Ancient Things We Hold

Chapter 27

Then Came Autumn

—-

Dear Mother and Father

Although we parted on bad terms, I thought you would at least like to know that all is well. Even though you are not my real parents, you raised me and I thus hope you still care for me somewhat as I do for you despite the anger between us. I hope our time apart has diffused this anger a little so that you can try to forgive me, though I know what I did was selfish, while your lack of actions to stop the violence still bitters me greatly. Nonetheless, recently I have decided to make a new start and it seemed here would be a good place to form that.

Is Alfred well? I know he said he wanted to marry Lady Faeryn, but I still worry for him. Furthermore, is she well? The guilt I feel for abandoning her despite your promise still sits inside me sometimes, so all I can do is hope she is happy. Alfred was always good so doubtless he is treating her well. That is at least some comfort.

Would you please tell everyone I miss them and love them dearly? Tell Ariel I think of her all the time and hold her close to my heart. You are all in my prayers- Cwen, Godric, Brant, Mercia, Lysa and Alfred. I still consider you my siblings and hope you think the same of me, no matter if our parting was hostile.

Now I must tell you that, despite the pogrom, Hodaya and one of her sisters survived. It was a miracle when we found each other. We married under a canopy and the three of us are living at the end of the earth in small rooms in a dishevelled street. Although times are hard, memories are haunting and rest is difficult to come by, we are happy now. It took some time, but I believe we have found peace amongst the horror.

This peace is largely due to recent events. Three months ago, Hodaya gave birth to two children. We now have a son and a daughter, called Shmuel and Mariyam. She was made ill by this experience and we're not sure whether she will be able to have anymore children. However, they truly are the best of our lives and we couldn't ask for anything more, except the assurance that you are all fine.

I hope you forgive me. I hope you no longer feel contempt towards me for being Jewish, or for causing you all so much trouble.

Yours lovingly
Aldwyn

Ps I am trusting you enough to enclose our address if you should like to reply. I believe our ties are tethered enough for you not to try to find me.

***

Dear Aldwyn

Your peace is a comfort to us.

Alfred and Lady Faeryn are living in the capital still. From what we have heard, their marriage is successful. I believe she was just relieved to have someone else who was as kind to her, so your abandonment has not embittered her. However, they are unfortunately still not blessed with children as you are. I hope your wife recovers speedily and that your children remain healthy.

Your father returned to Carreg Llwyd from the King's side five months ago. His time there was difficult, as he had to pay penance by performing knight service and swearing another oath of loyalty to secure his position as Lord of the Northwest. However, what's done is done. Time has passed and our House is safe once more.

The only other news I have to tell you is that Mercia followed you a few weeks ago by running away. We're fairly sure she has gone to the capital to meet Brant so that she can train to fight with him. This occurred after we told her of our plans to secure her a match. Like you, she disagreed. Hopefully Brant will have the sense to return her to us.