Emerali: A War Song Tapestry

Chapter 9

A fanfare of joyous music jarred Emerali out of her thoughts.

"Hey, what are we standing so serious and thoughtful for?" said Thori. "Thank Aion all is peaceful at present; let's enjoy the celebration! We can think about wars and legions later. I have gifts for you both." She handed the parcels to Devaen and Emerali.

"Yeah, me, too," Devaen said. Here he produced a small box and handed it to Emerali and, from a spot leaning against the wall, a long, carefully wrapped item and gave it to Thori.

"Wow, what's this?" asked Thori, laughing. She unwrapped the item and gasped. It was a magnificently crafted staff, curiously carved and finished with a glowing orb. "It's gorgeous! I had no idea you were so talented, Devaen!"

"Well, thanks. I'm a multi-faceted Daeva," Devaen replied, chuckling. "Wait 'til you see what I'm working on now: a special belt that uses Aether gems to create an Aetheric field with just enough energy to allow temporary flight."

"Wow! I can't wait to see that!" exclaimed Thori.

"Me neither. It sounds amazing!" Emerali then opened her gift. She stood gaping slightly. Her present was beautiful platinum ring with filigree design, set with brilliant lazuli, little moonstones on either side of it. She was suddenly reminded of Thori's words regarding Devaen. She stood analyzing the ring thoughtfully.

Devaen's brow furrowed. "Don't you like it?"

Emerali looked up at him and smiled. "No, I love it. It's beautiful! Thank you." She put it on. "Blue... it's my favorite color."

"I know," Devaen said, almost wistfully. Brightening again, he said, "You always wore it, so it wasn't hard to remember. Anyway, it's functional jewelry. It's imbued with Aether to increase natural mana production and aid you in defense."

Thori threw Emerali a sideways glance and smiled slightly. "I'm gonna go store this in the warehouse 'til it's time to go home."

"I'll do the same," Devaen said. "Thanks for the gifts, girls; I'll open them when I get home."

While they were absent, Emerali fell deep into thought. Devaen seemed to remember minute details about her. Could Devaen really be harboring concealed feelings for her? More importantly, why did it suddenly matter so much to her?

At that moment, the band struck up a lively tune. "All right, ladies and gentlemen, grab a partner and get out on the dance floor! It's cold, let's get that blood flowing," the announcer called cheerily. Thori and Devaen reappeared.

"The dancing's started!" said Thori. She stepped out to join the crowd. "C'mon!"

Cullis, who had been threading his way through the people, came up beside her. "Will you honor me with a dance, Thori?"

Surprised, Thori laughed. "Sure!" She danced away with him joyfully.

Devaen chuckled. "I think Thori may have a suitor there."

"It certainly looks that way." Emerali laughed and turned to head over to the food tables.

"Wait, Emerali. How about a dance, eh?" asked Devaen.

"Oh, no. I don't dance."

"What? Listen, I knew you for three Soloriuses. You may weave a great song, but you can really cut a rug. It'll come back to you. C'mon." Devaen took her hand and led her out to the dance floor.

At first Emerali was hesitant and uptight, but as Devaen had reassured her, the movements began to come naturally. It was the most fun she had had since she her second ascension. She laughed merrily. When it was over, though winded, she felt elated.