Solace
. . .
The twins seemed to draw energy off of one another - they seemed to be inexhaustible. Solace could barely keep up with their moods as they alternated between perfect, loving siblings and Hellcats. One moment they stood nibbling fondly at each other withers, the next found them squealing and calling each other names which begged the question, where did they learn that word?!
As night falls, the little family returns to one of their sheltered nooks in the mountainside. Valdis and Clegane continue to bicker, but with a lifted brow and the threat that "if you do not sleep, you will not be able to see uncle Svedka tomorrow," she silences them, trying to suppress the smile which threatened to ruin the effect. But as soon as the rambunctious pair were settled and dozing, the caretaker finds that her own weariness is overwhelming. Solace looks to her mate with sleepy, apologetic eyes as she realizes their moonlit walk will have to wait.
"Tomorrow, at noon, meet me by the driftwood tree," she says with a kiss, "just me and you," before falling into a sound, dreamless sleep.
Too soon the night is over, and Kagerus had been off at dawn to patrol. Solace feed the twins, now refreshed and eager, and by mid-morning, they were on their way to the lake. The trio finds Svedka where he promised to be, and with a smile and a heartfelt, 'Thank you', Solace takes to the sky.
A little earlier than planned, Solace lands beside the gnarled, ancient oak tree bleached by the sun and salt. The western coast of Hyaline saw little activity, the mountains were pocketed with caverns and the pebbly sand was cool - the perfect place for some alone time with her queen. Patiently she waists, ambling through the seafoam and glancing at the curious objects the tide has brought in.
A sound causes her heart to leap, and all thoughts of treasure and ocean invaders vanish. With sparkling blue eyes she turns, her favorite name on her lips.
"Kagerus..."