[Farson Home] What's the story, morning glory?

[Hadrian]

22nd Winter, 512 A.V. dawn Hadrian had returned the evening previous, and there had been much tumult. Kasai had been found a bed among the orphans, and Hadrian spoke to the adults who had kept things running in his absence. They even seemed pleased to have him back. Then he had not paused even for a meal before reporting to Lord Maria and the Regents and the leaders of the Sailors' Guild about what had occurred in Sahova. When he had returned, he went immediately to bed. But he woke early, as he always did, but this time the thought on his waking mind was that Ethan was due back from his Wave Guard duties at dawn. He lit a few candles and put them in the windows of his office. If Ethan flew home, he might see the gentle beacon. But he paced his office, not able to sit down and get any of his work done because he kept returning with his tea to the one window he had left dark that he might peer out toward the gate to see if Ethan returned by foot. He did look dashing in his Wave Guard uniform, and Hadrian hoped that was still working out for him. They said a watched pot never boiled, but Hadrian could not help himself.

[Ethan]

Ethan spent his morning shifts meditating and practicing his Auristics. The Baazar where he was stationed was the perfect location. In the early morning everyone had a purpose, there was no idle chatter or trudging along. And that drive gave intensity to one's Aura. Made it shine brighter. Easier on the eyes, so to speak. When dawn began to fade his replacement arrived. The two exchanged happy greetings and words of encouragement. The sailors and commoners that littered the Wave Guard were more accustomed to the different races and less likely to be smug or superior. If they felt anything other than general curiosity it was upfront ignorance and hatred. Ethan loved the simplicity and chose his partners and friends in the Guard accordingly. Halla was one such individual. Grew up poor, simple, uneducated. They became friends immediately and despite her filthy human blood. Ethan found himself becoming attracted to her. If it were any other time he would stick around for a little while and talk, as he often did. She was full of energy, even at this hour, and a pleasure to speak with. But he had more pressing matters and left quickly. But not before leaning down so she could kiss his cheek. Having spent nearly a season apart from his teacher. He learned to identify the absence of his spirit from the city. It was similar to the ceasing of a subtle but constant humming amidst a chaotic din. The day before, as he was flying along the coast. The sound suddenly returned and he knew without a doubt Hadrian had come home. Ethan wanted to fly out and meet him on whatever ship he sailed upon. But decided against it and to let him rest. When he wished to see his student he would give a signal, as he always had before. Instead of going home he went straight for the orphanage. Knowing Hadrian would be no where else. And as the run down but welcoming building came into view. He was the candles in Hadrian's office window and a shadowy figure pacing back and forth. Pacing, as always, Hadrian could never sit still. He smiled at things that would never change and walked briskly through the gates to Hadrian's office. He didn't bother knocking on the door or saying hello. He embraced his teacher and only after a moment of tenderness did he let go or speak. "Did the trip go well?"

[Hadrian]

Hadrian felt Ethan's presence as soon as he let himself in through the gate, one of the few people trusted with the keys. While he wanted to run downstairs and meet him in the middle, knowing now that he would not fly through the window, he tried to calm himself and wait here. The hour was early yet and he wanted the children to get their sleep, the better to stay healthy. But as soon as Ethan opened the door, he ran into him too, hugging him as tightly as he was able, knowing the Kelvic's strong body could sustain his enthusiasm. But even when Ethan spoke, he didn't let go. "No," he said, but he wasn't complaining. "I fucking missed you, stupid bird."

[Ethan]

The embrace was well needed. Zelvita was a lonely place even with constant company. The ocean was a constant reminder of his childhood. And the Kelvic never felt so alone as when he thought about his childhood. "Good or bad, at least you're safe." He took Hadrian by the hand and lead him to the sofa and sat down. "I hope you're still whole, all in one piece? Tell me everything that happened Hadrian." Still holding his friend's hands. Ethan poured Djed into his fingertips and started to draw in the swirling colors and sensations of his Aura. He didn't want to miss anything about his friend's trip, hidden emotions included.