Maea
Rest against my pillow
like the aging winter sun
like the aging winter sun
Passing the time in Liam's company, partaking of the sumptuous feast and scattered conversation, Maea had forgotten to be nervous by the time a hush settled over the festival. Fumbling for her partner's hand while cupping Shii's soft glow against her chest, she watched with bated breath how the lanterns dimmed one by one, in groups and at random until only one remained.
Quiet disappointment flared when it became clear that it would not be her lantern, nor Liam's, that was chosen this year. Permitting the feeling to register, the pale ancient then breathed it out, banishing the selfishness so she could smile at the sight of Isla's face lit by a boldly fashioned lantern. Very much on brand for the person who barreled into view, it seemed; it was a face she vaguely recognised but remained unfamiliar with. A mystery not likely to be solved; at least not this night.
"That's it for this year," she concluded, a faint sigh chasing off the last of her nerves. Pale eyes searched her lover's face, quietly regretful for him as much as for herself... She squeezed his hand. "Want to dance? Or we can bring some food and drink back to our room... I've got a whole basket to fill." They could talk, or distract one another from their various regrets - or simply linger there among the lanterns until the night had faded. She was dressed for the chill of the season; whatever Liam preferred to do next, she was ready to join him.
Quiet disappointment flared when it became clear that it would not be her lantern, nor Liam's, that was chosen this year. Permitting the feeling to register, the pale ancient then breathed it out, banishing the selfishness so she could smile at the sight of Isla's face lit by a boldly fashioned lantern. Very much on brand for the person who barreled into view, it seemed; it was a face she vaguely recognised but remained unfamiliar with. A mystery not likely to be solved; at least not this night.
"That's it for this year," she concluded, a faint sigh chasing off the last of her nerves. Pale eyes searched her lover's face, quietly regretful for him as much as for herself... She squeezed his hand. "Want to dance? Or we can bring some food and drink back to our room... I've got a whole basket to fill." They could talk, or distract one another from their various regrets - or simply linger there among the lanterns until the night had faded. She was dressed for the chill of the season; whatever Liam preferred to do next, she was ready to join him.
Only wake each morning to
remember that you're gone
remember that you're gone
