Erin and Melody Aetharyn were two of the few children born into the family to parents who were both members of the First House. Once upon a time Erin and her twin sister were eternally causing mischief. They did everything together, and usually these things got them in no end of trouble. These two got themselves into more time outs and spankings than any children in the History of the Fifth House.
A year and a half ago the twin sisters turned five. The night before the big day their parents finally managed to get the two to sleep through their anticipation by giving them one present early. Each got a brand new stuffed rabbit. They dreamed of the other presents they would get and the fun they would have. With an entire House dedicated to entertainment, the childrens' birthdays had always been quite an event. Erin was the first to roll out of bed that morning, bounding out the door to go wake mom and Dad. Much to the child's delight, some people were already awake, right in front of her parents' door. In fact, five people were awake. The House Leaders. The little girl smiled widely when Amiara turned to her, but the elf's eyes were brimming with tears. "Don't cry, auntie! You can come to my party if you want to." And after a moment's thought she gave a bigger smile and added, "but you gotta bring a present."
Amiara had burst into tears then, and turned away from the girl to try and hide it, sobs muffled against Aredhel's shoulder as he was forced to lead her from the room. By now Erin was worried about her aunt, wide eyes held questioningly to the others and ears strained to hear what they were whispering about. Myarallis was the one to take her aside and explain in soothing tones that her mama and daddy wouldn't be here for this birthday. Both had disappeared without a trace, and even the best efforts of the Aetharyns have not been able to locate them. Erin and Melody spent that birthday crying. And there have been no more parties, though now both girls are eight years old. The tears have dried for the most part. Melody is playing with the other children again and is still outgoing and friendly. Erin follows her everywhere, but she hasn't been the same since the loss of her parents. She clasps a worn rabbit to her chest, and speaks only to the toy, often with stories of games they used to play with their parents.
"It's ok, Bunny. Don't cry. When mommy and daddy come home everything will be alright. They won't be long because I'm daddy's baby. You can be my baby. You're part of the family now. Look at Melody, Bunny. Doesn't she sing pretty? I bet mommy would like to hear her when she gets back, don't you think?" |
