Of Memory and Loss: Part VIII

"In the months to come, the world slowly started to wither into an endless twilight and would eventually become a barren wasteland. I stayed and helped as much as I could for a time, but if I was going to die, I wanted to be where I had once called home. So, I returned here to wait for the end. The world will die in time and though I tell you these things knowing that fact, you may ask 'Why? Is it not a waste of time then?'

"I say to that, no. It is not a waste to place down the way things were and are now. Perhaps, in time, this world will live again. I hope it is so. Or perhaps some visitor from a realm other than ours will visit here. If or when they do, at least the history of all our people will live on and the reason for our end may help guide others away from that end. Now good gentlemen, I have nothing further to tell you..."

Cian coughed and looked tired to the historians. The two had questions they wanted answered as well, but were not voiced as Cian finalized his position on the matter.

"Natia will make sure you have provisions enough for your return trip and then escort you out. I do thank you for coming and hope you have a safe return home."

With all being said, Cian rose with Natia's help and made his way out of the library. Natia then helped Jacob and Garret gather the supplies promised and sent on their way. As they walked away, the two men were silent, not understanding why they were being sent away so abruptly, but the information they had already gained was incredible. Thus, with no words being spoken, both men boarded the carriage used to make the initial trip in turn and set off on their return voyage. Cian stood and watched them leave from an upstairs window and when they had gone out of sight, he lay down on his bed. His mind was really no more at peace now than it had been those many years ago, but his heart was. As he thought back on his childhood, his heart did finally rest.

* * * * * * * * *
The image of his mother appeared out of the darkness. Rahsinia's face shrouded by blurred, muted light.

* * * * * * * * *
Cian sat straight up in bed, sweat beading heavily over his body, his childish features contorted by fright so much that he appeared almost as a different person. After considerable minutes of frantic searching to remember where he was, he stood and stayed himself just long enough to make sure he could remain standing. Then, like a shot of light piercing the dark, he bolted out of his room in Castle Amber and through the corridors until he could find Corwin. As his search ended with finding his mentor in the library, he skidded to a stop eyes large and voice trying to mouth words that would not come just yet.