Sentry Rising
Page 34
Thad’s heart beat fast, his eyes gazing at the magnificent tree before him. It shimmered softly like a mirage in the desert heat. The drums beat louder. Completely mesmerized Thad barely heard as the gnomes again began to sing.
“A silver tree holds you dear
Till the day, you might reappear
So hush a-bye, and close your eyes
Your dreams will keep you safe and sound
Your soul will pulse forever as one with nature.”
They planted their candles in the ground. Thad watched in wonder as the gnomes danced around the flames. A gasp rose from the meadow as the flames licked slowly up the trunk of the tree spreading to every branch and leaf. The fiery trail etched the bark, igniting an elegant script smoldering bright in the night. Without warning the music stop. As mysteriously as they appeared the Tuathia’s residence’s vanished.
Time held no meaning as one by one people laid flowers by the tree. Soon only Thad remained. Clutching a black orchid tightly in his hand, He softly tip toed to the tree, scared to touch it. Cautiously he reached out his hand. Warmth still lingered in the bark. He tenderly traced the intricate lines left by the fire.
“I will always remember,” he whispered, gently laying his flower in the deepest nook of the trunk. The tree shifted. A crystal shell sealed the flower in place. He leaned forward, laying a kiss upon its massive trunk. His hands lingered for a moment scared that once he left this beautiful reminder would vanish into the night. A finger at a time he allowed himself to step back. The silver tree shone bright before him.
“Would you like me to walk with you to the house?” Remy asked taking Thad by surprise.
“You scared me Remy I thought I was alone out here.”
“The others sent me to find you,” he admitted.
Thad smiled. “I would like very much for you to walk with me to the house.”
“Ready?” Remy asked.
Thad inhaled deeply, “Ready.”
he pair reached the familiar brick stairs of the old white washed front porch. They could hear the scurrying of feet rushing to prepare for the Professor’s wake. A few of the Tuathian ladies volunteered their services and prepared an inviting spread of food that was being laid on the massive dinning room table. Thad was relieved to see that among the throngs of people, Leath and Traiden were already there eating and chatting away with the newcomers.
“Hey guys!” Thad greeted in his most cheery voice.
Leath almost choked on his food trying to say something. “Ou okay fad?” he managed to ask.
“I think I am?” He replied unsure how honest his response was.
“You should try the food, it is pretty darn delicious!” Leath spoke loud enough for the Tuathian woman to hear, giving the little old ladies a wink.
“You just can’t help it can you,” Zyphera scolded from the doorway. A look of horror crossed Leath’s face. “But that is why I love you,” She admitted walking to him and gently placing a kiss on his crumb riddled lips.
Leath’s eyes lit up and he smiled a food filled smile.
Thad watched as Zyphera and Leath snuggled up feeding each other bits of food. Usually such a public display of affection would make him want to gag, but today it comforted him. Things had changed, but not all of it was for the worst.
“Hey there big guy,” Mathias sauntering from behind, resting his massive arm on Thad’s shoulder.
“Hey,” Thad answered struggling under the weight.
“Disgusting those two eh?”
Thad nodded his head. “Yup and it is only going to get worse once their married.” He replied making a gross face.
Mathias laughed. “Are we going to be okay?” He asked, looking down at Thad.
“I don’t know,” Thad replied honestly, fixing his eyes on the angel, “I just don’t know.”
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“It is time to leave Professor,” Camael said, gently taking him by the hand.
“But there is still so much I have to tell him. So many things he needs to know,” Bartholomew pleaded his voice sad. “I kept secrets from him. I lied to my own Grandson,” he exclaimed in shame, turning to face the young boy beside him.
“He is a Smart, Brave boy. He will understand your actions,” Camael assured him.
“I hope you are right,” Bartholomew whispered.
“He is surrounded by many who love him, and will gladly give their lives for his safety. He will be okay,” Camael tugged gently on the Professor’s arm. “We must go.”
Bartholomew stood by the window a moment longer. “I am so sorry Thad. It is unfair what I have done to you. I hope in time, you will be able to understand and forgive me.” He brushed a solitary tear from his cheek. “Farewell Thaddeus,” He added, before turning and following the young boy into the night.