crowds, I feel a sense of belonging wash over me. This is my home, where anything is possible and magic is real. I can’t wait to see what adventures await us.
