"Will it take us long to get there?"
"I don't think so, it's only a couple of hours' ride and we're already more than halfway there," Rudd replied.
Right now there are four of us in the carriage: Saraa, Rudd, Mom and me. Rudd is next to me, mom and Saraa in the seats in front of me.
A few days after my birthday party, Mom brought up the idea she had had in mind for some time: the idea of moving to Ahstel. Without hesitation I supported her decision. The benefits far outweighed the losses, so I made the more rational decision. I am now on my way to my new home.
It's been two years since Amos visited us, what is he doing? I'm sure I'll see him soon, I'll have some explaining to do.
"By the way, what is our new home like, Mom?" I asked.
Mom was lost in thought. She either ignored me completely, or she didn't hear me. Saraa and I were surprised by her current state, I have never seen her like this.
"Lili," Saraa said after touching her right shoulder, "Ray asked you a question."
"I'm sorry, I was thinking about the things I have to do when we get there," Mom replied with a completely serious tone of voice.
Her look is not the same as always, the characteristic sparkle in her eyes is gone. Was it a good idea to come all this way? I can't help but wonder.
"Mom, if you're not well we can come back another day. We can delay the move."
"Don't worry, Ray. I'm fine and I'll be fine," Mom replied forcing a smile.
I won't push it, staying by your side is the best option. Let's change the subject.
"Saraa, what are those monsters pulling the carriage?"
They are wolves, I know perfectly well but I've never seen such big ones.
"They are mountain wolves. They have been with us for many centuries, we have tamed them to help us with certain tasks. Don't get too close to them, if you don't own them they won't pay much attention to you."
A few seconds are lost in the air and....
"Can I have..." I timidly tried to ask.
"No!"
All three repeat the same word in unison.
□ □ □
"It's today, isn't it?"
"Yes, it is today, Amos."
I can't calm down, my hands are shaking and for some reason it's very hot today.
"We live in the mountains, it's not hot. You're just nervous," Varis said.
"Don't guess my thoughts! Tell me what to do so she won't kill me, Varis."
"Lilith won't kill you, she'll just ignore you for the rest of your life, your nephew will do the same and Saraa needn't say it. Try Rudd, he'll forgive you for sure."
"Why am I asking you for advice?"
"Because there is only me in the room," Varis replied with total indifference, and reason.
This is a waste of time.
"Let it be what God wills!"
"God has no will over our actions..."
"Shut up!"
After that scream, I leave the room.
It's been two years since my last visit. Things got complicated around here, so I focused all my attention on resolving the internal disputes and then taking the time to get through it, but everything turned out differently than I had planned.
It's been two days since I heard the news that they were moving here. I knew they were going to do it, but not the exact date. Everything is a mess, I don't know what excuse to give to be forgiven, if forgiveness is still an option.
I continue on my way until I don't need to go any further, there they are. Three women and a little boy are at the entrance of the palace with their luggage, observing and admiring the place.
On one side, two girls in maid costumes are discussing trivia.
"Wow, this is huge, it's bigger than our house."
"It's a palace, what did you expect?"
"Saraa, the point I wanted to make was not that but..."
And on the other side, a woman in a beautiful white dress and a boy who is a miniature version of her.
"What do you think, do you like it?" Lilith asked Ray.
"It's amazing!" Ray replied dumbfounded at the majesty of the palace.
He ran down the stairs to greet them.
"Lilith, Ray... Welcome to your new home!"
I give them a warm welcome with open arms, or so I try to. Their faces show only confusion.
"Who is it?" Ray asked.
"No idea, I think he's a palace servant," Lilith replied. "I'm sure he'll be in charge of carrying our luggage, right?"
I just nod my head.
"Okay, come on Ray."
Lilith takes his hand and they go up the stairs.
My nephew didn't recognize me and Lilith treats me like a servant. It's better than I had imagined.
"Thanks for the welcome, Uncle Amos!" Ray said from the top step with a smile.
"Talk to you later, Amos," Lilith added still climbing the stairs.
"It will be a pleasure to serve you, Amos," Saraa commented before giving a slight bow. "Should any need arise, seek me out and I will assist you."
"A pleasure to share a house, Amos. It will be fun," Rudd added as he gave me small slaps on the back.
A few seconds later, they both leave in Lilith's direction.
I can only smile.
Today is day one of a new phase.
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