Yardie (prime)/Vignette: An Illuminating Conversation
“Elanthia’s on fire, Lumi.”
Less than two years ago, Iskandr, Yardie’s Vaalorian brother, sent the Faendryl eastward to learn about the customs of the elves in the Shining City and behind the walls of Ta’Vaalor. In his studies, he met Illumiada, the elf from Ta’Illistim who now resided in the oasis of freedom known as Kraken’s Fall. Upon their first encounter, she showed no prejudice, made no judgments, and regarded the Faendryl newcomer with kindness and hospitality. So it surprised him to learn years later when she made the Fall her home, that her moniker given by friends and family was “the Murder Nurse.” At first glance, one would think she couldn’t break a bone until he learned about her empathic ability, and it all made sense.
As they rested at the Wandering Eye Market of Kraken’s Fall, Yardie puffed from his cigar and glanced at the docks to the south. Orders from the dockworkers signaled the arrival of another ship, local commerce considering the sun’s light signaling afternoon. “When we last spoke, you wanted to return to the cities.” Illumiada nodded, and Yardie continued. “Two assassinations, a Vaalorian withdrawal, rogue sorcerers, and the Barony was expanding closer to Wehnimer’s Landing. Do you still debate going back?”
“That crossroads remains, unfortunately,” Illumiada said. Her honey-blonde hair flowed like a curtain as she nodded, her gaze shifting to the palm trees. The light glinted off the diamond stud on her left nostril. “It’s still a decision I take into consideration..”
Yardie nodded, drinking in the lavish trees tarping away the warm sun, insulting them with crisp, cool air. “That’s not always a bad thing.” The Panicky Phantom had seen his share of conflict in the last few months. It was a cold winter in a cold war, and Kraken’s Fall seemed the open refuge for warmth and salvation. “It’s hard to help people while remaining here. I’m just not sure where to begin or whether to leave.”
Lumi’s delicately arched eyebrows furrowed with her brow. “Neither am I.” A soft pink glow emanated from the acorn amulet hanging from Illumiada's neck. “I suppose aiding the citizens in the Atoll, keeping them safe from bandits and tritons is a start.”
“You just like when the children call you Auntie Lumi,” Yardie joked with a grin.
She nodded, laughing with saccharine mirth. Yardie had seen the rescues, the endearing quality, that ability to connect on an emotional level that made her such a talented empath. And yet, when those green eyes blazed with determination, she fulfilled that Murder Nurse nickname, especially when it came to the safety of children. In matters of heart and spirit, Illumiada shone brighter than most. “If the troubles come here, I’ll be ready.”
Yardie took a sip of coconut water. “Hopefully, it never arrives.”
“Me too,” she confessed. “The peace found here is like no other. But maybe we should bring some of that inland.”
It was Yardie’s turn to nod ruefully. “I have every ability to leave the troubles behind. Let others fend for themselves out there and thrive here.” He traced a line with the toe of his boot. “And yet, the worst is yet to come, and I can’t stay away for long.” He sucked his ivory teeth. “I am such a strange Faendryl.”
“Unique,” Illumiada corrected as she rose. She smoothed over her crisp contour-hugging white cotton shirt, brushed her matching leggings, and readied her white elesine runestaff sling fastened with pink-and-white grosgrain ribbons. “Helping others, whoever they might be, is always worthwhile.” She waved at her Faendryl friend. “I’m off to the Temple to help locate a missing child. Goodbye, Friend Yardie!”
Yardie waved and smiled slightly. “Goodbye, Friend Lumi.”
((Much thanks and praise goes to the lovely Illumiada, who allowed me to write and share the thoughts and feelings of a native from the Fall's view of these recent world events. Much love.))