Serene Of The Sea

15. Fallen

Wide awake, under the crystal stars of the place I could only half belong. I knew I wouldn't sleep, so I hadn't tried.
The tears had run freely until there was nothing more to give. I had poured out all my emotion in hot salty tears that left faint tracks on my now dry cheeks.
I had no belongings except for the single skystone, which I placed in the deep pocket of my dress. So I set to tidying my appearance, until I could fool myself into looking a version of normal. I tried on a smile in the mirror, but no matter how hard I forced it, I couldn't make it reach my desolate eyes.
Casting my gaze over the beautiful room I might have called home, I tried to memorise it. The plan was to leave before anyone woke up, avoiding any awkwardness.
They could go back to normal as a wholesome family and I would find some form of existence where I was wanted.
Don't drag it out.
My breath hitched in my throat as the hole in my chest seemed to suck in what was left of my happiness. Walking out of the house on numb legs, I did my best not to let my eyes wander towards Kai's room, for fear of seeing him.
Then I was gone, drifting down the steps in a daze. I had to concentrate not to fall in the dim shade if silver, finding myself all alone on the streets of Senima, not a sound to acompany me. If I hadn't felt so lost already, it would have made me anxious, but I forced my legs on, ignoring my senses.
My feet were finally getting used to the feel of the cobble, hardening with use.
I looked at the dark buildings I passed, outlined in silver, ethereal in their slumber.
The Main Street was like a ghost town, lined with glass fronted shops, set into the domes. Clearly theiving wasn't something they worried about here, as the doors were only closed by curtains still, all the wares on show. As I passed the perfumery, a variety of fragrances wafted into my nostrils, making me sneeze. Without any reason to rush, I let myself meander, curiosity getting the better of me.
There was a tiny restaurant, with lovely little clam shaped tables and decorated chairs. Its kitchen was open plan for the customers to watch their food being prepared.
Next door was a flower stall, the colours hidden with the night, but I could tell it would have been beautiful in the day time. Even the cafe's had left their chairs and machines out ready for the morning.
When I reached the royal palace square I had managed to walk the night away.
My senses called for the skystones to change, I bravely started the call, my voice ringing out through the city, "They all told me forever, but everything must change. Can you tell me when it's over? Can we avoid the pain? Gotta love the silent promise, even if it never came. Coz you know I love the prayers, and you love to blame.
Now the flames growing restless, think we took this way to far. And its leaving me breathless, no longer where you are. And I'm left here with my heartache, trying not to turn insane. I release you from your promise, go and live again....." The city seemed to answer to me with their enthralling melodies. Some seemed to reach out to me in understanding. Then the light bathed me in its warming tone, bringing colour back to the city, silencing my odd reverie.
Standing in the palace square, I was trying to convince myself to walk in. The merman statue watching me with condescending blank eyes.
"I should have known it was you."
I turned to find Aella with crossed arms and a face that could kill.
"What?" I forced my expressions away from revealing my state of mind.
Aella's burgundy eyes regarded me without emotion, "You have caused a ruckus in the palace. The Siren with a worded song beginning the call. Revolutionary!" She mimicked her fathers voice, "I expect you'll cause some conversations in the city today," Rolling her eyes with attitude she glared at me, "You being here must mean you've decided to stay with us in the palace. A stupid decision. But mother knew you would. They've already got a guest room for you and set aside one of the courtyards for training. I'll be back later as I've been forced to take charge of your sessions. The joy," She turned on her heel with attitude and disappeared into the morning rush.
I dragged my sorry self into the throne room after Aella's sobering words. Aldric and Athena both stood at my approach.
Athena ran down, pulling me into a vice like hug, "Welcome home," She chirpped with forced tenderness, "You made the right decision. Now we can help you hone your skills under our own roof. Ophelie will show you to your room," She clapped, causing a servant girl to come running.