Remnants of the Earth
AEDOLIS => Haviah => Topic started by: SilverLuna on August 09, 2015, 11:13:09 pm
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The door of a luxery three story apartment opened. It used to be three seperated ones but three above one another had been bought and adjusted so it was three floors. They had purchased a part of the surrounding ground too that was attached to their room and had been turned into a flawless garden. The Khasuul's were rich merchants. In money anyway.
Farren and Emily entered the well and warmly lit place and were greeted by a few servants. ''Please prepare a good meal for the lady and something nice and warm to drink.'' Farren said to the servants who nodded. Even though Emily's parents were not home they did not dare to play with the girl. Fearing for their job. ''It is alright I am not hungry.'' she took a hold of her suitcase and started to drag it to her toom. Which was not easy since the thing was bigger then herself.
''I will go to my room and sleep. I want to be alone'' she bowed politely but before she could proceed Farren helped Emily with her suitcase to the elevator to the third floor where her room was.
Her room was large, clean and neat. With a big bed that had curtains and silken sheets. Her dolls were neatly organised on a shelf and on the other side was a desk with beside it a large book case that had many different kinds of books. About the art of trade, identifying rare goods amongst cheap ripoffs. On the lowest plank were a few fairy taile books. ''Thank you Farren. D-dismissed...'' she whispered. She felt like she could cry and she did not like ordering them around.
Farren nodded and left the room, and Emily all by herself.
She went to the window and opened it. The air was cool but rather then the garden or the city, she looked up. The stars were barely visable with all the light abd she folded her trembling little hands. She prayed again. She did so almost every day. Not to a single God but the stars.
''Please sweet stars in the sky. Can you listen to my prayer? Just listening is enough. That is more my parents already do.'' she started. The first tears falling over her cheeks. ''If any of you have the time though. Can you please say hi? I... I need someone who...'' the knot in her throat became to tight though to say it. ''Please let my mommy and daddy come home safe.'' she spoke a few names of stars she had once read or heard about in stories. Evadne was one of those names. ''I wish you all a good night and.. and that your radiance will inspire many.''
Emily rarely asked anything for herself. Not because she got what any girl wanted. Emily only needed to smile at a toy and she would get it. But everything she did ask for. The simple things, were never given.
She started to unpack her suitcase and returned her clothes to the wardrope. In the end she did not need these at all. Being sent back the afternoon the following they they had even arrived.
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In another city garden not too far away from the three story home where the little girl lived, Evadne became aware of her name being whispered, in the same voice as before. The little girl was praying again, wishing upon the stars for any who would listen. The celestial bodies of fire would always listen, and they too felt the sorrow of the young mortal. Evadne heard not only her name being called, but a few of her kindred as well. Most of whom in fact could do nothing more than listen to the pleas of a lonely child. Evadne however in her human-like form, could do more though. That was the whole reason she was here now.
Getting up, she once more let the voice be her guide and followed it to its source. Soon, the Star was standing by the base of the house, observing what she could. Blinds covered many of the windows of the dwelling, except for one that was. At the very top, a window stood open, the cool air from outside blowing into the room beyond. It was there the voice had come from, Evadne was certain of it.
Sitting down on a nearby bench, she made to speak to the girl in her own special way, the language of the Stars themselves. Directing her thoughts upward, she channeled a bit of Star-Song into her speech, a surefire way to let the girl know she had been heard and to uplift her as well. "Greetings young one. Your prayer has been heard. Look out your window and below, I am here. Evadne is my name. You are not alone."
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Emily heard the voice although was not sure where it came from at first. She placed the dress in her hands on the bed and walked to the window. She spotted Evadne and smiled. She recognised her as the woman who returned pricess Sophie to her.
She spoke the word that had crossed her head when her doll got returned. ''Pretty..'' she said softly and waved with a smile. She could feel a strange kind of warmth but also more tears building up in her eyes. ''I... I will open the door.'' she said.
She wanted to let the woman or rather said star in. Not doing so would be rude right? She got away from the window and rushed downstairs. Breaking already the rule that ladies were never permitted to run. Rather then the elavator she this time took the stairs and when on the lowest floor, after of course passing one of the servants on her way down.
Out of breath from both running and exitement, the girl reached the door and opened it. Her prayer was heard. It was actually heard. Actually knowing someone listened already had made her feel happier.
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When the door to the three-story house opened, Evadne stood up then and walked over to it and the girl who stood there, an excited look upon her face, as well as the remnants of a few tears. It was obvious that the little girl had been crying not too long ago.
The Star greeted the girl in her own tongue, one that would be heard from within as well as without in its own radiant way. "Greetings to you. Might I know your name, little one?"
The aura around Evadne glowed in a warm whitish light, of both peace and comfort, as well as having a certain timelessness about it. It would definitely make anyone within her presence feel a sense of belonging and tranquility.
Evadne waited to be let inside, plus she didn't wish to alarm one of the servants who happened to be staring straight at her in bewilderment some feet away, if not even a slight wariness. However the pure strength of the Star's aura may simply have the effect of washing away any discomfort like waves on a beach would. If he did feel discomfort, it would only be for a fleeting temporary moment of time.
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''My name is Emily..'' she started before Farren made his way to her too. ''Young lady Emily, you know yiu are prohibited from running in the house and open the door there can be dangerous people outside...'' he started and joined her.
''But Farren... she is a star! An actual star!'' The girl saud enthousiasticly.
''A star? I do not remember a celebrity having an appointment..'' the man spoke before he looked at Evadne more clearly.
''Oh my..'' he spoje siftly and cleared his throat before stepping aside. ''My apologies mi-lady please come in.''
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Bowing her head politely, Evadne answered the man. "It is quite alright, sir. I understand completely." switching back to the common tongue.
Stepping inside, she extended her hand to Farren as she had seen many mortals of many worlds do in way of greeting someone. "My name is Evadne and I hail from far away. I am a traveler of a sort, aiming to see what I can and to help where I can." Evadne smiled reassuringly, wanting to ensure these good people she meant them no harm. Her aura shifted as a result, shining brighter as well. For indeed a piece of the very heavens themselves had come down to the earth, the Flameling wanting nothing more than to be of whatever aid she could.
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Farren was usually not the person in the household to shake hands but me made an exception. ''This way please.'' he said. Some other servants had paused their work too. He lead Evadne to what seemed to be a small meeting room and gestured her and Emily to sit down. ''Can I get anything to drink or eat for you mi-lady?'' Farren asked.
Emily whom seemed exited and could actually express herself would be given warm milk to calm down again.
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Smiling comfortingly at all the servants they passed, Evadne sat down on a comfortable couch in the main meeting room of the house. At the offer of food or drink, she politely declined seeing as how Stars really didn't need to eat or drink. They could of course, but it wasn't necessary to their survival, seeing as they were far from being a normal mortal. "No thank you kind sir, I am more than alright."
She gazed at Emily then, smiling once more. "I really came to pay Emily here a visit. This might be difficult for most to comprehend, but where I'm from my kind tend to have a great understanding of what goes on in many a world."
Pausing for only a second, she went on. "I am what is called a Flameling. In other words, a star who has come down to earth. I have done so many times before over many eons." Evadne stopped right there, as too much more information than that would no doubt be overwhelming.
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''A flameling? Can not say I heard of it before but what does one of your kin look for here?'' Farren asked as he asked one of the maids to get the drink for Emily instead.
Most maids were curious about the unusual visitor as well and everyone wanted to take a peak.
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"There are many things on many worlds I would see. And not just from space. It is quite a different feeling altogether to look at all the life here up front and personally, rather than from my high vantage point in my home."
The being of light paused here, thinking. "It is not only this world I visit, but many. There is much freedom to be had in my current form, although it is quite a different type of freedom than in my natural form. For this visit however, I came to fulfill a wish." Evadne looked over to Emily as she said this.
"We stars hear many whispers, many pleas, prayers and blessings. It is due to one particular wish I heard that brings me to this world again, after so many Earth years. I aim to fulfill it as best I can."
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''A wish? So wishing on stars is a real thing? Not a children's story?'' Farren said and looked at Emily.''I understand the young lady wished for something. I will have to apolagise but I think unless her wish involved being taken away and raised elsewhere. Her mother and father are strict and most likely whatever wish their young lady has made, they will not allow it.'' Farren replied calmly. Emily just looked down. Farren was right. As long as she was here, her mother and father would not permit anything. She was homeschooled and barely actually felt the light of day
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Evadne smiled sadly. "Not even a wish to be loved and understood?" she asked him.
Surely her parents couldn't be that harsh, but from what Evadne had seen so far, it seemed they cared little for the happiness of their own child. It was unfortunate to be certain. But still the Star wasn't deterred, she came here for a reason after all and wishes were a pretty serious thing to come down to earth for. She would continue to try. Emily's health and happiness depended upon it.
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''They have her whole life set up for her already. Whom she will marry, how she will fullfill that role. A nanny got fired because she played with the young lady. All of us who work here are live in and if we play with the girl or would take her away somewhere we will have no place or means to look after her. They do not realise a girl her age does not need books about economics or how to trade. She needs to play outside. Get her dress dirty. Letting you in already makes me risk my job. All of our jobs to be precise.'' Farren admitted.
A maid brought in a cup with piping hot milk for the girl. ''If it is not to bold to say...'' the maid said before covering the girl's ears with her hands so she would not hear what she was about to say. ''The Master was a kind man and usually not so strict. He changed when his wife died in labor. Raising her alone and earning enough seemed impossible so he wedded a new woman. She does not care about Emily at all. But the Master. He is still in pain over the loss of his wife and did not want to get attached to the girl. The best place for Emily is to grow up away from here. Maybe another planet even where she can discover herself rather then being locked in her room.''
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The Star listened carefully to all this, as they explained to her the girl's situation. Having plans for the young girl's entire life, when she should be making her own decisions regarding that once she came of age. It was truly unfortunate, but still Evadne would not give up. She had to help, to do something.
"Would they object to one like me taking her away to live elsewhere?" Evadne did not wish to endanger their jobs either, as that was something she knew was crucial to a mortal's life and being able to pave their own way. But again, she needed to try.
"I could take her to another city here, or perhaps even somewhere outside the country. There is one place I know of and came across even when I first arrived. I believe the humans and other folk here call it simply 'Sevenwinds.' Surely you've heard of it?"
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The maid pondered and moved along with the girl who did not shrug herself loose to hear what it was about. She simply took her cup of milk and waited for the 'adult talk' to be ready.
''Truth be told either they or us always need our eyes on her. Well. At least one of us. I do not think they would let young lady Emily out of their custory so easily. But it is worth a try to ask. They were close to saying yes to an all girls school where they learn to become smart, perfect wives who never complain. When hearing that, the young lady had some kind of seisure and cried none stop making the principal decide Emily would not fit in such an enviroment.''
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"I see." Evadne said quietly. Perhaps if she were to meet with Emily's parents, they might change their minds. "Would it be alright if I were to speak to them?"
The Flameling noticed that Emily had been led out of the room, the maid still covering her ears. "It might be possible to agree to some kind of arrangement, regardless."
The idea of neglectful or unloving parents was nothing new to the Star, she had seen it plenty of times before. For many a reason too. In some cases it was the child being born from an non-consensual union or being born out of wedlock, the parents deciding the baby was not important to keep around, and therefore abandoned it by a roadside where they didn't always survive. Sometimes they were found and cared for, but not always.
Other cases involved one or both parents being an alcoholic, which only fed their tendencies to be more and more violent as time went on. Yet others were in the case of mental illness, whether it was the parents or the child him or herself who suffered from such a malady. The reasons were numerous.
Evadne may not belong to any particular world, yet she had seen much and was very well familiar with all the misfortunes that could befall a person or persons. She was separate from it all, but still very much a part of it in her own special way. The travesties of many a planet had affected her over many eons, and when she was able to return back to her cosmic home, it was as though a cleansing of the spirit took place then. Any wounds, whether physical, emotional, magical, psionic or spiritual were all healed completely in the vastness of her true home. It was both a time of peace and restoration for her, and Evadne doubted that it was any different from any other earthbound star. That time also provided the greatest clarity as well.
Mortal life was so short and every moment of it counted for them. Evadne would do all in her power to make Emily's life a happy and fulfilled one. That promise had already been made when she descended and she could not break it for that would be a great crime no star would ever do.
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''You may. But will need to wait until they are back as they are at work. If there is one thing we know here, their work is most important to them.'' Farren said.
''I could arrange a room for you here in the meantime if you do not have a place to stay. If they permit Emily to be taken from their and our care then perhaps rather then being shaped to be something she is not, she could be a young girl again.''
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Evadne nodded at his offer of a room. "Yes, I thank you for your hospitality. And I will wait for however long is needed to speak with them."
"It is my wish as well that Emily has the life she deserves." Evadne said no more on the matter though, content to wait for Farren to show her to a room.
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Farren nodded and got on his feet. After opening the door for Evadne he saw Emily there with big teary eyes. ''Please do not make her go away Farren...'' she begged softly.
The maid that had accompanied her was holding the still half full cup of hot milk.
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As Evadne was led from the room, she saw Emily and the maid there behind the door. The little girl begged Farren not to turn her away, so to reassure her from her fears, Evadne smiled softly at the child.
I am not going anywhere, Emily. We will find a way. I promise you this. the Star sent the message silently in Star-Speak so only Emily would hear it, and not the maid or Farren or anyone else for that matter who might be in the vicinity.
We will find a way.
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Tears did fall from Emily's eyes. Happy ones and she walked forward before hugging Evadne's leg and burried her face in the woman's clothes as she released some of all that had been piled up inside of her. Not to mention she was tired and it was way past her bedtime.
Farren then picked the young lady up. ''Come. Let's get you to bed.'' he said softly to her. The maid took the girl from him though so he could lead Evadne to the room.
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Wishing Emily a good night's sleep, her heart warmed by the little girl's hug, Evadne followed Farren to wherever she would be staying. While she did not exactly sleep, she did need to periodically enter a trance state called Star-Prayer to restore her energies and any powers she might have used. The meditative state only lasted one hour, perhaps two, although while Evadne could stay in it longer it was not necessary to do so. Perhaps if the room she was to stay in had books to read that would help to occupy her time.
"Once again, I appreciate all this. I understand it is not easy to disobey the orders that were given you. It is my hope that Emily's parents will consider my request and allow me custody of her. I will make sure she has all she needs."
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''It happens on occasion we hire new staff. Many come from far because they know we do live ins only. If the Lord and Lady are away, then I am permitted to let some stay until they are back.'' Farren explained. ''I am not currently disobeying.'' he winked.
He showed Evadne a few other rooms. ''When the Lord is away, you are free to use the study and look in the books. We have a washingroom where you can bathe or shower. Emily will have a private teacher coming tomorrow. She was already enlightened about that Emily got home earlier. She is not the friendliest I mind you. She teaches Emily in the study but if her lessons are not interupted it should be alright.'' Showing her a few public rooms even a small library and the garden, Farren brought Evadne to a simple room with a few empty beds. A few desks and two wardropes.
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Evadne took in all that Farren showed her, memorizing where everything was for future reference. She had no need of a washroom being what she was, and besides the fact that water may have an adverse effect on her as it were. But it was not necessary to mention such to the servant, so Evadne kept quiet on that. The garden and library were of particular interest to her and the Flameling decided she would head to the library first whenever she got the chance.
When they arrived at one of the bedrooms, Evadne thanked Farren for the tour before he would leave. She did have one question though for him. "What else can you tell me about Emily's parents?"
The being of light figured that having as much insight as possible into the sort of people the girl's parents were would only help their cause in the long-run. It seemed to her from what she had heard that the father and mother were much too busy with their work, and had little desire to care for a child. The father likely viewed Emily as a painful reminder of what he had lost regarding his first wife, and that the stepmother found Emily to be a burden as well as a nuisance. However, Evadne would not pass judgment now or if ever. At least not without all the facts at hand. It would be better for all involved if the parents were free of this obligation, leaving Evadne to gain custody over Emily. That way the parents could do what they wanted regarding their business and Emily would gain both a loving parent and a friend at the same time. And Evadne would be able to fulfill her mission, the whole reason she came down here for this particular trip. It was by far the most favorable outcome. The next step would be convincing Emily's parents of that.
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''Both come from hardworking families with a simulair background. Having nothing at first. Being in the lowest rank of society. And got up the social ladder by working insanely hard. The Master had been lucky with a few deals which gave him a fortune. The current lady however, was of middleclass and was supposed to give the master a son to carry on the family name. Unfortunatly the Lady is incapable to be with child. The parents of my Master wished for the marriage to be nullified but he went against it saying he saw good potentional in her. She helped choosing the man for Emily whom is the Lady's cousin.'' Farren explained.
''Neither Master or Lady had the priveledge of fun in their young lives. At least not a lot. They live by ancient rules. I suppose that happens when you both come from old, once very respected families. But that, was a very long time ago.''
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Evadne nodded at all this. She could most certainly understand living by ancient rules, even if the rules she had to abide by were far more ancient and universal in breadth and scope. Of course another rule all Stars had to abide by, well the Flamelings at any rate, those who could descend, had to honor any wish sent to them if it proved good and true that was. And few wishes were more true than a simple wish to be loved and have a friend. All Flamelings had to do their best regarding such or they might lose the ability to descend ever again if they did not for whatever reason. How Evadne knew this, the best way to explain it was a primordial understanding that all Stars inevitably shared, the sense of consciousness given to them all by the universal force. It was an innate kind of knowledge and none of them could or would ever forget such.
"Tell me more about the man she is promised to, please." Evadne asked respectfully.
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''Well man. A young boy still for they are about the same age. Hard to say what I think of him other then he is a bit spoiled. His own family is less firm on him however regarding friends as long as they behave in the house and do the rough boys playing outside. Children tend to often change though as they get older. They are both to young to determine wether they fit one another. Maybe if both kids parents are not to busy they will arrange a meeting. The two children had not met one another since they were two years old.''
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"That is true, change is inevitable. I have seen many change over the course of my lifetime, some for the better...some not so. At any rate, I should allow you to rest and bid you a good night." Evadne pondered everything she was told, and decided she might utilize her Star-Prayer to see what insights she could glean, if any.
Turning toward the room, she walked inside and looked around. "Blessed night." she said to Farren in Star-Speak, a hand over her heart. He would be able to understand her, albeit in a subconscious way, the general meaning of the words would shine through.
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Farren bowed and wished Evadne a good night before walking off to check on the young lady. His work day was not yet over but he was used to it.
Emily already seemed to be asleep though. The empty cup of milk on her nightstand. He very quietly unpacked the rest of the young lady's suitcase and brought the empty cup with him when he left. Leaving the door open very slightly and a small light on. He wondered how his two Masters would respond on Evadne but still. He himself was not the youngest anymore and would only be a matter of time until he had to train a new one to take his place. Not an easy training, his took a few years. It was not just receiving guests after all.
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Closing the door behind her, Evadne went over to the window and looked out. She could not see the sky from here nor was it visible from anywhere in the city. It would take some getting used to. The glass and metal domes which protected the country from the outside pollutants may be a safeguard but they were stifling to one who thrived out in the open. Being what she was, that was not hard to understand.
Next, she went over to the one bookcase in the room, and ran her finger over the titled spines. Finding one of interest titled, "Wings Of An Angel" she took it off the shelf and opened it. It was a picture book, most definitely a children's storybook that told the story of an angel who earned her wings by doing a good deed for a charge of hers. The illustrations throughout the thin book showed the angel and her charge in various stages of the tale, ending with the final picture of the angel returning back home after her mission had been accomplished. Evadne could not help but feel a sense of connection there, as though the story had been written about her and Emily. It seemed really uncanny, the similarities that were depicted.
The Star read the whole book before putting it away with a smile and reached for another one, this one titled "Life Beyond." This one was more informational and talked about various scientific possibilities, but with a focus on the terraforming of a nearby planet called Edanith. The Star had not been to this Edanith before and made a mental note of it for later reference.
Putting that one back too, she settled down at the foot of the bed and entered her Star-Prayer meditation then and there. The transcendental journey would provide both peace and clarity for the Flameling. And perhaps certain insights as well into a specific little girl's family situation and her overall destiny.
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The parents as they were, always seemed succesful. Working hard and when they were to old their descendants took over in almost the same fashion. Another boy seemed to come in Emily's parents lives too. Treated with love they so far had not shown Emily.
The little girl though, if her situation would stay the way it was, would turn more grim and dark as somehow she seemed to lose hope and became the slave of her mother and father's wishes. The man she was promised to was gentle but to much damage had been done already. A kind the girl would never come out of.
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Emily slept peacefuly as her hope had been rekindled and held her doll close as she slept. But when she woke up early, the first thing she did was studying politics a little and rehearsed a few words from other languages until she was called for breakfast.
One of the maids also knocked on Evadne's door with the same news.
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The light of many stars and that of star stuff filled Evadne's vision as she meditated in her divine trance. Being both rejuvenating as well as informative and enlightening. The cosmic balls of fire from beyond twinkled and shone pathways of multi-colored light and hope in arrays of dazzling beauty. Soon, the path of one was revealed. It branched off into two different possibilities, one dark and grim, the other light and happy.
Focusing first on the dark path, Evadne did not like what she saw. Emily, the young girl would grow up to become bitter and deranged, full of resentment and jadedness for being denied the life she had wanted, the life she had needed. A wrinkled face of anger stared at the mirror in front of her before the scene faded to her dying alone on her death bed, no one to stand by her side as she passed from the world. Tears formed in the Flameling's eyes at this, but she forced herself to look on.
The second path was much more bright and hopeful. It showed Evadne and Emily doing many things together, whether that be reading an adventure book, to playing outside, to going to birthday parties and making friends of her own, all the way to the young girl now a beautiful woman getting married to a wonderful man, joy shining in her eyes as the two kissed to signify the beginning of their marriage to one another. And Evadne herself was there to watch it all and celebrate with her, her dear friend and adopted daughter. This life was much more positive, without the influence of her parents there to dictate what they wanted for the girl. Emily was free to grow up into a healthy and strong individual, unburdened by the past and looking forward to the future. The vision ended, and Evadne gave thanks before closing the trance and returning to herself.
The Star was now more certain than ever what had to be done. No one deserved the awful future that she had seen in the first vision, but rather the second one was what Emily deserved. As did anyone, she supposed. And she alone had the power to change that for her.
The night passed in full, and soon morning was on the horizon, yellow light weakly filtering in through the window as it passed through the thick glassy domes above. A knock soon sounded on her door and Evadne went to answer it. A maid was there to greet her and Evadne greeted her in turn, a hand on her heart. "Good morning to you."
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''Food has been prepared. If you wish to participate feel dree to follow me.'' the maid said kindly.
Emily already dressed and well, her hair combed and braided, a neat bow at the top and bottem, had already started breakfast. She was far from a fast eater and with her teacher coming soon, there would not be a lot of time. For now she had finished some cereal, and now nibbled on some toast with cheese accompanied with a glass of juice.
Not only did Emily ate barely enough for a girl her age, she needed effort to eat mainly due to the weight she already had on her. The facade of a neat little girl but those who casted their eyes twice would realise she was far from the type of girl she was supposed to be.
A plate with something to eat and drink for Evadne was present as well. Not knowing wether someone like her would need food, but Farren let it be prepared to be sure.
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Evadne followed the maid to the dining hall and sat down in one of the chairs. Thanking Farren and the servant who presented the food to her, Evadne began to eat. While she did not actually require food, she could still eat it. And besides not doing so might be considered a bit rude if not downright awkward as well. The energies of her body would burn away the consumed food so she had no need to do what others had to do regarding excretion.
Speaking to Emily then, Evadne asked how she slept. "Did you sleep well Emily?" Giving her a friendly smile.
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Emily nodded. ''I slept alright. I dreamt about happy things.'' Emily said softly. ''Did you sleep well to lady star Evadne?'' she asked. She was not sure how to adress Evadne properly but she would find out with the passage of time for sure.
''Farren... if my lessons with teacher Grottenbrugel are over will it be alright to sit in the garden? Lady manners lessons?'' she asked with a smile.
Farren smiled. ''I shall make sure of it to have some good tea and sweets young Lady Emily.'' the butler said before offering Evadne to refill her cup with tea.
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Letting him refill her cup, Evadne turned to Emily then with a small smile. "As a Flameling, I have no need for mortal sleep." she said, looking at the others as she said this. "I do however go through a certain trance state every now and then. I suppose it is somewhat similar in the fact that it restores my energy."
When Emily mentioned the garden, Evadne was glad. "I would be happy to keep you company in the garden when your lessons are over, Emily." Taking another small sip of tea afterwards.
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''Yay'' Emily cheered and quickly finished her toast and drink. Which was a good thing since the doorbel rang and Farren went to open it.
When he returned a woman was with him. She was a bit thin but her eyes revealed the wisdom she had with her age guessed roughly around 60 years.
Emily got on her feet and bowed towards Evadne. ''Until we converse again.'' she said politely, something that seemed to please the teacher who took the girl to the study.
Farren sighed of relief and took the empty plates. ''Lady Evadne. May I ask. A being such as yourself what do you do to pass the time?'' he asked
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Evadne bowed her head in farewell to the little girl as she was taken to the study for her lessons. "Likewise." she smiled at her.
When all the plates, cups and silverware were collected and taken to the kitchen to wash thoroughly, Evadne turned toward Farren with a smile as well as a faraway look in her eyes. "To pass the time...well, as I've told others before, when I am land-bound I merely go where I see an opportunity to either help or explore or learn various things. I'll read just about anything to acquire more knowledge, partake in watching plays, movies and TV shows, provided there is not too much violence depicted in them. Other times I roam the lands and give a helping hand wherever needed. Staying at various inns, the innkeepers never felt it necessary to ask me for coin since as a Star I don't have any. But regardless of where I stay, I always help out with the various tasks required, provided it doesn't involve too much water such as washing dishes and the like. Water sometimes makes me feel weakened, but I am able to drink small amounts of it without repercussion."
Pausing for just a bit, she continued. "When in my natural form in the cosmos, I along with the rest of my scattered kin, merely observe what goes on in many a world and space station. We listen to and observe what we can, and those of my kin who can travel go wherever our fancy takes us. The process for doing such is...complex but is necessary so as not to cause accidental harm to anything."
She added in one more thought for the time being. "I will stay here for however long I am needed here for. Time doesn't have the same meaning for me as it does your kind."
-
''True, time is not the kindest to us.'' Farren said with a grin. ''I do not mind a short life though. I think from a human's perspective I'd be a very lonely man.'' his grin became a smile. ''I will attend to my duties regarding the young lady's room. The maids will make the first preperations for the 'Lady class'. It is basicly how we call having tea outside. Normally they do not allow her in the garden. Only with this.'' he explained. ''Feel free to look around. Only the bedroom and workroom of my Masters is off limits but they are now locked. If you wish to help the maids it is fine too.''
Farren gave her a bow and resumed his duties.
-
"I will help the maids then." Evadne stood up and headed to where the garden was, as she wished to see it.
Once there, she went over to the first maid she saw and asked how she could be of service. "Is there anything I can do to be of aid here?"
The garden was really beautiful. A small fountain of white trickled at its center, and flowering plants of different colors grew, their aromas very fragrant. The entire place was enclosed in a sort of greenhouse, with glass walls and ceiling as well as wind chimes that hung from many different places. Even a couple sun catchers dangled from a tree, the soft tinkling sounds were soothing. Different garden statues were one of the final props to everything, statues of angelic beings, butterflies, dragonflies, and little country people all situated around, but did not make it cluttered either. Two benches provided places to sit, as well as a small table and chairs to have tea at.
-
''If you wish, we could set the table and bake a couple of small snacks.'' The maid replied calmly.
From a small shed she took a box that contained a pretty decorated tablecloth and matching fabric napkins. ''It is very oldfashioned don't you think? Not that I mind but it is so unfortunate they drag their little girl in it this deep.
She covered the table with the tablecloth and folded a swan from one of the napkinds, slowly showing Evadne how to do it. ''Farren told us you are a flameling. What made you come all this way?''
-
Evadne nodded and help her lay out the tablecloth, its designs that of pretty red, white and pink flowers, the same design on the napkins too. At her question, she smiled happily.
"As a Flameling, I often travel anywhere I please, though not all Stars can do so. But more specifically, it is the wish made by Emily that I am here now at this time and place."
She sighed, her smile faltering as Evadne remembered her first starlit vision she had had, before continuing. "I fear for her if her life continues in this fashion. Loneliness and despair for so long without any break in between is far from healthy in any way."
-
''I did not know she was that lonely...'' the maid said. Cleaning the porselain cups and polished the silverware.
The table was soon set and the maid guided Evadne to the kitchen which unlike the rest of the house was quite modern. ''I do think regarding Emily the sooner she is away the better. This is no life for her.''
-
Helping with the rest of the preparations, Evadne followed the maid to the kitchen after that.
"I agree." the star said softly, and also a little melancholic still recalling what she had seen from her Star-Prayer meditation. "It is truly unfortunate, but I aim to change that for the better."
-
''We will all miss her though. Maybe her parents too.''
There were many types of food and some things even really hard to get. But together with Evadne and soon two other maids there were fresh scones, cake, chocolates, and fruit, and some kind of small pastries with various fillings. It looked colourful for sure and it smelled lovely. ''This should be enough I think.'' Farren said.
''Let's set for a lavender tea. Grottenbrugel is not in her kindest of moods today. She stays patient for sure but Emily is not that stupid so it will rub off on her one way or another.''
-
Helping out with baking the pastries and gathering all the chocolates and fruits, in various porcelain and ceramic bowls and plates, Evadne helped to carry a fair share of it to the garden table. There was even a layered food tier with five levels, and so she carefully arranged several of the pastries on each one, even color coordinating them. Blues, yellows, pinks, whites and reds all on their own respective tier. Setting out the glasses too, frosted ones at the bottoms they were.
A good four hours had passed during this time, and so Evadne wasn't sure when Emily's lessons would end for the day. So she asked Farren. "How long do her lessons normally last?"
-
''Usually between four to five hours a day. So she should be done soon. She only had a small test today rather then a long one.'' the teapot had been placed on a standard with a little candle underneath so it would remain warm.
True, the teacher arrived first though. ''She graded above average regarding political knowledge. I'm sure that with a few more lessons she can turn it into flawless.'' she said as she looked at all the luxery food. ''I shall take my leave, and next lesson is in four days.'' she let herself out but it still took another good fifteen minutes for Emily to arrive. She had cried and attempted to erase those traces by washing her face but to little result. She smiled brightly though when she saw all the pretty and colored foods.
-
The teacher was cold in her demeanor, that was for certain. Evadne bade her farewell anyway, even if the middle-aged woman did not hear or acknowledge it at all. She waited patiently with the others for Emily to arrive, just mindfully checking on everything and its placement.
It was obvious the little girl had been crying, her tear-stained eyes were not the only thing that gave her away. There was a definite aura of somberness around the girl and that more than anything is what told Evadne that Emily felt terrible. But upon seeing all the colorful pastries and food, she brightened up considerably. The Star smiled at her.
"Greetings Emily. If you would like, we are going to have tea and scones in the garden area. Perhaps you can discuss the happenings of your day there or anything else you wish to talk about."
Gesturing in the direction of the glass-walled garden, Evadne smiled warmly at her. "Shall we?"
-
Emily nodded. ''I would love to mi-lady'' she said making a girlish bow.
''You and Lady Evadne should enjoy it to the fullest. I shall make sure there is plenty of tea and juice.'' Farren asured.
Emily pondered. ''It would be nice if everyone could join in but there are still chores aren't there...'' Emily asked.
The few maids looked at eachother. ''How about we switch roles with Farren once in a while.'' one suggested.
Emily nodded. ''Sounds good.'' she said with a smile. There were so many delicious foods, surely she would not be able to eat it all with just Evadne right?
The maids and Farren decided that he would go first and every fifteen minutes or so places would be changed amongst them so everyone had a turn.
Emily followed Evadne into the garden but did not sit until Farren pulled back the chairs so they could sit. ''It looks delicious.'' Emily said with a smile and rubbed her eyes once more.
-
Sitting down in the proffered chair, Evadne took a small buttery scone and put it on her plate. "Indeed it all does." she gestured for Emily to take whatever she wanted to.
The wind chimes and sun catchers caught the light from outside, making them gleam brightly almost like mini-stars. The flowers and plants all smelled heavenly, fragrant scents of lavender, rosemary, violets and roses among others all present in a non-clashing melting pot of aromatic olfactory bliss.
Pouring a bit of tea into her cup, Evadne handed the teapot to Farren so he could take some for himself. "So Emily, what would you like to speak about?" she asked her kindly. "Anything at all."
-
Emily looked at Evadne and thought. Normally she was not really asked any kind of subject and just had to listen quietly.
Farren poured her a cup of tea for Emily who took a cupcake at first. She wanted to talk about something happy but there was not much she could think of. Not after her lessons she just had. ''Farren... when you were my age what did you do? Did you ever break your parent's rules?'' she asked. And then looked at Evadne. ''And you when you were younger?'' she asked the star.
Hearing her asking this made Farren cough a little in his own drink. ''Well..'' he said with a chuckle. ''I may seem like a wellbehaving butler now but I was far away from it when I was a child.'' he admitted.
-
The star waited patiently for Emily to think of something she wanted to discuss and took a small bite of scone, chewing it before wiping her mouth on a napkin.
When Emily asked about Evadne's 'childhood', the Flameling carefully considered what to tell the little girl. "Well, with stars it's vastly different. Those of us who can become Flamelings do not actually have a childhood, at least not in the sense that most would view it. We age very slowly, if at all and I know I looked the same now as when I first traveled to a world." Evadne didn't mention that that was well over a billion years ago, if not two or three billion years. She didn't want to unnerve or frighten the girl. Perhaps when she was older, she could go into more depth that that.
"As far as family and next of kin goes, its even more complex." Taking a sip of tea before she continued on. "All beings like me are my family, yet at the same time we are all separate from each other. Separate but connected in our own cosmic way. I don't actually have parents in the way most land-races do." Again, Evadne didn't go into any more further detail as her birth into the universe was not exactly suitable for light conversation such as this.
"It may be difficult to fully grasp this as most I've met seem to have trouble accepting something so different than they. However, I have made many friends over the course of my lifetime. Humans, elves, dwarves, and many many others."
Evadne was certain that Emily would have more questions, but she also didn't want to take the spotlight completely away from Farren either. "But first, let Farren tell us about his childhood, if he would like." Taking another sip of tea before setting it down for the moment.
-
''I grew up in the middleclass. Not poor, not rich, just simply had everything we needed. Went to school... and got kicked off two of them for misbehaving.'' Farren admitted as he took a sip of his tea.
Emily using a fork, had started on her cupcake. Looking at him with big eyes. ''What did you do?'' she asked after swallowing her food.
''I may or may have not sabotaged all of the schools computers rendering them useless. The second time was because I was helping a person.'' He replied.
''How does helping a person get you expelled?'' Emily asked.
''Often if you do bad things, or are not as wellbehaving to others you get a negative reputation. I did not really care back then. I did a lot of pranks and sometimes had a short temper. But when I saw some of my classmates in trouble I wanted to help her. And I did. But the bully got to the principal first and lied. He said I started a fight for no reason. I did not have any true friends to back me up so the schoolboard decided it was best not to let me attend anymore.'' The way he spoke though it was clear he did not regret anything.
''Then what happened?'' Emily asked.
''The girl I helped in the end became a good friend and she helped me by teaching me at her house. And we are happily married.'' Farren replied.
Emily had big eyes of admiration. Regarding weddings she only knew those of fairy tales. ''But if you are happily married... why not living with her.'' Emily asked. ''Oh we are. You may not know it but Patricia is my wife. We however decided not to act as such when working. But do not worry young Lady Emily. We are happy here. Till a certain degree that is anyway.'' he was refering to Emily's unhappines of course. He did not mind his job. Patricia did not mind her job either. It was simple yet responsible work. But were stuck here until their contract ended which was until they would get to old. After that, both would get a good sum of money which could be used to buy a house for themselves and live calmfully until the end of their days.
-
The story was interesting for certain. It may not have started out well, but at least it had a happy ending. As often times many things were like that, and vice versa. Having lived for as long as she had, Evadne had seen many many stories through to their completion. Some good, some bad, some really good, some outright terrible while others were more on neutral ground, not swaying towards any particular side or spectrum. It was all part of the cycles of life.
"That is a really sweet tale of love and loyalty." Evadne commented, glancing at Farren. "You helped her when she needed it most and in the end, both parties were rewarded with a lasting relationship. It trumps over the negative aspects of the situation, for the results in the end were truly beneficial. If only all stories were like that, but sadly tis' not so."
Taking a pink frosted cupcake, Evadne divided it into three parts with a kitchen knife and gave the other two to Emily and Farren. "The universe holds many tales within its cosmic embrace. Some as old as time itself."
-
Emily thanked Evadne for the piece of cupcake and again ate it slowly and neatly after a sip of tea. ''Could you tell one of those stories? Or are they to long.'' Emily asked.
Farren had thanked Evadne for the piece as well. There were more frosted ones but since this time there would be 'servant roulating' sharing them this way was no bad idea.
-
Thinking for several seconds, Evadne contemplated which of the many stories she knew of that she could share. Finally she decided upon one.
"There is one story in particular that comes to mind. It was of a time long ago when I visited a planet that had been many many light-years away from here. Too far for some spacecrafts to visit if they don't have the proper resources but some very well could. The tale involves one of the peoples who had lived there, of a race of beings called Strikans, their home world having been that of Tushara, a large green planet that was about three times the size of this one."
"This particular Strikan individual, a male named Segora'Ra'Tenya like many of his kindred, practiced a kind of entertainment that was very popular there. It would best be equated as a type of land-whale racing, much like horse-racing, except that land-whales moved much more slowly than horses. It was not encouraged to become attached to these land-whales for they were little more than mounts to his people. A method to entertain the masses through many a news feed. However the whales were treated well and given all the care they needed, except for companionship. The only companionship they were allowed was to breed more land-whales for the Strikan peoples."
"However Segora'Ra'Tenya broke this mold and did the unthinkable. He befriended one and tried to let it escape one day into the great wild lands of the plains that surrounded their many kingdoms. There were some land-whales native to the plains that had not been bred to race in these games for their people. Segora'Ra'Tenya hoped to take the land-whale he had named Moo Lee away from his kingdom and to the vast plains beyond, so Moo Lee could have a life away from the Strikans and their demands and be with its own kind."
Evadne paused to take another sip of tea then before continuing. "Having organized a party to allow him to transport the land-whale unseen by the rulers and competition grand masters, they set out on their journey. Segora'Ra'Tenya would greatly miss his friend and vice versa but he knew it was for the best. This was no life for Moo Lee, he knew this deep in his two hearts."
Stopping here, she smiled and said, "Yes, Strikans possessed two hearts. It was the same for all of them, no matter their culture."
Continuing on with the tale, Evadne spoke again. "However one of the party members betrayed the group and with a hidden contingent of guards and soldiers the group was cut down, all save Segora'Ra'Tenya and the land-whale. However, the Strikan was gravely wounded and would not last much longer. He told Moo Lee to get away as fast as she was able to before more enemies would arrive to stop them, the former having all been slaughtered. He gave her an object to allow her to do so and she was able to make it to the promised destination in time where she lived a happy life with her own kin. But Segora'Ra'Tenya was not around to see this as he died shortly thereafter he had been struck down, his soul leaving the world of Tushara to ascend someplace I know not where. But he died with the knowledge that his friend would no longer have to endure the arduous life of land-whale racing. That she had found her way back to her own kindred where she belonged."
The Star paused again for a moment. "It is a bittersweet tale of friendship and loyalty, that. I had visited the world a few times prior to that occurrence but I had watched the above from afar in my true home and was not actually there in-person to witness it. Nor could I interfere with anything while in star-form. Universal law dictates such."
"I refer to these people in the past-tense as they are sadly no more, this having been many millennia ago. Perhaps more than that, I cannot really say. The world of Tushara was destroyed later on by a huge meteor that swiftly ended all life there. The devastation while horrible, was at least due to natural causes and not some dark foe bent on loss and destruction. But I remember the tale fondly, despite not actually having taken part in it."
Smiling a bit sadly, she added in one more thing. "What the people would be like today if their world hadn't been destroyed is unknown. But it was meant to happen the way it did."
-
''It is a pretty story. But also sad.'' Emily said quickly rubbing her eyes.
From whatever her teacher has said and had made her upset earlier, and so many other things. She actually had been on the edge of crying again. But she did not want to. Not now there was a chance of experiencing something fun.
Farren poured her another cup of tea seeing that Emily had finished it and gave her a small puddingroll which she gladly accepted.
Farren's time was over however and soon one of the maids came in to take his place.
--
There was a lot of talking and it was easy to discover Emily did not know a lot about the servants in the household. Mainly because many were afraid to lose their jobs if they got to close to her, and Emily was afraid she would be the cause for the same reason.
Emily finished the teaparty with pieces of fruit and it was dinnertime by then. Although of course Emily was completely full and thanked everyone. She felt a little warm and tired but before she would get a bath and sleep she still had some homework to do. After all. It had been told to her after doing the test that she was not good enough. Something she did have to fix.
-
Three hours later, the tea party was over with and Evadne thanked everyone for joining her and Emily to eat and converse. The Star had consumed enough food and drink that would take some time for her body to burn it all away. While eating was enjoyable, it wasn't something she required though. Being so far beyond a mortal or even a longer-lived one, it was not all that surprising. But she did feel the human sensation of being full.
Before Emily left to go to her room to study, Evadne called out to her. "I hope you had a wonderful time, Emily." Then noticing her still melancholic expression, she further said, "Do not let whatever was said to you bring you down. You are just as important as any other here. I'm certain you are trying your best." With a smile on her glowing features, Evadne left Emily to her own devices then as the star in turn headed toward the garden again to sit on a bench there. Just to simply be and think about whatever she wished.
-
''It was fun really. I had a really good time. Sometimes it seems though that doing your best and really can not do better is not enough.'' she explained. ''I am sure children my age do not learn about politics and tradestocks.'' she said calmly and gave Evadne a polite bow.
''I will join you in the garden when I am done with my homework.'' she assured and added the word promise before she excused herself and went to her room.
She found it hard to focus on her homework. And she felt tired and a little sluggish. She took off her neat dress and put on something more comfortable. A hidden set of clothes her mother and father knew nothing about and she had sown herself with her nanny. The clothes existed out of a weatshirt and a matching pair of pants.
-
In the garden, the Flameling sat on one of the benches there and quietly pondered about many things, as well as simply enjoying the serenity offered. While Emily was right about children her age not learning about politics, trade stocks and whatever else her parents deemed necessary for the girl to learn, Evadne did not say such, only bade her a temporary farewell as they parted ways. They both knew it so there was no need to reiterate it.
Looking up at the 'sky' again which only showed various metal platforms, stairways and elevators towering high above, Evadne sighed and looked back down. The view was still on the stifling side and would likely take a lot of time to get used to. The rush of a train was both heard and felt then as it traveled on the nearby railroad tracks, as it went to wherever it was going. That wasn't the only noise she heard but Evadne did her best to tune it out and enjoy the peace around her. People talking, dogs barking, and various machines whirring were also heard, their cacophony was not exactly on the lower end of the decibel range, but it wasn't outright deafening either.
An hour passed and Evadne got up to look around at the bushes. The red roses were the most plentiful here followed by violets, and then buttercups and chrysanthemums followed. Other floral varieties existed as well but in lesser numbers.
There was a small balcony leading outside and Evadne went over to it, opening the glass double doors which led to it. A couple potted plants were placed on either side of the railing and the Star leaned on it briefly taking in a deep breath, surveying her surroundings.
-
It took Emily a good three hours until her homework was done but she did not go downstairs right away. She loved to see Evadne but she did not want to make the woman sad either or the servants. She was not sure why but she had felt cornered. Almost even frightened. She did not want to be a disappointment to her parents again but she felt tired and sluggish.
Emily did fix her appearance but somehow she just could not smile. A knock was on the door when she had just finished puting away the trainingsuit and fixing her appearance.
The door opened, it was Farren with the message that the deal her parents made went better and faster then expected and that they would be back the day after tomorrow, aproxematly afternoon.
''If they closed an agreedment then why wait another day?'' Emily asked.
''I suppose they wish to look around in the city more.'' Farren replied and entered the room placing his hand on Emily's forhead and cheek. He gave a thoughtful look but left it alone. To him she seemed a little feverish but he could not feel any raise in temperature. She was just tired.
''I recommend to the young lady, that she will go to bed soon.'' Farren said.
Emily nodded. ''I wish to see Evadne before I go to sleep please.'' Emily said softly. Farren gave her a nod. ''I shall prepare something nice to drink for you.'' he said and followed Emily downstairs although where he went to the kitche, Emily went to the garden.
-
During those three hours, Evadne had grabbed a large book to read from the library and was currently still reading it when Emily made her appearance. Putting down the book, the Star smiled and greeted the little girl. She also noted her tiredness but at the moment chose not to voice that. "Greetings and good evening, Emily. I trust that everything's alright?"
If Emily wished to talk, this gave her the opportunity to do so, otherwise Evadne would not press. She respected everyone's boundaries after all and knew more than well enough to let something be. Making eye contact with the girl, Evadne did her best to make Emily feel comfortable.
-
The girl wanted to nod and smile but she had not even nodded once or tears fell from her eyes. Not needing any pressure actually to release whatever was inside of her system.
Her knees felt weak and no longer supported her either and quickly caused her to fall. ''I... I've had enough of this life...'' she sobbed. Burrying her face in her hands. Pappa and Momma are finished with arranging their deal but... but instead of coming home sooner they... they just...'' she did not finish her scentence though. She couldn't. Saying they prefered alone time over spending a bit of time with their daughter again, which was something she concluded out of it was just to harsh.
-
The Flameling quickly went over to Emily and gave her a hug, while lightly rubbing her back in soft circles. She did not say anything, not even that things would be alright as she didn't wish to give the girl false hope, at least not until things became more certain as to where they would go. She simply embraced the girl, letting her aura shine brighter with love and peace as Emily sobbed her heart out. Letting her take whatever comfort she needed to at this time.
-
Emily needed a good twn minutes until her tears had dried up. Mumbling words unable or barely able to be understood through her sobs although in general they were about her trying so hard and that it was not enough and she wanted nothing more then a friend and her parents to love her but that it was just to much to ask. Also that she felt a little guilty for having Evadne come all the way here but that she apreciated it beyond measure.
-
Evadne continued to embrace the girl as she sobbed. "There, there, let it all out." she soothed softly.
Hearing Emily mumble, but just continued to hold her not saying too much. When Emily muttered about feeling guilt over Evadne coming here because of her wish, the star sighed and turned Emily to face her after she was done crying. "Do not feel guilt, Emily. There is no need for it. Your feelings are well-founded so there is nothing to be ashamed of. Take heart in that I am here now and that I will be that friend and companion for you which you crave. I am not going anywhere. You have my word. On behalf of all stars everywhere, you have my most sincerest word."
Smiling gently at her, Evadne placed her hands on her shoulders. "I can tuck you in to bed and sing you to sleep if Farren allows it. You need to sleep as it is. Come, let's head on inside."
The Flameling guided the girl back inside the house so they could briefly talk to Farren and then put Emily to bed. The girl had had a long day, and needed rest. Hopefully tomorrow with the light of a new day, she would feel better.
-
Emily did not protest but before she got tucked in she did drank the warm milk that Farren had prepared for her.
She listened to Evadne's singing though after she had changed and finished the drink. Although her body did not allow her to listen very long as her eyes closed allowing that nights final tears to fall.
---
Emily was not sure why though. The next morning she both felt a little better but also more horrible. Like an automatic routine she did her homework but after a few minutes the world started to spin around. It was warm too. It made her open the window and the morning air was something she welcomed. Then realised by how dark it still was, that it was still very early.
Rather then calling for anyone though, afraid to wake them up, Emily left her room muttering the names of the servants very softly and eventually reached the stairs. Holding the guardrail tight with her small hands, heavily panting as if she had been running for hours she took a few steps down until the world seemed to spin again and before she could call out a name loud or sit down she lost her grip and fell down the stairs
-
Quietly closing the door to Emily's room after the girl had gone to sleep, Evadne carefully descended the stairs to the second floor where her own chambers were located. Instead of heading there straight away, she first visited the library, taking with her the book she had been reading prior to putting Emily to bed. Sitting down on the couch inside, the Flameling opened the book again and resumed reading.
Three hours later she finished it with a smile and returned the book back to the bookshelf, then left the room. Going to her room now to meditate in her Star-Prayer trance, she passed by the stairs then, only to have a small body come tumbling down the staircase, hitting her head-on! Evadne and whoever it was both fell in a heap on the floor, and the star let out an oomph! at the rough impact.
-
Emily made no vocal sound as she crashed into Evadne and remained motionless. She however did feel very warm and one of her legs seemed to have broken during her fall. It were no short stairs after all.
Emily seemed to stir slightly and mumble something but it was not clear what she said.
-
After getting her bearings, Evadne saw that it was Emily who had crashed into her. Seeing that the little girl did not move, the Flameling hurriedly bent down and lightly shook her. "Emily?"
The girl muttered something unintelligible beneath her breath. "Emily?!" Evadne started getting really worried, and placed a hand on her forehead. She was warm to the touch, just like Evadne was. However being a star that was normal for her. For Emily it was not. One of Emily's legs also seemed out of place, bent at a most uncomfortable angle.
Wasting no more time, Evadne picked up Emily and carried her, intent to find Farren and alert him of what had happened. Being mindful not to further injure her. Going down the halls with the little girl in her arms, she realized she had another problem. She did not know which room was Farren's and so knocked on the first door she came upon, a soft but firm knock. Then waited.
-
It was not the door to Farren's room but he had heard the noise. It had woken him up and in a bathrobe he had exited the room still halfway putting it on. When he wanted to ask what happened he could see something was wrong. She seemed more feverish then before and her leg started to look bruised where it was broken.
''Place her on the ground gently and make dure her head it tilted sideways.'' He told Evadne and ran to the nearest phone. Fortunatly there were plenty in th house.
He called for an ambulance before joining Evadne again.''what happened with her. Do you know?'' Legs did not break just like that. And he had not exactly been able to identify the nouse Emily had made when she fell.
-
"She fell down the stairs." Evadne told him, setting Emily down just as he told her to. "I was walking back to my room from the library after reading when I passed the staircase and she came tumbling down it, crashing into me as a result."
Her brow furrowed in worry as she looked at the little girl then. "I am not sure what made her stumble like that, but she does seem to be running a fever. I can go fetch a cool washcloth and a bowl of water for her while we wait for the ambulance to arrive."
The Flameling made to go do just that, casting one more worried glance at Emily before quickly trying to locate the said items.
-
Farren quickly called directions to Evadne as he tended to Emily more. The other servants had woken up as well and one quickly went to assist Evadne, another attempted to get hold of the girls parents.
Farren however could not seem to get Emily awake at first but she seemed to regain consciousness somewhat not long before Evadne got back.
''Farren... why is it so warm... why does my leg hurt..'' she asked
-
Finding a bowl and a clean cloth, Evadne filled the bowl with cool water and quickly went back to where Emily was, the maid who had assisted her also following behind. Dipping the cloth in the water, she pressed it to the girl's forehead for a few moments before dipping in back in again to freshen it. Emily was definitely running a fever. After re-wetting the washcloth, Evadne placed it back on Emily's forehead and dabbed a little at her neck too.
"You fell down the stairs." the Flameling told her softly, blue-black eyes glancing at her in concern. "The ambulance is on its way. Your parents have also been told of this."
-
''Stairs...'' she said silently. Her eyes closed when feeling the cold water in her neck. The maid dipped the insides of her wrists as well.
The door was opened when the paramedics arrived with a cart and Emily got carefully placed on it after blood was drawn and an injection needle with a tube to give her fluids was given.
"Please... can they come with me?'' Emily asked. Only two were allowed in the ambulance however.
Farren discussed shortly with the other servants before it was decided he would come with her.''Evadne, want to come with? Or do you prefer to arrive with the others.''
-
"I will go with to keep her company." Evadne told Farren. "I would like to be by her side during this time."
-
Farren nodded. All but two servants who had night shifts headed to their own vehicles to follow the ambulance Emily carefully got loaded into. In the meantime she had basicly slipped back into her former drowsey state.
Loud sirens then sounded as one of the paramedics told the driver they were in a hurry and continued to attempt cooling Emily off.
''How long has she been feeling sick?'' One of them asked both Evadne and Farren.
''I do not know. She has been a little sluggish since yesterday but she had some stressful events and was tired. Last night she only had a slight increase in temperature but no indication that she was actually sick.'' he said calmly.
-
Evadne nodded in agreement. "She has been under a lot of stress lately, from what I can gather since I arrived here. Her fever must have fully surfaced sometime during the night. She had also fallen down the stairs earlier, thus giving her the broken leg."
Waiting until Emily was put into the ambulance, and given the okay to go on in after her and the paramedics to sit by her side along with Farren. Glancing at Emily with eyes of caring and worry, she turned to Farren then. "Are her parents on the way?"
-
''They will leave their hotel in the morning since Emily is in good hands and they still need to pack, but they will come as fast as they can.'' he sighed. ''If we wanted them to come right away or at least one of them right away we should've told them she broke her back.'' it were harsh words and even the paramedics were suprised by them.
''With the intensity of her fever... and most likely a concussion she is lucky to be alive when it is morning. She will need surgery for her leg that's for sure. And see if there is another reason for her to be this ill.'' one of the paramedics said who was strapping some cooling packs to the girls wrists so she could get rid of more warmth.
''She will need an icebath too if her fever does not drop.''
-
At hearing the harsh words about Emily's parents, Evadne truth be told, wasn't that surprised by it. Everyone knew the tensions that existed between the little girl and her parents. So it was really not a shocker to hear such disdain come out of Farren's mouth. The star hoped they would at least have the decency to come by in the morning to check on their daughter, but knowing what she had witnessed in her starry vision, she somehow doubted they would. But Evadne would not think ill of them, such was not the nature of a star. The only beings she felt ill will toward were those who had fallen into darkness, their morals twisted beyond any sort of goodness or kindness. Emily's parents may not be the best of parents, but they were by no means evil.
Getting comfortable in the back of the ambulance, Evadne let the paramedics do their work while she sat nearby to give moral support with her presence alone. "I pray she makes it through this." she told Farren. "It is not her time to go."
Silently in her mind, Evadne projected her wish for Emily to hang in there, that she had much to live for in her native star tongue. "Be strong Emily. You are loved." the words would sink into the girl's consciousness, no doubt she would 'hear' it.
-
''It isn't...'' Farren replied as the paramedics put a breathing mask on Emily's face. The girl had lost consciousness once more.
A bucket of ice was opened which was used to start cooling Emily down.
It were a long ten minutes to the hospital and Emily got quickly loaded out. But after going through a few doors, nobody but the paramedics and doctors were permitted to enter. Emily's blood was sent to the bloodlab for a few quick tests.
-
The ride over was mostly silent, Evadne simply content to stay by Emily's side to give moral support. Her expression was worried, but remained calm nonetheless. Once there, Evadne and Farren were directed to a waiting room where the star took a seat then. The room was filled with a few others, but none paid any attention to them except for a young boy who came over to the Flameling, curiosity in his eyes.
"Are you a star?" he asked shyly.
A little surprised, the luminescent blonde woman looked at the child kindly. "I am." she smiled at him. "And who might you be, young one? I am Evadne."
The boy grinned widely and exclaimed loudly, "My name is Matthias! But my parents mainly just call me Matt." He looked at Evadne curiously again. "Are you here granting a wish?" he asked.
The perceptiveness of the young child was rather astounding, Evadne thought. She smiled at him again and replied. "I am here on behalf of a young girl around your age. Might I ask how you know all this?"
Matthias piped up once more. "My daddy was visited by a star years ago! He had red hair and glowing orange eyes. You remind me of him."
"Is that so? How very interesting. It is a shame I was not there to meet him then." Evadne mused.
"Daddy had been sick and Pyrrhus cured him of it! That's the star I mentioned before! He's all better now!" The little boy looked so excited to see another star he was all but glowing in enthusiasm. "I'm sure he would have loved to meet you too!"
"Matthias! Get back here!" An older woman, possibly his mother scolded him and the little boy ran back over with an apologetic look Evadne's way. "What I have told you about talking to strangers?" she shook a finger at him in warning.
"But mommy, she's a star! Just like Pyrrhus is!" the boy interjected with a whine.
The woman sighed irritably. "I have told you many times before, that it was the doctors who cured him, not some faraway glowing ball of light. And no buts!" she narrowed her eyes at her son who looked about to protest. "Stars do not come down from the heavens, you are getting too old to believe in such nonsense."
"But--" Mattthias argued, but it was a futile attempt.
"No buts about it. Now sit down and wait like the rest of us here. Your sister is very ill and we have to wait until the doctors let us see her. Not another word about stars and other such ridiculous notions." the woman resumed reading her cooking magazine, Matthias looking extremely put out now.
Evadne gazed sadly at him, and silently gave a small blessing of her kind in her head for the little boy's sister to get well soon. After that, the room fell silent again as she resumed her wait to see how Emily was faring. It could be awhile but time was irrelevant to a being who had lived for as long as she had.
-
''There is nothing you can do for that boy's sister is there...'' Farren asked. He was not certain how Stars worked. Evadne had responded to Emily's wish. But would that mean Evadne could do nothing for others?
Farren pondered briefly for a moment before he excused himself briefly. The other servants including Farren's wife had arrived as well. But no parents yet.
''Any news about Emily?'' a servant asked Evadne since Farren had not yet returned.
Farren had went to the informationdesk and asked for someone. He was to far away for the rest to hear but the man at the informationdesk suddenly got on his feet quickly and spoke about doing something right away.
-
The Flameling watched Farren leave the room, her eyes sad. "I can't." she whispered softly, after he was out of earshot. And it was true. Only some stars had the power to heal and restore, while others could directly grant wishes. But Evadne was not one of these. While a star, she was not among the most powerful of her kin and the only way for her to fulfill Emily's wish was to carry it out herself, which would not be an instantaneous process.
But what Evadne could do was petition the others using Star-Prayer and see if one who could was available. But it was not always a surefire plan, as only a small fraction of stars could actually descend to earthly ground.
The celestial being looked up as the other servants entered. Sorrowfully noting that the little girl's parents still had not shown up. Evadne shook her head at the servant's question. "Not yet." she replied. "I do not know where Farren has gone to though. But I would much like to see her." As would they all she knew.
-
''We all would like to see her. Preferably awake and joyfull. But we need to wait till she is out of surgery.'' One of the maids replued.''As for Farren. I think he is pulling some strings. The Khahsuul family are rather huge stockholders of this hospital.''
Farren returned about half an hour later holding a tray with cups of coffee offering everyone one. It was not until a few hours that a doctor visited them and Emily's parents were still not there.''Surgery was succesfull. Lady Emily is resting now and will wake up soon from her anestetics. Appearantly there had been an infection in her abdomen and had been active for a whike causing bloodpoisoning.'' He explained.''She is not exactly out of danger yet but Emily will be bound to a wheelchair for a while. You can follow me to her room.''
-
The star nodded solemnly and continued to wait. When Farren came back offering them cups of coffee, Evadne politely declined as she did not want any.
Standing up when the doctor came in to announce the success of the surgery, Evadne exhaled in relief and smiled gladly. "Of course. Lead the way please."
-
The doctor nodded and directed Evadne, Farren and his wife to the room. Not allowing more people because it would be to busy for Emily.
There were no other people in the room currently other then a few nurses checking the machinery which would monitor Emily's vital functions. Emily's broken leg was strapped so she could not move it and one of the machines revealed her heartbeat. The intravenous therapy had just finished being set up. A nurse spoke to Emily who seemed to have woken up. She looked tired and her eyes were a bit dark. ''Look. Your friends here here. You will be alright. If you need anything just push that button I told you about alright?''
Emily nodded and thanked the nurse. her voice did sound a little bit dry but she did smile when seeing Evadne and the others. The doctor and nurses left after they had checked the machinery one more time.
''Hey sweety. How are you feeling.'' Farren whispered who placed down stools for his wife and Evandne to sit on. ''Tired... but a little better.'' Emily replied softly.
-
"That is well." Evadne replied, taking a seat on the proffered stool. Smiling kindly at Emily, the Flameling's eyes sparkled in both relief and warmth. "You take all the rest you require, alright?"
Looking over to the closed blinds and curtains of the full-length window, she glanced back at Emily. "Would you like for me to open the blinds a little to let some light in?" Seeing as the room itself was pretty dim, except for the bright screens of the machinery and Evadne's own starry glow.
-
''I would like that.'' Emily said softly.''On it.'' Farren said as he was the only one still standing. When he opened the curtains he noticed it was dawn. The soft pastel light colorung the room with the last star and moonlight.
''The doctors said it could take a while for me to get better...''
''No need to worry about that Emily. Take the time you need. Relax. Get better.''
''But what about my mom and dad...'' she asked knowing thar they would want her to resume her studies as soon as she could.
-
Evadne looked at Emily kindly. "It is alright Emily. The most important thing is for you to recover from all the stress you've been under. Your well-being takes the most precedence here. Take whatever time you need to rest and replenish your energies, and the rest will follow afterward. Everything in due time." Saying that last part in Star-Speak, the ethereal language of the stars. She patted the little girl's shoulder comfortingly and smiled.
-
Emily nodded and gave a weak smile. She then grew silent though. Not knowing what to say. But it was then she started to cry again.
Farren's wife pondered briefly. ''Hey Emily. When you are discharged what would you like to do?'' she asked. ''It can be anything.'' She knew Emily would need to cry at some point but figured it would be a good thing to let the girl look forward to something. Not to mention Emily had to be as still as she could and with her body trembling it could perhaps hurt where the stitches were.
Emily wiped her tears. ''I do not know maybe... maybe an amusement park or a festival... I know I can not do anything to existing or physically challenging just yet but I'd maybe like that with the three of you with me...''
''Then we will do exactly that. We could even visit another planet if you'd like. A holiday. You deserve one.''
''Thank you.'' Emily said faintly.
It did not take long for their little peaceful moment to be disturbed however as a nurse arrived with Emily's parents whom entered the room.
''Hello sweety'' her mother said whom had rushed to the bed. ''How are you feeling? Surely you must've quite the scare.''
Before Emily could answer however her father had his eyes on Evadne. Vaguely remembering the woman from the park where she had returned Emily's doll. ''Whom might you be?'' he asked firmly.