Chronicles of Den'dra - Spencer Johnson Page 0,136

a hug and barely noticed that they were being addressed a moment later.

“We are so proud of you two. Why couldn’t you be so romantic Encer?” Mytera burst through the door impatiently.

“I thought I was. I gave you flowers.”

“Broaching the subject over a bowl of porridge can’t be considered romantic no matter how many flowers you pick beforehand.” Mytera swatted Encer on the shoulder before giving Torroth a hug.

“Wait…? Did I miss something?” Torroth extricated himself and inquired of Encer and Mytera.

“It was shortly after the two of you left.”

“It was a full double moon after they left.”

“All right. A full double moon after you and Inadar left, we realized there was more between us than just Inadar.”

“Oh hush, you make it sound so ordinary. After my first husband died leaving me a childless widow, I never thought that I could fall in love again, but here we are.” Mytera was nearly bubbling over with her jubilance at the prospect of grandchildren. She left little doubt that she would be a grandmother despite not sharing any blood with the two. Such minor things couldn’t be considered.

“Can we do it quickly? Iradaemi wants to leave with me as soon as Setur gets back. In her eyes, stating that Anissa is my mate is enough. She won’t have any patience for a ceremony.”

“Leaving! You just proposed to the poor girl. You can’t leave. Anissa, you have a stake in the matter now. Say something.” Mytera protested vehemently.

“We already settled it. I will let him follow his principles this time, but he is never to leave me again.” Torroth couldn’t recall the specific conversation wherein this stipulation had been agreed upon, but he knew better than to start an argument where the conclusion was foregone. A silent nod in assent was all his acknowledgment.

“Iradaemi is going with you to find Inadar?” Encer inquired as he stroked his beard. Torroth noticed that it was now even parts black and gray.

“She thinks Setur will have a lead on her location. After that, she wants to go with two human warriors. I am supposed to be one, but I have no idea who the other is supposed to be.”

“Interesting… Anyway, we should get started then. Mytera, do you have the supplies in stock?”

“Why you old rat. To think that I haven’t any bread or wine in the house. What kind of wife would I be if I didn’t?” Mytera departed mumbling to herself as she went.

“Torroth, do you want anyone else to witness this?” Encer asked as he withdrew a white cord from his pocket.

“These villagers are my friends, but I think they will understand that the circumstances don’t allow for a big ceremony. I have no family other than you and Mytera. What about you Anissa?”

“I was an orphan. I had a few friends, but they are far away now in a life that is no longer mine. I would be honored to have you and Mytera as my witnesses.”

“Very well. This is an old ceremony. One of the responsibilities that has fallen upon myself for having founded this village. However, it is one of my favorite responsibilities that my office holds. Over the years I have performed seven of these ceremonies and from the way a few of the youth are acting, there will be a few more in the nearer future. Are you ready Mytera? All right. Torroth place your right hand in front of you palm up. All right. I bind this cord around your wrist to represent your vow to Anissa. Anissa place your left hand palm up on Torroth’s hand. All right. I now bind the same cord around your wrist to represent that Torroth’s vow also binds you. Your hearts are bound together and may you never wish to break that bond. Mytera, the bread now. Now both of you close your hands over it. Just like that. This bread is a blessing on your union. May you never hunger and may your house never experience want. The wine now Mytera. I pour this wine over your bond and the bread to bless your future together. May this vow between you bring happiness for the rest of your days. On a personal note, Mytera and I would also like to wish that your union be blessed with children. They are a blessing in disguise. When you are our age, you will agree. Before then, you might think we are cursing you. This isn’t finished yet so stop that blushing.