14th of Alturiak - CoRD Epilogue 2 - Impresk

Slowly the half-elf walked through the quiet village of Impresk. He had a lot on his mind lately. So much had happened so fast. He could still hear the voice of Josiah in his ears. ”Lathander has given you two charges. The first is to release Dagadar from its five millennia curse. Secondly, you are to put an end to the Darkness threatening to blot out the Southwest of Faerun. Though it cannot be seen by the naked eye, its power - if not stopped - will grow to touch every living being in the region. Dark shifts of power are happening everywhere now, both in lands men can see, and in Realms they cannot. The next years will see evil return, with plots grander in scale than ever before. The good and faithful will be needed to combat it, starting with you and your companions." Once again, something from Ashara’s memory. Memories that were now his.

Two quests. Success on both counts.

It was a strange feeling to have been given a quest from a god. Even stranger to have completed it. Somehow the Champions of the Red Dawn had been up to the task. Dragons both living and undead, wizards, assassins... they had faced them all and survived. Though he’d never admitted it, there were many times he didn’t believe they would. The task was so huge, how could mere mortals hope to come through it unscathed? Perhaps they hadn’t.

He could still see the ruins of Calimport. He still saw the dead and dying. He still saw the green flames. He imagined he would for some time. Such a strong contrast to the peace he saw around him now. It was midmorning on the Fourteenth of Alturiak. Past the midpoint of winter, but not by much. The air was still cold, but the sun was bright. All in all it would be a beautiful day. Everyone agreed that tomorrow would be same.

Tomorrow. As he looked about he wasn’t surprised where his feet had led him. Off in the distance he could see a glint as the sun reflected off the brass of the Altar of the Dawn. The altar where tomorrow he was going to be married.

Seeing the Altar only reminded him how much he missed Ashara. He hadn’t seen her since yesterday morning, and while she’d warned him that she wouldn’t be back till this afternoon, it didn’t make the missing any easier. He looked down at the mithril band on his finger and smiled. There was some comfort there. Wherever she was, whatever she was doing, she wasn’t in any danger.

For perhaps the hundredth time today he wondered where she’d gone. She had dodged the question when he’d asked. She simply said she had to take care of something. The mischievious glint in her eyes made him only the more curious, and the memory of the kiss goodbye only made him miss her more. He knew that even when she did return, Arryn and Gwilly would monopolize her with preparations for tomorrow. She’d warned they might not see each other till the ceremony.

It was going to be a long day.

The half-elf didn’t linger and he didn’t get too close to the altar. This was his second trip around the village. The first time he’d gotten too close and Gwilly had informed him in no uncertain terms what would happen if he ruined her surprises! Remembering the Pixies threats with a grin he continued on his journey.

His head cleared, he turned and started walking toward the House of the Golden Harvest. He had a few preparations of his own. Harvestmaster Tobias had assured him that whatever flowers he’d need, they would have available. It was time to put him to the test.

Ashara's heart sang for joy as she danced through the streets towards an old oak that would Transport her back to Impresk. The last eleven years of her life had been devoted to the Morninglord, but it was now at this moment that she felt closest to her deity. Never had she anticipated a dawn with such eagerness as the one that would rise tomorrow! A new life. A new name. The beginning of a new family with her best friend, the man she loved so completely!

It was not yet noon when she clutched the precious package close to her, still in awe of what had come of just a fragment of an idea. A sliver of a hope. She knew she wouldn't be able to wait until tomorrow to give it to him, she was just not that strong, but there was no doubt in her mind that as soon as she set foot in her parent's home, that she would be bombarded with things needing to get done before the wedding. She chuckled again in disbelief as she stepped through the tree and out in front of the Rosemorns' home.

Just as she thought, as soon as she opened the door, her mother rushed over and jerked her into a big hug. Ashara had never seen the tiny woman so excited before, and her happiness only multiplied that of the priestess. Arryn Rosemorn pushed her to arms' length and looked her up and down before launching into a verbal torrent.

"We ain't got much time fer alterations, Ashes, and ye were told t' EAT! Bah... Well, ain't nothin' t' be done fer it now! Opal's on 'er way over with the dress, so ye best go upstairs n' get cleaned up!" The woman scrunched up her nose. "Why do ye smell like smoke?! I ain't wantin' t' know... Just go, girl, there's things need gettin' done, and I ain't got but a few hours t' do 'em in!"

"Wait, wait!" Ashara managed to interrupt as she was being shoved bodily up the stairs. "Can someone tell Eddick I need to see him as soon as possible? It's important!"

"Aye, fine," she consented, adding another 'to do' to her list, "I'm sure Gwilly'll know where he is. Now go! Water's already heated fer ya. If ye come back down still smellin' o' smoke, I'm gonna send ye right back up, so do what ye needs t' do t' get that out!" Arryn gasped as she got a look at her daughter's hands. "WHAT have ye done t' yerself!? Chauntea's thumb, girl, have ye been diggin' in the mud!?"

Ashara opened her mouth to respond, but her mother held up her hand to stop her. "I said I AIN'T wantin' t' know! Now's not time fer talkin', now's time for movin', now GO!"

The priestess hustled up the stairs and set the package on the desk in her old bedroom before hurrying off to get scrubbed up as best she could. Tomorrow she'd have a spell that would do a better job, but there was no hope of explaining that to her excited whirlwind of a mother.

Her heart pounded in her chest, wondering what Elric was doing right now. Would the other Champions have plans for him this evening? Ashara had hoped that she might have a moment to see him today, but from the frantic look in Arryn's eyes, she didn't think that was going to be a possibility. Hopefully Eddick would get the message and come see her soon. She really wanted to give Elric his wedding gift today, and she hoped the druid could take it to him.

"SCRUB FASTER!" Her mother shouted up the stairs, so Ashara obliged with more haste.

It was going to be a long day.

Failure!

Once again a ruined circlet of branches hit the floor. Elric could feel himself getting frustrated. He knew what he wanted to do, but it just wasn’t... perfect. He knew how to make the crown. Harvestmaster Tobias had explained the principle and it was easy enough, but apparently he hadn’t the skill.

To be honest, the half-elf had been quite impressed with the House of the Golden Harvest. Tobias had made good on his claim for flowers. Even in the dead of winter, leave it to priests of Chauntea to have an overflowing greenhouse. Of course whether they had been preserved since summer, or grown especially for today. He had no way of knowing. Tobias and the others seemed to know exactly what he wanted and exactly what he needed. They seemed amused by his nervousness. After what seemed like an eternity of quiet chuckles and bemused smiles, Tobias finally let him in on the joke. This may be his first wedding, but it wasn’t theirs!

Elric may have joined them with a laugh or two, but it didn’t help alleviate the butterflies in his stomach. Actually to him they felt more like pixies, and that thought did make him laugh. They’d warned him he may not be happy with the first crown, many new grooms weren’t. So they loaded him up with all the roses and crocuses flowers he could carry and sent him on his way.

They were right. He hadn’t been satisfied with the first crown he’d woven. Or the second. Or the third! When Ashara had first explained the marriage ritual it seemed simple enough. They were each responsible for weaving a crown of flowers for the other to wear. Simple enough. People have been doing it for centuries. Why was HE having so much trouble! Just over a week ago he’d attended Dunner Fenkeep’s wedding, and even he had made his bride a perfectly nice crown.

Maybe he set his standards too high. Maybe he was getting used to things being too easy. If Eddick were here he could probably talk the branches into doing what he wanted them to! He wasn’t sure where the druid was. With him it was hard to tell. He could be at the altar with Gwilly preparing for tomorrow. He could be at his grove. Honestly, knowing the druid, he could be halfway across the realms! Didn’t matter. He remembered the excitement in Eddick’s voice when Ashara asked him to lead the ceremony. Wherever he was, Elric was sure he’d be back in time.

Honestly, even if Eddick was here, Elric never would have asked for help and he would have refused it if offered. This was his responsibility. He really wanted it to be perfect. Tossing one more wreath to the ground he let out a long sigh. That one wasn’t perfect either.

Looking out the window he was surprised by the time. He’d been at this for quite a few hours now. It was well past noon and between the mounting frustration and the knowledge he hadn’t eaten anything today, he decided to take a break. His wreathes were not improving. Truthfully he was only getting worse at it. It was taking less and less time for him to decide each wouldn’t work.

Setting the plants down he decided to go get a late lunch. He’d originally planned on eating at the house, but his nerves insisted that he ‘do’ something. So perhaps a walk down to the Mangy Manticore was in order. Try to relax for a bit and start over with a new perspective. See if that helped. It was only the third time today that he’d tried to walk off this nervous energy... maybe the third time was the charm?

It seemed completely out of place in the humble little room. She blinked once or twice as her eyes adjusted to the startling whiteness of the wedding dress that hung before her. The satin bodice had a soft, flattering structure, complementing the floating, almost diaphanous quality of the skirt. The rounded neckline was cut low enough to accommodate the medallion that her mother knew she wouldn't want to be without on that day or any other. The sleeves were fitted to the elbow, where they opened up and drifted to the floor, and a sash that would rest loosely at the hips, was tied with a knot in the front, the long ends blending in with the skirt. The most remarkable thing that she noticed was the design on the bodice. In white thread on the white satin, Mrs. Blacklace had embroidered a large, stylized sun rising over a lake. The symbol of the Champions of the Red Dawn.

Ashara's breath caught in her throat. She had never been much for fancy clothes or frilly things, or anything that she'd have to be too concerned about getting a little dirt on. She was a farmer's daughter after all. She much preferred the natural joys of the fields and mountains and lake that surrounded their little village, to the ephemeral pleasures that wealth could provide. But this dress looked as if it were made of water and of air, and she couldn't deny the beauty of it.

"Momma," she managed to choke out, while tears welled in her eyes, "it's too much! You didn't have to..." The hard lump in her throat prevented her from finishing her thought.

Arryn Rosemorn was watching her daughter's reaction with a satisfied smile on her face. "Nonsense! We've been savin' fer this day fer twenty years now, and I wanted to be sure t' get somthin' that suited ye. I'm thinkin' this'll do just that. Now let's get ye in it n' see how it fits!"

For all the concern her mother had about alterations needing to be done in time, after lacing up the back of it, there was really very little that needed to be adjusted. When Ashara saw her reflection, her stomach tied itself into tight knots. This was really happening! She couldn't understand why she was so nervous, and she wondered if Elric was feeling the same way. There was certainly nothing for her to be worried about, but she supposed there was some nervous excitement that went along with all changes in life, and this was going to be a pretty big change!

Her mother's eyes wrinkled up at the corners in a happy smile, "There's one more thing..." She moved over to the closet as she continued to speak. "We n'er expected ye t' choose the middle o' winter fer yer weddin' day, but somehow I'm doubtin' either o' ye'd be willin' t' put it off fer another month! So," she said pulling a large fold of red fabric from the shelves, "we had this made fer ye too, t' protect ye a bit from the Claw o' Winter."

The heavy, hooded cape rested on her shoulders and hung to the floor. It was made of crimson velvet, with golden designs embroidered along the edges. After taking in the whole effect of the outfit, Ashara hoped that Elric would even recognize her! It would be awkward if there was some confusion... Ebbard should only be walking with one girl though, so that should provide a pretty decent clue.

She hadn't seen her father at all since she'd been back from the city, and she assumed that he was just trying to stay out of the way of all the fussing that was going on. Couldn't really blame the man. Even she was hoping to find a little peace while she worked on Elric's crown. That would be her next stop!

The walk was invigorating. With his cloak wrapped around him he barely felt the cold air. This particular trip, the town was a little more active. Everyone he met had a wave and a kind word to say. Apparently Ashara was right, and as soon they had left, her mother had spread the word about them. Everyone knew what was happening in the morning, and they all seemed honestly pleased for them.

He felt a little awkward being the subject of such attention. Still he waved back, thanking them for their well wishes and trying to remember all their names. Impresk wasn’t that large, but in reality he hadn’t spent that much time there. He recognized the faces of the men readily enough from the tavern, but the women were a little trickier. Still he was fairly confident that he’d made it to the tavern without completely embarrassing himself.

As he stepped into the Mangy Manticore he was greeted by more cheers. Elric sighed again. He was beginning to wonder if he may be getting TOO popular! The tavern wasn’t crowded by any means, but it would be fair to say they did a lot better business in the winter than they did the summer.

After another round of handshaking and pats on the back, he finally made it to the bar and ordered some stew and an ale. Even the tavern keep wasn’t above unexpected generosity. As Elric reached for his money, Bronic rather forcefully explained to him that the stew and his first ale were on the house. Bewildered he tried to slowly find an empty table when he heard a familiar voice from the corner.

“Sit down ‘ere son.” Ebbard Rosemorn said, pointing to an empty chair with his pipe. Ebbard seemed serious, but not as grim or cold as the last time they’d spoken alone. As the half-elf took the offered chair, Ebbard continued. “Didn’t expect to be seein’ much of ye’ today.”

“I didn’t expect to be seen. I just... needed to get out of the house for a bit.” If the half-elf thought he was hungry before, it was nothing compared to what he felt after getting the first whiff of Bronic’s stew. He immediately started spooning it into his mouth.

Ebbard snorted. “Sounds familiar... Just about got run out of me own house! Been bad enough wit’ them women folk the last couple of days, but when Ashes got back, I knew it was time to get out their way.”

Elric smirked as he pictured Arryn Rosemorn teamed with Gwilly in party planning. “Is it as bad as all...” Suddenly something he said finally registered. “Wait a minute... Ashara’s back?” He stood up excitedly.

“Sit yer’self down boy!” Ebbard said with a chuckle. “Aye’ She’s back, but she’s busy right now. Now I already had a few bites taken out of my backside today. If ye show up and distract their bride... Them women will eat ye alive!”

Elric was about to argue when he just started laughing himself, and slowly sat back down. He wanted to rush over there, but there was wisdom in Ebbard’s words. Distraction was an very apt term for what would happen. It wouldn’t do any good to get both Gwilly and Arryn upset at them. He would just have to practice that patience thing he kept hearing about...

The two of them sat and talked for a while as Ebbard watched his future son-in-law finish his lunch. They had never really sat and just talked before. The subjects were varied, and more than once the topic of Arturo had come up. Elric was feeling the absence of his father on this day more than any other in recent memory. It did him good to talk to his fathers best friend. Once his meal ended Ebbard’s face got serious.

“Now... I’ll be needin’ a promise from ye.” Elric watched Ebbard speaking, neither of them seemed to blink. “Tomorrow ye’ll be makin’ a lot of promises. To Lathander, to Ashara, well... this one’s to me!” Elric nodded for him to continue.

“Ye and me daughter’s chosen a dangerous road. Now I ain’t askin’ ya to explain yer feelin’s or nuthin’ like that... I’ve seen the way ye two look at each other... I'm old, but I ain't blind. I’m wantin’ ye to promise me that ye’ll do whatever ye can to keep her safe out there.”

Elric felt the old man studying him, and he didn’t blink. Looking him straight in the eye and with a voice like steel he promised. “Everything in my power!” The old man’s mouth crinkled up into a smile as he nodded.

“Good enough. Man can’t ask for more then that. Just see that ye do!” The light danced in his eyes as he added, “I’d be awkward in the next world if I had to explain to Arturo why I killed his boy!” Elric spit ale on the table and they both burst into laughter.

“Don’t think I could eh?” Ebbard laughed, “I may be older now, but don’t count me out yet! I may not have ever walked up to a dragon and... “ He seemed to stumble for the right word.

“Throat punched!” Bradwen shouted out. The room burst into laughter and Elric blushed as he realized that everyone was listening in.

“Aye, Throat punched a dragon... But don’t ye be doubtin’ what I’d do to protect me girl!”

Elric grinned from ear to ear as he just shook his head. “You have nothing to worry about. It’ll never come to that...”

“Well, had to be said! Arryn’s father had the same talk with me, and I’m havin’ it with you! So there it is!” Ebbard nodded matter of factly and as quickly as it started, the conversation was over.

“Now tell me son,” Ashara’s father said with a knowing smirk. “How many crowns ye up to?”

Elric’s shoulder’s slumped and his ears started to blush in embarrassment. “Seven.”

“Hmm... not bad, You’ll get it.” Ebbard smiled. “Took me nine before I got Arryn’s right!”

Eddick leaned up against the doorframe, unnoticed due to some amazing embroidery. It was fine work, not the finest Eddick had ever seen, but it was done with love, and so it made it very special. The old druid knew that his gift to the couple was expensive, but he did not make it himself, so he hoped it would not get lost in the shuffle.

It was always so hard to buy gifts when you did not care about material items. Eddick wouldn't admit it, but the song that Elric wrote for him was probably the most thoughtful gift he ever received. He must have spent quite a lot of time on it, and he remembered hearing him playing it, but not singing along until he announced that he wrote it for him specifically.

She would look amazing in that dress. He decided to tell her so. "With a dress like that, no one will be looking at the sunrise."

There was still so much to be done! Back in her vestments now, she couldn't help but to stop just one more time, to admire the work Mrs. Blacklace had done.

"With a dress like that, no one will be looking at the sunrise."

Thinking she had been alone, Ashara was surprised when she spun around to see the old druid watching her. She blushed and skipped over to her friend. "It is beautiful, isn't it," the priestess beamed at him, hugging him tightly, "but there's really only one person I care to have looking at me tomorrow morning!"

"Thank you for coming, Eddick! I haven't seen hide nor hair of the Champions since I came home, and in spite of the chaos of this house I'm feeling a bit lonely!" She laughed softly and felt the butterflies swirling around in her stomach again when she walked over to her desk to pick up the gift. The black leather case was four feet long, ten inches wide and five inches thick. Ashara carried it gingerly over to the druid and placed it in his arms.

"I was hoping you could take this to Elric for me, as it seems I won't be able to get away to do it myself..." She gently ran her fingers over the case before looking up at Eddick. "I... I just thought he should have it today. Would you mind, my friend? There is a note inside that will explain everything to him."

Eddick accepted the hug and gift with the utmost of dignity. After her simple request was given to him, he bowed a little too deeply and came up with an almost imperceptible smile. "Your wish is my command, milady." It was impossible not to smile with such radiance in the room. "I will deliver it to him straight away."

Stealing another hug, he did an about face and headed for the door. He really had no idea where Elric was at the time, so he asked a talkative squirrel who hung around town quite a bit. Mr. Nutters told him that he had just seen pointy ears go to the smelly place. Being a town of but two half-elves, and the fact that Therogeon spent most of his days studying in his dungeon, Eddick surmised that Mr. Nutters was talking about Elric. As far as a smelly place, he looked around for any possibilities, for squirrels are quite sensitive to decay, and spotted the tavern almost immediately.

Box still in hand, he marched in the front door. There was a general clamor of greetings from the few that had come in this afternoon, who favored drink more than a hard day's work. Eddick did his best to be graceful with the situation, even though lazy people were amongst the top of his list of annoying things.

Spotting Elric, the druid went over to him and took a seat at his table. "Good afternoon, friend. I hope your stomach is faring better than mine did the day before my wedding."

She stood in the doorway for a few moments after Eddick left. Ashara hoped she hadn't offended the noble druid by asking him to play courier, but she wanted it to be him delivering the gift. She had no idea how Elric was doing. If he was nervous or needing advice about anything, Eddick would be the one for him to talk to. He'd been there before.

With a deep sigh, she ran her fingers through her braid-free hair before heading down the stairs into the maelstrom. It was bad enough not having seen Elric since yesterday morning, but knowing he was just a short walk away while she was stuck in this house was maddening! At least she'd be able to get out to the temple of Chauntea for a bit. If she just happened to run into him along the way, so much the better!

Mrs. Belton was with Arryn in the kitchen, while Mrs. Fenkeep and Mrs. Springtill from the neighboring farms were running from outside to in as her mother and she suspected Gwilly, were directing. She hadn't seen the pixie yet, though that hardly meant she wasn't floating right next to her at that moment! Hopefully she'd get to see her little friend at some point today.

Ashara snatched up her winter cloak and threw it over her shoulders on the way out the door. Before she was able to reach for the latch, her mother had somehow managed to step in front of her. She glanced over to where she had just seen Arryn standing, half expecting that she had perhaps found a way to clone herself to get everything done today.

"And jest where do ye think yer goin' then?" Mrs. Rosemorn folded her arms in front of her and raised a suspicious eyebrow.

"I was... I need to go to the temple to work on Elric's crown," she stuttered, still taken aback by the woman's speed.

"And what if he's there workin' on yers?"

"Well..." Ashara started to flush under the scrutiny. "Then I guess I'll get a chance to say hello..."

"HA! Hardly! If ye run into that boy, ye know as well as I that I'll not be seeing ye again 'til this evenin', and there's THINGS t' do!" Arryn was getting worked up again, and when she got worked up she began gesturing wildly with her hands. Rather like Gwilly, now that she thought of it... "Nope, ye'll be stayin' put. We'll get ye anythin' ye think ye'll be needin'."

"So I'm to be a prisoner then." The priestess stated with amusement, folding her arms in front of her and arching an eyebrow as her mother had just done.

"Aye, ye are."

Ashara laughed aloud at the woman's matter-of-fact tone. "Perhaps I'll just have to escape! I have my ways, you know..."

"Aye, ye could prolly just go out your window, climb onto the roof and shimmy down the oak tree like ye use t', but ye won't. Not this time." Arryn yawned a bit pretending to already tire of the conversation.

Her eyes widened at that. She'd been so sure of her sneakiness when she was younger... "And why won't I, exactly?!"

"'Cause it's in both o' our best interests that ye jest do as yer told! I ain't afraid o' yer wrath, Ashes. Yer all bluster! Gwilly on th'other hand..." Mrs. Rosemorn lifted her hand, drawing her thumb across her throat dramatically. "I ain't riskin' it! And neither are ye! If I find ye gone, I'll send her after ye, don't ye be doubtin'!"

Ashara laughed and raised her hands in defeat as she backed off a few steps. "Okay, I give! I really do need to get started on that crown though..."

Mrs. Rosemorn smiled warmly at her daughter and stepped in to wrap her in a hug. When she pulled away, Ashara noticed her discreetly trying to wipe a tear from her eye.

"Momma..."

"No, don't ye even say it! I've no time become a blubberin' idiot! Now git into the kitchen an see that ye choke down some o' that vegetable stew. It's prolly overdone now, since I ain't been payin' much attention, but it should be hot. All nerves n' no food is a sure recipe for a bride passin' out at the altar! Don't think I ain't see it b'fore!"

Ashara smiled softly and walked begrudgingly into the kitchen. Mrs. Springtill came over to find out exactly what she wanted for the crown, then headed off out the door to get the order filled.

As she sat down at the table and began eating the always perfect stew, the young woman reluctantly had to concede that having something in her belly was calming the butterflies a bit.

Elric was glad he'd left the house. If he hadn't, he never would have had this opportunity to speak with Ashara's father this way. Ever since midwinter when he had relived so many of Ashara's and his own memories, he saw the two Rosemorn's in a different light. They were more than just his friends parents, or even his future in-laws. He knew now they had cared for him for years, but for the last couple... It seemed whenever Ebbard talked to him, there was an undercurrent. As if he were simply a 'bad influence' who was leading his daughter away toward danger... and then a potential suitor who he wasn't sure could be trusted with his daughter. It was intimidating for the half-elf.

Today was different. Ebbard had dropped the wall, or at least lowered it a bit. Today they were just two men who both loved his daughter. It was very liberating.

"So, 'ave ye decided what yer wearin' yet?" Ebbard asked out of the blue.

"Hmm? Oh.... I don't know. I've got some pretty nice things that haven't been completely ruined from the road..." Elric thought for a moment and added "or were stolen from evil priests!" The purple things he'd looted from the slime temple in waterdeep were probably the nicest things he had... but he'd never entertained the thought of wearing them to his wedding. Totally inappropriate! "Honestly, I've had so much on my mind, that I haven't really thought about it." He exaggerated a sigh and said. "One more thing on my list I suppose."

Ebbard just watched him go on, eyebrows raising slightly at the mention of stolen clothes. He hadn't heard that story yet. Odds are there were lots of stories from the road he hadn't heard. Thinking of the troubled nights Arryn and he had when Ashara first left on her adventures... He had a feeling he was glad of it.

Reaching behind him he pulled out a package and set in front of the half-elf. "Well, ye can scratch off that one if ye want. Arryn didn't know if you had anything, so she had Mrs. Blacklace whip this up. I was meant to give it to ye."

Elric just looked in shock. He didn't know what to say. Slowly he opened the package and found a crimson doublet. It was magnificent. Opal was certainly a master at her craft. As he opened it up a little more, a smile spread across his face. On the front of the doublet in gold stitching was their symbol. The Champion's sun over Impresk Lake.

"You shouldn't have... I mean.... I can't accept this!" Elric stammered out. He wasn't sure what the going rates were in Impresk, but something like this in Waterdeep would have cost hundreds of gold. Triple that in Calimport. The Rosemorn's didn't have that kind of money.

"Pshh... Ye can, and Ye Will!" Ebbard responded in tone that left no debate. "Tradition dictates that ye'r family would help ye out at a time like this. Well, I promised yer pa that we'd take care of ye, and to my mind we've done a pretty poor job a that!" The proud man's voice started to crack, but he quickly regained his composure. "Now, ye turned out just fine, but it wasn't any of our doin' so Ye'll let us do what little we can! Ye got it?"

Elric could only nod in stunned silence. He didn't know what else to do. He could only imagine that it had set them back quite a bit, but as he looked at the determined look in Mr. Rosemorn's face, he knew that if he refused it would only hurt the man's pride. A hit to man's pride takes longer to restore than one to his money pouch.

"Thank you. Thank you very much. It's amazing..." A nervous look passed across his face. "I hope it fits..."

Ebbard was pleased that the half-elf wasn't going to debate the matter. And took extra pleasure from the look of honest wonder that Elric couldn't hide. The man just started laughing. "Don't ye be worrin' 'bout that. My wife's got her the habit of measurin' up all the young men who get too near her Ashes."

"It'll fit!" he said with a wink. They both settled down to good laugh. He didn't hear the druid enter or the friendly crowd greeting him.

"Good afternoon, friend. I hope your stomach is faring better than mine did the day before my wedding."

Elric looked up from the doublet and saw his friend sitting down at the table. Carefully he wrapped the doublet back up and gently set it safe to the side. Smiling he answered the druid.

"I'm not sure what your's was like, but I feel like I've got butterflies. Pixie-sized butterflies that only seem to get bigger and more active the more they're mentioned!" He laughed a bit at that. "It's very... distracting!"

The druid was carryin a large box that Elric hadn't seen before. It seemed out of place for the man. Not wanting to completely monopolize the conversation, he weakly tried to change the subject. "So how's the day treating you?"

"I am quite busy today. I must make sure everything is set for tomorrow so that you can focus on her." The druid smiled nostalgically. For a moment he was quiet, as he thought of his own wedding, the weddings of his own children, and other days of bliss. When he realized that he had kind of gotten that far away look in his eyes and was not really focusing, he chastised himself, and refocused on the topic at hand.

"Might we take a walk together?" Eddick led Elric out of the tavern and out into the town. The snow crunched beneath their feet as they went. Eddick simply wanted to make this a more private moment, due to the fact that Ashara was so nervous and excited about this present. The druid had no idea what it was, but he knew that it was important enough that it should not be presented in a grand style in public.

When he had reached a suitable distance from listening ears and prying eyes, he began his slightly prepared speech. "One of the many things that is required of me today is that I give you this" he said, indicating the box with a movement of his shoulder and head. "She was anxious to give it to you today, but has been prevented from doing so by well wishers. So I am to present it to you as a token of her love and affection."

With that he took the box from his shoulder and held it out in front of him, offering it to Elric.

“Ohhh I see...” Elric joked. “I’m barred from going over there, but you get to come and go as you will!” The half-elf exaggerated a sigh. He grinned at the druid. “Actually, since the subject has been brought up... I was wondering if you could do me a favor as well?”

He rummaged into his cloak and pulled out a small package about the size of his palm with a note attached. He looked sheepishly at Eddick. “I wanted to give her this myself, but between her father and Gwilly’s warnings... I don’t think that’s an option today.” As they traded packages, he looked at the gift his friend had brought him with an added touch of sadness. “Apparently she came to the same conclusion.”

Elric took the black case with mounting curiosity. He had no idea what it could be, but even the case seemed of high quality. He walked to a nearby stump and sat with the case across his knees. Gently he ran his hands over the smooth leather till he found the three brass clasps and unhooked them.

The first thing he noticed was the longsword. It was amazing looking. Based on the tree motif, he assumed it was elven in origin. The sword was 42" from pommel to tip, and the blade had a slight leaf shape to it. The blade itself was razor sharp. The hilt was crafted to form a great golden tree, with the grip being the trunk. The roots of the tree seemed to be drinking from the large blue stone, the size of a small egg. He hadn’t seen one himself personally, but the half-elf suspected that a stone that size and color, could only be a moonstone! A stone that symbolized the moon elf people of whom his mother belonged, and was reputed to be a major tool in powerful elven magic!

The low branches of the golden tree extended outward for the cross guard. Other branches fanned out upward, the highest of which reach back inward, entwining around the blade, as if the tree itself were trying to wield the weapon. As he examined it closer he noticed the tiny budding leaves on the tree were in reality tiny emeralds reflecting the light.

The sword was not alone. Inside the case there was scabbard of equal craftsmanship. It appeared for all the world as if it were made from fresh green leaves. Only after running his hands over it did he realize it was in fact leather. Very thin, very fine leather overlapping to form the scabbard.

It was the most beautiful weapon he’d ever seen. Still the gift confused him. “A sword? I don’t understand, I have an enchanted one that’s been doing quite admirably...” Then he saw the note attached. As he read the words his betrothed had written him he was glad he was already sitting. His eyes went wide and his mouth just hung open!

A'maelamin,

This sword is the end result of the secret I've been keeping from you for the last few days! My intention was to give you a precious piece of your history, but I could never have expected that such a thing could also become a part of our future! There are two parts to this gift...

Firstly, this is your father's sword! It's the one he received after the three companions saved the village from the dragon. It took me a bit of hunting and some investigation, but I found that it had been sold to a collector of fine weapons in Caradoon, who had recently fallen on difficult times, and was willing to part with the blade for very reasonable price. I had it taken to a weaponsmith to appraise, but he could tell me only that it is of elven make, and created with such skill that the man himself had no issue admitting that such crafting was completely beyond him or anything he'd seen before.

Now for the second part! The sword itself is not magical. Yet... But, it is of amazing quality, and I would like to imbue it with some abilities that we might choose together. Elric, my hope is that this could become an ancestral blade, handed down to our children and to our childrens' children, for as long as the House of Everdawn exists.
I simply could not wait to get this gift to you. I know that your father would have been so proud to see all that you've become, and though he cannot be here with you on this day, I believe he would have wanted you to have this.

Sut amin milya i'ento anoron, Melamin, iire amin nauva yanwe yaseen lle ten ilya en' coiamin!

Tenna' i'anoron,
Ashara

He couldn’t breath. “She found it! How... Where... HOW?!?” His mind was a whirlwind. It wasn’t clear if he was speaking to the druid, himself or the heavens. As he pulled it from the case and held it in his hands he could feel his eyes start to moisten.

This was the very sword that Arturo had sold... His father’s sword! As he wrapped his hand around the golden tree he couldn’t help but picture his father’s hand there too. It was comforting somehow...

An heirloom from his father that they would pass to the future generations of the family they were starting tomorrow.

"Ohh Ashara... Thank you..." the druid heard him whisper.

Time felt as if it had come to a complete standstill. While she waited, Ashara had been doing little more than puttering around the kitchen since she wasn't allowed to do anything that might spoil any surprises in store for tomorrow. With her hands idle, her mind began to wander and the butterflies returned... She had just begun needlessly pruning her mother's rosemary plant when Mrs. Springtill walked into the house with her arms full of flowers.

"Thank you!" Ashara exclaimed a bit too loudly, and rushed over to unload the woman's burden.

Carrying the flowers up to her room, she spread them out on her desk before shutting the door for a little solitude. She sat and pushed a lock of hair back over her ear, smiling as she inhaled the sweet fragrances of lavender and alyssum. Borrowed memories were reawakened, of playing in the fields and foothills as Arturo would graze his sheep among the wildflowers. Lavender grew in great patches north of Impresk, and from her own memories, she remembered many evenings when she, Elric and Therogeon would sit in the old house and tell stories of their lives over mugs of lavender tea.

Arryn Rosemorn, though not as knowledgeable in the healing properties of herbs as her daughter, knew everything there was to know about cooking with them, preparing teas, and also the meanings associated with each type of flower. For Elric's crown, Ashara had chosen lavender to represent her devotion to the man who was to become her husband, and yellow alyssum to express his incomparable worth.

She worked happily, weaving the long stems of the lavender together to form a thin wreath before setting the tiny yellow flowers in between the purple spikes. It was more difficult than she had anticipated. The first crown created was far too small, so she set it aside and began a second, which ended up with some broken stems, so that one was discarded as well. Frustrated, she pulled her hair behind her, twisting it into the first wreath to keep it out of her face while she worked.

This might take much longer than she expected...

Eddick wanted to give his friend the privacy that such a gift would requre, but at the emotional response from Elric, he realized that he might be needed still. It was a sword, elven make, exceptional in quality and beauty. Since Elric needed to learn to use a sword in Waterdeep when they went there the first time, because fists do not work well against demons and such, Eddick knew that this was not his sword. Due to the make, it seemed as if Ashara had unearthed a link to his parentage, perhaps his elven mother that he ran away from home to find.

There was a note that he was reading, but the old druid's eyes were poor from too much squinting in the sun to read at such a distance. As he heard Elric whisper his thanks, he heard the weight in his voice. A moment as sacred as this, she should have been here for, not him. But he could see why she wanted to get this to him as soon as possible.

"That is truly an amazing gift," Eddick said, not letting on exactly on that he was clueless to what the note had said. "She was sorry couldn't be here for this, but sent me in her stead. If there is anything I can do for you, just let me know."

Lost in his reflection on the blade, the half-elf barely heard the druid. Slowly some of the words made their way through the fog. "I wish it was her here too..." Elric said quietly.

Suddenly realizing what he said he shook his head and came back to the present. Quickly standing up and sheathing the magnificent blade he sheepishly apologized. "I'm sorry my friend... I didn't mean.. You know..." He took a few deep breaths and tried to calm himself.

"Thank you for everything Eddick. For all of it. The wedding service, the delivery services, everything... You truly have gone above and beyond the call of duty."

"If you could tell her how much I appreciate this... and give her my gift, I'd be extremely grateful." He thought about the gift he had given the druid for Ashara. Compared to this it seemed so small and insignificent. Still his mind hadn't changed... he wished it was more, but it would have to do.

He realized that the druid was probably in the dark about what just happened. He hadn't said anything about the sword and he was fairly certain that Ashara wouldn't have mentioned it to him... Fairly certain anyways.

He unsheathed the sword again and showed it to his friend. "It's my father's sword Eddick. I don't know how she did it, but she actually found it."

"We recently discovered that he was more than a shepherd, that he was an adventurer like us... He had retired before I was born, but we've tracked down a few clues about his early life. Ashara found the sword he recieved after saving a town from a dragon."

He rememberd who he was talking to and a smile just grew across his face. "It's a piece of my history and our future. Something we will hand down to all the future Everdawns. It'll remind them who they are, and where they came from. Like the name Eddick."

Eddick listened attentively. Stories of the past were his department, and he drank in the history like water on a hot day. The truth of his heritage and the proof that was here resonated in his soul. It had been over six years since Eddick had been home, and now he was feeling for the first time, a touch of homesickness. He longed to see the lone spire of Silverthorn Keep, he wanted to see the apple tree that stood as the marker for Maira's grave. He had already resigned himself to going back to gain a present for the couple, but now, he actually wanted to go.

He gazed at the sword as his eyes began to water. The sword was even more magnificent the closer you got to it. Part of it's effectiveness was the fact that it was so beautiful, it would distract its opponent as it flashed through the air. It was definitely something to be handed down each generation.

After the moment passed, he answered his friend. "You are more than welcome, Elric. I have been around too long to think transportation of highly regarded relics beneath me," he smiled. "I will take your gift to her, provided that you do not think of this as a competition. You are to be wed, you will cease to be two and you will be one. So if one wins and one loses, you are divided. I won't stand for it, and you should not either."

"But, as I suspect, you planned to give me a gift to take to her before you found out that she was giving you one. In which case the gift was not conceived as a counter, but out of the joy in your heart to give a present. Then it is pure. It is good to allow people to have the honor of giving you a gift. Especially people close to you."

Eddick placed his hand on Elric's well muscled shoulder. "Now, let me give you a few pointers on weaving." The fact that Elric had not finished his crown for Ashara did not escape him, in fact it was written all over his face. Not to mention that Elric was not known for his patience, which was absolutely necessary to weaving difficult items like rose stems. "I know a few tricks that will get you done in no time."

"No, not a competition." Elric laughed. "Just something... something I'd like her to have today..." He was finding it increasingly more difficult to not simply snatch her gift back and rush over there himself. Regardless of pixie vengence.

Eddick's mention of the crown caused him to focus on the present. His voice took on an annoyed tone. "I appreciate that Eddick... I'll admit that so far, the crown seems to be beating me." He looked back toward the house where all the materials were. He really needed to get back to work.

"This is something that I want to do on my own..." He thought he saw the druids shoulders slump a bit. It may have been his imagination. "Still... Perhaps some advice on the matter wouldn't be breaking any rules..."

He listened as the druid explained the fine points of plant manipulation. Much of it he had already heard from the priests of Chaunteau, but Eddick did have a few insights that were unique to the druid that would certainly aid him.

The ideas and images were forming in his head, and suddenly he was getting excited about the crown again. This time he would beat it! Thinking about his room back in the house, made him realize just how cold it acutally was outside. Pulling his cloak together to ward of the wind, he started putting the sword away, and retrieving the package with his doublet.

"Thank you Eddick. I'm going to go put your advice to the test. Will you be around this evening? Or will I not see you till tomorrow either?"

Eddick watched as Elric struggled with going over there, and he chuckled. "Don't worry my friend. Anyone who comes between the two of you after tomorrow you have every right to punch."

"And I do not think I will be around tonight, I have one last errand to run. After I take this to your bride-to-be of course. I have a present to go fetch you for tomorrow. I have just as much of a right to shower each of youwith gifts as anyone else. The old man grinned.

"By your leave young sir, I will attend to the rest of my duties for the day. I will be back well before dawn for a quick snooze before the big sunrise! I am so excited for you two!

"Well, I'm off to see your bride. There's no stopping me. If you want me to tell her something, you will have to yell it at me as I walk away." The druid turned to leave, setting off at a quick pace back to the Rosemorn's house.

Elric laughed heartily as the druid trotted off. He wasn't used to seeing Eddick so... Giddy. After everything they'd been through it was amazing that any of them had so much joy left. Was there anything he wanted to tell Ashara? Definitely... Through Eddick... Not so much.

Gathering his new belongings in his arms, the half-elf headed back home. He had an image in his mind now of Ashara's crown, and he wanted to get started before he lost it.

When he arrived the house was just as he'd left it. Empty. He hoped Therogeon and Kaber were okay. The minotaur had insisted on staying in Calimport, and Therogeon was supposed to retrieve him today. Kaber seemed pretty curious about the wedding, so Elric had no doubt he'd be there... Still it was a very empty house.

Ahh well, the fewer distractions the better! Returning to his room he unwrapped his Doublet and placed it on a chair so he could get a fuller view of it. Truly magnificent. on a whim he fitted his new sword belt around it, and stepped back. Even better!

Sitting on his bed he pulled the endtable a little closer and got back to work. This time the crown would be perfect!

Eddick strode up the walk at the Rosemorns with purpose. There were many things yet to do today. The sun was already decending and Eddick had to travel half way across Faerun. A journey that he was finally looking forward to doing.

The old druid heard a fair bit of noise from the inside of the home as he approached. As he neared the door, he shouted "Incoming male!" and proceeded to barge in to whatever preparations they were doing for tomorow. Luckily for him, Gwilly and Mrs. Rosemorn were busy "discussing" the preparations, and he was able to slip by with a minimal beating.

As he made his way toward Ashara's room, he shifted the package to be underneath one arm, and knocked politely. The last thing he wanted to do was make Ashara more uncomfortable than she already was on a high stress day, so he kept his voice low, and without any urgency. "Ashara, my dear. It is Eddick. I would speak with you if you are ready to receive me."

She would never have asked Elric to teach her any curses in Elvish, but right now she felt that a few angry words might come in handy. The fifth faulty crown was thrown across the room, exploding in a shower of purple and yellow flowers as it hit the wall above her bed. It shouldn't have been that difficult. Ashara knew exactly what she wanted to do, but her trembling hands were just not cooperating.

Where was her focus!? Sure... in a bloody battle with a demigod, with her friends falling all around her, THEN she could focus, but when confronted with the SIMPLE TASK of creating a wreath of HARMLESS PLANTS... The stressed young woman took a breath. Then blew it out. She would NOT turn into her mother...

In truth the third crown she made had been nearly flawless, but she didn't think nearly flawless was good enough. Not for him. Ashara lifted her eyes from her work to glance out the window. There was plenty of snow of course, and in the distance she could see the tiny forms of a few people milling about in the center of town. Looked the same as it had fifteen seconds ago.

It wasn't fear that was fraying her nerves. The past two years had taught her what fear truly was. This was anticipation...

A knock at the door had her on her feet even before the voice was able to follow it.

"Ashara, my dear. It is Eddick. I would speak with you if you are ready to receive me."

In a flurry of motion, Ashara flung open the door, pulled the druid inside by the hand, slammed the door shut and somewhat gently, pushed him up against the wall.

"Did he open the gift!?" The priestess' wild, excited eyes searched Eddick's light green ones for answers. "Was he surprised? I hope he wasn't upset that I went to search for it myself! Did he like it? Is he doing okay? Not having second thoughts I hope... What did you think of the sword? I can't WAIT to see his face! Wait, YOU saw his face! What was his reaction?"

Ashara shut her eyes a moment, stemming the questioning assault upon her friend. She took a breath. Then blew it out. She was becoming her mother...

"Eddick, I... I'm really sorry," she said taking a few steps back from him so he could collect himself. Chuckling, she pressed her fingers to her forehead and sighed loudly.

"Yes," she grinned awkwardly, evidently embarrassed by her behavior, "I'm ready to receive you..." Ashara folded her arms in front of her, hoping it would make her appear more calm, but mostly so the druid wouldn't see her hands trembling.

Eddick smiled genuinely when he saw Ashara's outburst, and laughed out loud when she tried to compose herself. He knew it was somewhat inappropriate to laugh at a bride before her wedding, but Eddick was hardly conventional anymore. He had faith that Ashara already knew how rediculous she was being, and so he felt pretty comfortable reacting naturally. As he gained his own composure, he noticed the broken flower crown on the floor, and suddenly he had a plan of action. He grabbed her by the hands and took her back to her workbench.

"I don't know what kind of instructions are going around, but I have to think the clergy of Chauntea is having a good laugh behind closed doors." He grabbed some of the material and began showing Ashara how to bend the flower stems, and which ones to pick for what purpose. "He was speechless concerning the gift, and frankly so was I. It was a perfect gift for a wedding. Something from the past, a look to the future, something that bound you together that will last for all time. It was amazing that you found it, that it was what it was, and that you can pass it on. The fact that you have put so much thought into the future has made me think about mine.

"I am going home to get your present for tomorrow, so I have to not spend very much time with you. But I will go back and catch up with my family after your wedding. I want to know what they have been doing, and how many more grandchildren I have, amongst other things." Eddick finished displaying the way these crowns should really be done, and then he undid it, and let the flowers fall to the table.

'There is yet one thing I need to do, and that is deliver his present to you." The old druid walked back over to the door and received the box that Elric had given him. 'I explained that he shouldnt try to compete with you, because, honestly, you won. But he still wanted to give you this, and I could not just do the one delivery and not do the other." He offered the gift in a much more grandiose fashion that betrayed his noble background although he still looked like a humble druid to the untrained eye.

"Please do open it, I am sure that my curiosity does not exceed yours, but it is still quite substantive."

Ashara watched as Eddick deftly wove the flowers together. His soothing voice calmed the butterflies and she found herself breathing normally again. Listening to him speak of going back to visit his family brought a bright smile to her face. She was so glad for him! So happy that he would choose to reconnect with his family after so many years apart! She understood his reasons for leaving, and his hunger to explore the great world of nature beyond Silverthorne Keep, but from her perspective, she knew that if he had been her father...that she would miss him terribly.

When the druid finished, his completed crown looked as if it had simply grown from the earth in that shape, the flowers twisting around each other gracefully, in a never-ending dance. Then...he pulled it apart... The priestess sighed as the perfection fell to pieces. She may not ever be able to replicate such a thing, but at the very least she'd picked up a few pointers.

"There is yet one thing I need to do, and that is deliver his present to you. I explained that he shouldn't try to compete with you, because, honestly, you won. But he still wanted to give you this, and I could not just do the one delivery and not do the other."

Ashara carefully took the small package into her hand, while a look of confusion furrowed her brow. "Compete with me?" She asked, quizzically, as she pulled the note from under the string that had secured it to the box. "You're right when you say that I've won, though I think we disagree on the contest. The greatest gift he could ever give me is the one I will receive at dawn tomorrow. Nothing I've done or will do in my life could make me deserving of him, so in that sense, yes, I've won. I don't think he'll ever understand that, but I must say I look forward to trying to educate him!"

It always amazed her how frankly she could speak with Eddick. He possessed the seemingly opposed qualities of being immensely powerful yet unassuming at the same time, and she had come to greatly respect his wisdom even though they didn't always see eye to eye.

Her own eyes sparkled and a thoughtful grin pulled at the corners of her mouth when she opened the note revealing the elvish script. Fingers traced gently over the graceful letters. Reading and writing the elven language was still somewhat difficult for Ashara, though she had gotten quite good at verbal comprehension thanks to the patience of her instructor.

Melamin,

Eller naa ikotane sai amin merna onuva lle, nan’coiasira ilnae mellonamin. Ta aa’naa amin uuma nowa hae faarea tul’re... Lle sinta amin nae n’uma curu ten’templa, ikotane onaramin neeka n’ner ento a’ i’aglareb nat’ lle nae one amin yana. Sut oio, re’na amin uuma tula tuulo’ i’Seldarine, ron uma tula tuulo’ i’corm.

Iire amin caele yeste’ nowe sina, Amin nause ten’lle re en’nosta. Sut oio ta naava quanta amin corm yassen alasse’ manka lle nauva sana ta sii’. Amin caele kole tanya ondo tuulo’ i’re amin utue ta no'lye yeste’ lema a’ hith tai’ nost. Vee quel marth mir amin intya. Ta ume ta kurwa eithel. Amin caele nae marthen san’ ai’edan caela i’forya a’na.

Sii’ amin naaya ve’ lle a’caela ta. Amin Yeste’ harma one a’amin quelinin harma.

Melalle ten’ coia,

Elric

She read it slowly and carefully, saying the words aloud to give her ears the chance to do some of the deciphering instead of her eyes.

My love,

There is so much I want to give you, but time has not been my friend. It may be I don’t plan far enough ahead... You know I have no talent for magic, so my gifts seem inferior next to the wondrous things you have already given me. However while mine do not come from the gods, they do come from the heart.　
　
When I had first planned this, it was intended for your birthday. However it would fill my heart with joy if you would accept it now. I’ve carried that stone since I found it on our first adventure in Mistletoe Keep. As a good luck charm perhaps. It’s done its job well. I’ve been luckier than any man has a right to be.

Now I would like you to have it. My first treasure given to my greatest treasure.

Your Love for Life.

Elric

Tears spilled unabashedly down her cheeks as she finished the note, and her hands began trembling again before lifting the top off the little box. Within lay a small onyx gem, banded with white. The stone itself seemed worn, though it had been newly set onto a simple silver chain. How could he ever think such a gift inferior? Ashara could barely see through her tear-filled eyes as she fastened the chain around her neck. The stone rested higher on her chest, just above the medallion he knew she would always wear. Elric would never have wanted his gift to interfere with that part of her...

A great ache encompassed her heart, and she so wished he could have been there at that moment. "By Lathander...," she gasped, choking on her tears. "How I love that man!"

After a few moments she was able to collect herself, and the priestess' red eyes turned to regard her aged companion. "I know you have a great deal yet to do today, and thank you so much, Eddick! For exchanging these gifts, and also for tomorrow morning. I'm so happy you agreed to perform the ceremony! There is no one else I'd rather have doing this for us." Both of her hands grasped one of his, and she kissed the back of it gently before patting it and smiling up at him. "Thank you, my friend..."

"You're right when you say that I've won, though I think we disagree on the contest. The greatest gift he could ever give me is the one I will receive at dawn tomorrow. Nothing I've done or will do in my life could make me deserving of him, so in that sense, yes, I've won. I don't think he'll ever understand that, but I must say I look forward to trying to educate him!"

Eddick smiled as he listened to her profess her love. "He feels the same way, of that I am certain." It was nice that these wonderful young people felt so absolutely right about this. They had already ceased to be individuals, and were not one in spirit. It really was amazing to him. It had taken years for him and his wife to reach the level these were. Maybe it was because they started later with a little more wisdom.

Eddick listened as she turned her attention to the gift and note from Elric. He was grateful when she translated the note from him. He had only had remedial teaching concerning elvish when he was younger. They did very little trade with elves, so it was not high on his list of priorities. Now all he remembered was how to count to ten and the phrase "Sarpsa Tyara Kumbaamin Nwaly". Although he could not remember what it meant, and it was probably just juvenile enough to not ask anyone who knew Elvish, although Gwilly was learning, and he might ask her.

The gift was beautiful, and fit perfectly in the place below her chin and above her medallion. Once again, Eddick felt an old familiar ache. When a sufficient moment had passed, and she was pressing his hand in thanks, he pulled her into a quick embrace. "I wish the greatest of blessings on you and your children." He released her and bowed slightly to her. Then took his leave.

There was still much to do.

Perfect.

Even with Eddick’s tricks the wreath hadn’t come easy. Three more attempts had come and gone, but there was always something that he didn’t like about them. Something just… not right.

He blamed his hands. He wasn’t a farmer nor was he a druid. He was a fighter. It may not be his favorite part of who he was, but the half-elf couldn’t deny that’s what he was. Hands that were more accustomed to breaking stone had no business weaving flowers. That wasn’t the truth of the matter though. Playing his music had kept his hands fairly dexterous and there wasn’t any reason they wouldn’t be up to the task at hand. Whether anxiety, anticipation or excitement… he had a hard time keeping his hands steady.

But now he was finished. As he gazed upon the completed crown he tried to find something that was wrong. Something he didn’t like. After examining it from every angle, he couldn’t help but grin in glee.

The crown was formed from roses of various colors, though Pinks and reds made the majority of it, Color from the crocuses were in just the right places. Then there was the highlight. Elric had more than a few precious gems left to his horde. He laughed aloud as he remembered sleeping on the pile of money and gems. Worst night of his life. Well.. It was high on the list. But at least he could say that he’d done it!

He held the crown toward the light and watched it sparkle. There weren’t many, but he had found a few gems small enough to be attached to the stems, yet discrete enough that they didn’t distract from the natural beauty of the flowers. If he had done it correctly, the way he saw it in his mind… Once the dawn came over the horizon, the light should hit at just the right angle, and make Ashara simply shine.

Gently he placed the crown back on the table. It had taken what seemed like forever, but this was what he’d pictured. He was a little in awe when he looked at what he’d done with his own two hands. He understood now why it was tradition for the couple to do this themselves. He had put a part of his heart and soul into creating this for Ashara.

Ashara…

The thought of her filled him with longing again. He looked over at the sword she’d found and his mind whirled with questions. He wanted nothing more than to run right over there and see her.

Why shouldn’t he? Certainly there couldn’t be any harm in just a quick visit… He looked outside his window into the darkness. How long had it been since he’d left Eddick? An hour? Two? The sun set early in the winter, and they had a big day tomorrow, but it was still early…

With a mischievous glint in his eye he made his decision. Kicking past the many ruined crowns that had come before, he couldn’t help but chuckle. This room was going to smell like roses for days. He was fine with that. Grabbing his cloak, he headed back into the cold.

As he crossed the quiet town a plan started to formulate in his mind. He’d been warned by Gwilly, not to be hanging about getting in the way, but he didn’t particularly care anymore. The half-elf had braved dragon lairs and wizard towers, he wouldn’t be detoured by a pixie!

Still, he knew she was working hard on her surprises… whatever they may be. While curious, he didn’t really want to see her plans right now anyway. That’s not what he wanted to see. Regardless, it would probably be for the best if he could avoid antagonizing them. Quietly approaching the house he heard a commotion from what sounded like a half dozen women coming from inside.

How many were involved with this?!? Elric was dumbfounded. He realized he didn’t have a clue what was going on over here, and tried to repress a grin as he pictured Ebbard being chased out of the house. Fortune smiled on him. The one voice he did not hear was Ashara’s! That meant that either the women weren’t letting her get a word in edgewise, or she wasn’t with them! Or Gwilly had hit her with a sleep arrow… He supposed that was always a possibility

Sure enough, he saw the light on upstairs. That must be where she was. Quietly making his way around the house he found a familiar oak tree. Smaller than he remembered, it only took him three good handholds to slip onto the roof. Not knowing if she was alone, he listened for a few moments.

Not hearing anything, he gently rapped the window a few times.