Love Interest End Scenes (LIES): Constantine - Part II

Love Interest End Scenes (LIES): Constantine - Part II

There was no mirror in his room, but he stood tugging at the plain white gown hed been given to wear to his marking ceremony. The ceremonies themselves were normally a few hours to half a day long, depending on how large the marking would be. All initial markings started in one place; the upper back.

The gown he was wearing had no sleeves and metal clasps held the straps of the gown together at the top of his shoulders. The plain leather cord acted as a belt around his waist and he was barefooted. His pale feet were cold against the stone, but the walk from his seminary cell room to the marking altar wasnt too far, and the halls and walkways were always kept clean.

He took a deep breath. In a few hours, hed have a marking of his own signifying that he completed his initial theological studies at the seminary. Most students either selected a specific verse from the scriptures theyd studied or they could do a series of symbols, usually signifying their trifecta gods.

Constantine had selected a verse. If he joined the clergy later, it wasnt required for him to get additional markings. For example, his uncle didnt have any more than his initial symbols on his back. Some people chose to get additional markings when they officially joined. Many often got markings to signify every place theyd been assigned to serve or if they decided to serve a specific deity.

A knock came from the wooden door and he turned his head towards it.

Brother Zisos, the calm, encouraging voice of his mentor said from behind the barrier. It is time.

Constantine took another deep breath. He walked towards the door and opened it, bowing to the old, white-haired man who had guided him through the seminary the last two years. The old man looked at him with wrinkled, but proud eyes.

I am ready.

I know. The old man led him forward, his usual walk slower than normal to accommodate Constantine walking barefoot.

The marking ceremony was held in the old rotunda hall, which was built around an ancient outdoor meeting area where religious speeches were given to a seated audience. Like the High Point, the monastery on the cliff was also built on a religious complex from ancient times.

He walked through a familiar garden and courtyard to get to the rotunda hall. The white-washed structure with the blue-tile room was very bright compared to the rest of the stone buildings around it. Standing just outside the entrance were Archbishop Florakis, a bald priest would be doing his markings, a younger priest and priestess who would be attendants, and his witness, Tori.

While everyone else was in their usual vestments, Tori was wearing a long white dress with billowy sleeves and leather sandals. It was loose with thin fabric in layers. Hed seen marking ceremonies before and most people wore white clothes that were in a modern style, but Tori seemed to have researched traditional witness robes. The only personal touch seemed to be the white lace mantilla she wore, which he knew was traditionally worn for religious ceremonies in Presidio.

According to what I read, the dresses should be loose and simple, with little to no adornments. She lifted her wrists to show she wasnt wearing her bracelet or her dagger. Only a crystal and a thin chain necklace went around her neck.

She offered her arm, as the witness was to escort the one being marked down the aisle. Thank you for doing this, Tori.

It is an honor, she said in a firm voice. She looked down at his bare feet and crinkled her eyes. Barefoot to show humility, right?

He nodded.

Brother Zisos, you will follow behind the attendants. I will follow behind you and then take a seat to watch the ceremony, his mentor said as he helped the two find their place in line.

From within the hall, a bell was rung three times. After the third ring, Archbishop Florakis stepped forward, holding the text regarding marking ceremonies in front of him, with both hands.

Two steps behind him, the priest and priestess followed. Each held a white pillow. The priest had a small, dried branch, which would be burned for soot, and the priestess had a small hammer and tool with a thorn that would be used to pierce the skin. The thorn was new and there were also a few spares in case it broke or became too dull, but these were the tools used since ancient times to do markings. They were followed by the marking priest.

Constantine and Tori walked in behind them, following their steps. Each step was one ding of a light bell.

Inside the rotunda, it was well lit with white light crystals. This was in part due to the nature of the activity. Good lighting was a must for the marking priest, who went to stand behind the stone bed at the sunken altar. It was a strange set up considering how other churches and temples were done, but the altar took up a little under half the room at the bottom of about six tiers of seating.

The room itself wasnt very wide, but it was high, giving some airiness. Constantine could see his friends from Lyce sitting on the left, closest to the altar. On the right, there were a few people from seminary and his mentor. Towards the back row, there were some other guests, but from his angle, Constantine couldnt see them.

It wasnt abnormal for there to be spectators at any marking ceremony.

Archbishop Florakis circled a long, flat stone table that had been draped with cloth. It was at a suitable height for the marking priest to sit beside it and lean over to work on a person. A straw mat was all the cushioning it had.

As Constantine passed his friends, he saw Albert and JP grimacing at the sight of the thorn and held back an amused smile.

He and Tori reached the altar and Tori stepped to the side of the bed. Her chair would be brought up later, as shed sit next to him the entire time. Constantine knelt down before the steps, cupped his hands together, and bowed his head once.

There were two stations behind the bed, on either side of the altar. One held a fire bowl and the priest was burning the dried wood. The other station was where the ink was mixed together.

The room was almost silent with no bells ringing. There was only the light crackling of the fire bowl as the priest carefully burned the root.

May the gods bless you all, the Archbishop said as he held his book open in one arm and held out his hand.

We receive the blessings of the gods with humility and respect. Constantine heard the voices around him answering in somber tones.

The Archbishop began his opening prayer. It was rather short, mainly to bless the day and thank Constantine for his devotion. He then turned to the tools to bless them, asking that the pain be minimal, and the marking forever reminded Constantine of his willingness to be of service to others.nove(l)bi(n.)com

The old man then closed the book and looked at the crowd with a warm smile.

I welcome you all this morning to Constantine Zisos marking ceremony. I see many familiar faces today. Constantine is very well loved, and it is as expected. I have nothing but good things to say about this young man, he said. Constantine saw him motioning to him. For two years, he has studied diligently to better understand the teachings, and now, he wants to be of service in a rather unorthodox, but very important way. Our church is millennia old and with such an age, comes the wear and tear, and subsequent deterioration of many of our holy books, relics, even sites.

It is of great relief to know that Constantine wishes to learn more and restore these relics of ours. In the fall, he will be attending Universit du Soleils School of History and Antiquities to further his education and better prepare him for the future he wants. I pray that he continues his diligence and that the gods continue to provide him support.

But there is no replacement for the love and support of those around you. Today, we thank his witness, Victoria de Guevera, for choosing to join in a covenant to support and guide Constantine through his journey. Archbishop Florakis gave Tori a small nod and Tori bowed her head back in response. Though, I know she is not alone in her responsibility. He lifted his hands to his friends behind him and Constantine smiled softly as his heart warmed.

A small bell rang once more and the Archbishop stepped back. The priest lifted a suitably charred stick and brought it to the other station. The priestess began to prepare the ink. It was a careful process and in case there wasnt enough soot, there was extra that had been burned ahead of time.

They still had a schedule to follow.

The marking priest stood in front of Constantine. What marking will be bestowed today?

Book of Eshra, Letter seven, line 24, Constantine said. The giving hands have the largest hearts.

From the corner of his eye, he saw Tori tense a bit. She didnt move from her position, but there was a bit of surprise on her face. She mustve remembered that while hed spouted many passages around them, that was the first hed said to her years ago, after she gave him food in the forest.

No one had believed him when he said that Tori had a kind heart and would give something if one asked politely. Not demanded it, but asked. He had been right.

Lay on the bed. The marking will be placed on your upper back. The marking priest motioned for the bed and Tori came to help him stand and escort him to the stone bed. It was about waist high, therefore higher than a normal bed. Climbing on it was a bit awkward.

Tori kept her arm steady as he hoisted himself up. As he turned to lay down on his stomach, he heard her whisper.

Your heart is one of the largest I know. Congratulations, Constantine. Im proud of you and honored to be your witness. We are family now.

His eyes misted and he thanked her quietly before laying down. The bed had a hole in one end, where the head rested so he didnt have to twist his neck. Unfortunately, it was still cold stone. The cloth and straw mat did not cover that part.

Wait, we have the cushion! Sonia called out and Tori scurried away and came back.

A cushion? Archbishop Florakis raised a brow.

When we were asking about the ceremony at dinner yesterday, you said that there was nothing against preparing comfort items, Tori said as she tied together the ends of a long, narrow pillow to make a loop. It wasnt too big, and she placed it over the head hole. She placed another folded blanket around where his chest would be. It was a bit lopsided, so his body would slope comfortably. Try this. If its too hard or awkward, we can remove some of the padding.

When did you make this? Constantine couldnt help but ask as he carefully rested his head. It was actually quite comfortable.

We made it last night, Tori replied. You know Sonias a very skilled quilter.

The design is a bit rough, Sonia said in a critical voice. And the stitches arent perfect, but we were in a rush and didnt really know what to expect. All we had were the drawings Tori had gotten of the process.

I think you did a good job, Ilyana replied. Especially on such short notice. Constantine, is it comfortable?

Yes, very!

Mission accomplished, JP said.

The priestess stepped forward to unclasp the metal pieces on Constantines shoulders, then rolled down the cloth over his back, down to his waist. She then brought over another piece of cloth to cover his back, but there was a large hole in the cloth revealing his upper back.

The priest went to get Toris chair and placed it beside the head of the bed. A small wooden table was brought next to Tori. Constantine couldnt see what else was happening.

With his head resting in that hole, at best, he could see people moving around him and hear voices.

The bell rang and he heard the marking priest speak just beside him. He took a deep breath and readied himself for the procedure.

At his sides, his hands clenched into fists and he felt a small hand grasp one of them.

Relax, Tori told him. Just take deep breaths.

He wanted to nod, but didnt dare.

The room was silent, and he heard a small sound of stone hitting wood before a sharp, quick pain pierced his shoulder. He couldnt help but take in a sudden breath and grit his teeth. He didnt have time to register any differences on his skin as cool liquid touched his flesh, followed by the methodological chiseling of the tip of a tree thorn into his skin.

The rhythmic tap sounds of the stone hammer hitting the top of the tool to push the thorn in rang in his ears and it took him a while to adjust to the pain. It wasnt too bad and with Toris counting, he began to breathe evenly.

Tori, heres the cloth, he heard Ilyana say. We put water on it.

Thanks!

Suddenly, a cool sensation went around the back of his neck and around his ears. He didnt realize hed gotten so flushed. The damp cloth felt good.

Constantine, do you want water? Henrik asked.

Im fine right now, he said, trying not to move as the pricks continued. He could feel a layer of skin lift each time the thorn was removed and tried not to twitch.

If youre hungry, we have some dried lamb sticks, shredded squid chips, potato chips... Ewan named off the various snack foods hed brought and as he did, Constantine realized they were all small and easy for him to eat while laying down.

He didnt plan on eating, but he appreciated the thought. At most, hed drink water.

What are we going to play? Ilyana asked. Space knights? Forbidden Forest?

Villainess General is new. We havent tried that one yet, Henrik suggested. His Imperial Highness helped with it.

There was some silence. Is that why the difficulty rating is high? Albert asked.

I dont want to relax with a difficult game, Ilyana complained. Forbidden Forest!

All right fine, Forbidden Forest.

Constantine, you want to join in? Its standard role-play and we use our usual characters, Ilyana said.

No, not this time. Ill listen.

Wait, listen to the guide book first, JP said. Were still deciding on what to do at Tres Arcos.

Fifi and Robi will meet us there, so it should be something fun that they can do, too, Sonia said.

First and foremost, we will spend our arrival day resting at the resort, Tori said in a firm voice filled with conviction. Just rest, eat, and sleep. We can do activities the next day.

Agreed. Constantine chorused with the others.

Tres Arcos, as we know, is famous as a summer holiday destination in Sur, JP said from where he was seated. Amongst its most popular attractions, there are two sandy beaches, sailing, its seafood dishes, crafts including their famous regional tile work, and an aquarium run by the Universidad del Sur, Tres Arcos.

I can get us free into the aquarium, Tori told them. Auntie Anita is a researcher and works with the aquarium and wildlife zones. She said if we want to go, to let her know.

An aquarium? Albert let out a disappointed groan. Thats boring.

What are you talking about? Seeing sea life up close is interesting! Sonia said as she uncrossed her arms. She looked at Tori. If anyones going to the aquarium, I want to come.

Ill go. Im sure the kids will want to go, too, Ilyana agreed.

There is also a race course, JP said. Its along the coast and starts and ends at an ancient stadium called the Arena del Arcos.

Oh...we may be able to catch the riding show, Tori said.

Riding show? The twins asked at once.

Wait, I see it... The Southern Riding School sponsors a horse dancing performance once a week at the Arena del Arcos. The equestrians are affiliated with the school, including alumni and current students who practice for the summer. JP read aloud.

Tori, can you get us into that for free? Sonia asked.

I dont think so. My godfather, Uncle Rom, is an alumni, but its been a while. I dont think hes affiliated with the program.

Wait, its also put on by the Bettencourts. That name sounds familiar. Ewan spoke up. Do we know a Bettencourt?

We do know a Bettencourt! Uncle Rom is also from the Bettencourt family...Ill call him when we arrive to see if he knows anyone.

How long is that show? Ilyana asked.

Its twice a day, once in the morning and once in the afternoon. We can watch the morning show, then go to the aquarium in the afternoon. In between, well need to cross the city, so we can eat lunch there. Well need to cross the city again to get back to the resort, so we can either have dinner at the resort or in the city.

Im sure there are more places to eat in the city, Albert said, full of confidence. They began to review restaurants and Ewan had a surprising list.

How do you know all of those places? You havent been there enough to have gone to all those restaurants, Henrik said with suspicion.

Oh, the Guevera knights always tell me about food recommendations in Tres Arcos and Presidio, Ewan replied happily.

Constantine held back his laugh. He really didnt know how long the marking ceremony took. Only that every now and then, hed comment on things of interest that JP named off from a guide book, and Tori had given him water with a reed about half a dozen times. Every so often, shed pat down his neck and ears again to cool him off.

He didnt know if it was because he had grown used to the process or if his friends attempts at distracting him was working, but the pain had dulled.

Before he knew it, he felt a soft piece of cloth dabbing on his upper back. A warm, greasy cream was applied to where his markings were, and he heard Archbishop Florakis speak.

Constantine Zisos has received his markings. A bell rang behind the altar. It is done!

Applause sounded around him as the priestess carefully adjusted his robes and tied the metal fasteners back on. Tori grasped his arm and helped him sit up.

How do you feel? she asked as she took another damp cloth and patted his face. Your face is all red. Are you dizzy? Dont push yourself to move. Steady yourself first.

This one is fresh. Ilyana handed Tori a different damp cloth to switch out and Tori patted his face.

Did it hurt? Sonia looked him up and down carefully.

A bit, but now it sort of itches.

We brought you some loose shirts from Viclya that shouldn't aggravate the marked skin, Henrik said as he held up a canvas bag. We asked Brother Cassius about it, and he recommended the area be left uncovered, so cloth doesnt rub against it and cause irritation.

Off this ship? the Archbishop gasped and looked over the side with wide eyes. Do you climb down?

You can. We have a ladder and a small raft deck we lower. However, some people choose another method.

This looks like a good spot! Ewan shouted excitedly.

Captain, is this spot acceptable? Tori asked. A man in a white and purple uniform walked out on to the deck.

Yes, my lady. The crew will lower the raft and ladder at once-

Im going!

Ewan, wait! The raft isnt down yet! Several people tried to stop Ewan as he seemed to throw off his clothes, or rather just remove his shirt and pants to reveal a pair of swim pants below.

No one could stop him and Tori sighed.

To adventure! Ewan yelled and jumped off the side of the boat.

Some of the papal knights didnt seem to believe what they just saw and ran towards the edge of the ship. The imperial knights were chuckling amongst themselves, as if seeing Ewan dive into the water was perfectly natural.

That boy is brave.... the Archbishop said with some awe.

Constantine, if you want to swim, we have extra swim clothes! Henrik told him, though he didnt seem to plan to dive in. And we brought a cream for your markings so you can go in the water.

I got it from one of the crystal masters I know! Tori said. One of the knights will help you put it on.

He was tempted. The water looked so inviting, especially on a hot day.

However, his uncle was onboard, and he should keep him company. Constantine opened his mouth to reject the offer, but he caught the expectant look on his uncles face. Light eyes silently asked him: youre going, right? Youre going to play, right?

Constantines mouth turned into a smile. He looked back towards Henrik. All right....but once the raft is down.

He heard a familiar, warm, barreling laugh from his uncle. He turned to him and saw how elated he looked...and how relieved he was. Constantine cocked his head a bit, wondering why his uncle looked a bit relieved.

If youre going to change, the room we showed you is ready, JP said as he passed, already in his swim wear. He walked to the side of the ship where the knights were lowering a wooden raft that would be attached to the bottom of a rope and plank ladder.

Once it was on the water, JP and Albert began climbing down with Sonia securing on a cork vest, just in case. In the water, Ewan was already swimming in circles and diving down, his bald head glistening in the sun.

The clear, calm water, the shade of the ship, and the inviting look of all of it under the hot summer sun made Constantines heart race and he turned and ran to his cabin to change. He couldnt wait to get into the water.

When he came out after getting a thick layer of protective grease slathered over his markings, Tori was seated under a large sun umbrella with his uncle and the Archbishop speaking with a lot of hand motions. Splashing and yelling was coming from the side of the ship.

Sir Wagner and Sir Dassler are there with the others in case of an emergency, Tori told him as he passed.

Youre not going to join us?

My territory is on the coast. I can play any time, but when is the next time Ill get to chat with the Pope? she asked with a slight grin.

Dont forget, Tori is a poor swimmer! JP shouted from below. Constantine almost let out a laugh. Tori gave him a dull look and he made a small apologetic gesture before climbing down the ladder. He knelt down and asked Sonia to put some of the sea water over his marking to test out the protective film.

She started off slowly and then by the handful. Its not coming off at all, she said, a bit impressed. Can you feel any burning from the salt?

No, its still nice and cool! It was perfect!

The water was warm, but still refreshing considering how hot it was. Sonia had brought down some balls and rings made of thin, woven wooden strips. There were seven balls and two wooden rings tied to a rope floating from the raft. Each team had a ring, which was the goal, and would race to get balls and put them in the ring. The team with at least four balls in their ring won.

For this, Constantine put on a cork vest just in case he got a leg cramp. It was JP and and Ewan versus him and Albert. Sonia refereed. She stood on the raft and lifted up the light wicker basket and tossed the balls into the water. She then blew on a metal whistle, and it was a race to gather the wooden balls.

Through the splashing and yelling, Constantine barely heard the cheering coming from the deck, but he did catch his uncle laughing merrily as he watched.

In the end, JP and Ewan, both of whom were superior athletes to begin with, won. That didnt really surprise him, but Albert demanded a rematch without Ewan, so Sonia took his place. Despite Sonia wearing a cork vest, Constantine couldnt help but feel a sense of dread.

I think theyll play well together. Too well, he said as he floated next to Albert. Theyre twins. Dont they have a sort of tacit understanding? Hed seen them when they performed dressage with the horses. What if that carried over?

Albert clicked his tongue. Youre overthinking it. Besides, Sonia is only a slightly better swimmer than Tori.

JP and Sonia still won, and Ilyanas snorting laugh could be heard from the deck as she shouted that Henrik owed her an iced coffee when they went back to shore.

A few of the off duty imperial knights also played a few rounds and to make it more challenging, the rings were placed further away from each other. The men were aggressive but enjoying themselves. Ewan was invited to join them, and Constantine thought he fit into the imperial knights well.

He glanced up at the deck and noticed some of the envious looks on the papal guard. He was sure that part of the reason was because it was a hot day and they were wearing heavy, long sleeved uniforms.

They shouldve changed into regular clothes.... Constantine shook his head before jumping back into the water to check out the school of fish Sonia found.

It didnt feel as if they were in the water long at all before Tori called down to them that it was time for lunch. Constantine found himself letting out the same audible, disappointed groan as Ewan and Albert.

Dont already me! Youve been in the water for an hour! I know youre hungry now, Ewan! Tori gave Ewan a pointed look and Ewan lowered his head.

I am hungry.... He swam back to the raft, and they climbed up one by one. Tables, chairs, and various dishes were set up and Ilyana handed everyone cotton robes and towels.

As the took their seats, Constantine sat beside his uncle and couldnt remember the last time the man had looked so happy.

Uncle? He tilted his head to the side and furrowed his brows.

Im happy, my boy. His gentle voice trembled. He looked around, taking in all the faces of his friends around the table chattering away, and then met Constantines gaze. Because you are happy.

Ill come with you to the pier- Constantine snapped his mouth closed as Tori shook her head as they walked out of the restaurant. He gave her a confused look as she took a step closer.

With dinner completed, he would of course escort his friends back, but was rejected.

Were leaving tomorrow. You havent had much time to talk to your uncle, have you? she asked with a knowing look.

His heart ached a bit knowing that he was once more parting with his uncle. He knew it was coming, but part of him wanted to pretend it wasnt. Still, her reminder was done for his sake and the more time he had with his uncle, the better.

After all, after they returned to land after lunch, his uncle had hours of meetings back at the monastery, and was even late for dinner. Their time together was too short.

Constantine took a deep breath and gave her a thankful smile. Because his friends had come to see him and he had promised to take them around Karap, his first priority was to be their host. He looked towards the rest of the group and saw their encouraging looks. Sonia even tilted her head towards where his uncle was standing.

Constantines expression softened and he gave them a small, appreciative nod. Then, Ill see you all tomorrow morning.

Well have breakfast on the shore before we leave, JP told him.

Tori turned towards his uncle and gave him a small bow of her head. It was a pleasure meeting you, Your Holiness. If you do go to Horizon, please come by my delta. If you come by ship, we will await your arrival.

His uncles gentle face seemed to become gentler as he raised his hand and gave them all a quiet blessing. Safe journey to you all. I will hold you to that, Countess Guevera.

The group headed towards the pier with a group of plain clothes knights closing around them. Constantine watched them leave and it wasnt until they turned a corner and vanished from sight that his uncle called out to him.

You missed your friends, didnt you? he asked in a warm voice.

Constantines lips curled up into a sheepish smile and nodded. He stepped closer to his uncle. Ive never had so many friends my age before.

Hmm...yes, I know, his uncle said, thoughtfully. They walked slowly along the stone brick street that curved up towards the monastery. Around them, the Papal Guard had given some distance to give them privacy, but were still close. You were always an amiable boy, but Temple Mountain didnt have any children for you to play with. Allowing you to go to the town below didnt help much since the guards scared children away.

Constantine barely muffled his chuckle. They were only being cautious.

His uncle took a deep breath and let out a heavy sigh. Do you blame me, Constantine? he asked in a tired voice. I knew my position would draw attention to you. At times, dangerous attention.

Constantine shook his head. Of course not, Uncle. I knew why you were protective, and I appreciate it.

There were times when I considered giving up my seat...retiring to give you a...normal life. Or as normal life as a former Pope could give. His uncle chuckled with a small shake of his head. They both knew that even as a former Pope, there could be trouble. By remaining in his position, he could be guarded, and so could Constantine. But the years passed so quickly...before I knew it, you were applying to Lyce du Soleil.

Were you worried, Uncle?

I was as worried as any parent whose child was going away to study for several years, his uncle replied. First, there was my concern about the journey there. What if you faced danger? What if you were targeted? Coupled with your safety, I worried about how youd adapt to the environment. Youd never gone to a formal school before. I had all sorts of nightmares of you being bullied or questioning friendship.

Constantine furrowed his brows and gave his uncle a confused look. Questioning friendship?

His uncle moved his hands in front of him as he spoke. How do you know that those who wish to befriend you are doing so sincerely? Do they want to be your friend or does the fact that you are my nephew make their intentions impure? He let out a heavy breath. I was afraid that a bad experience would scar you.

There were always a few people who had a...less than sincere reason for befriending me, but in the end, I still found good friends, Constantine said. Ones who packed me gifts when I left, who set off fireworks in the bay when they passed by just to call out to me and tell me they were thinking of me....

He felt a bit of pressure at the bridge of his nose recalling that night he watched the dark sky lit up. His uncle put on a playful expression. I heard about that...I thought it was an accident?

Constantine laughed. Yes, yes, he said as he wiped his eyes. They didnt know how that happened.

His uncle chuckled. You wrote about them, and I had prayed that they were sincere to you. When you told me they were coming not only to your ceremony, but to pick you up to travel around Soleil for the summer, my heart eased. I had been worried that perhaps they forgot about you.

That fear stayed with me, too, Uncle. Constantine didnt want to admit it, but there were days when he wondered if theyd remember him. After all, theyd only been close to him for about a year, as their first year was rather distant. Even then, it wasnt until the end of their second year that he really felt that he was part of the group.

He was ashamed to find out that theyd been treating him sincerely earlier than that. They had often thought of him when they made plans. Sometimes, they assumed he was going with them without even asking, as he was so integrated into their lives.

Every time the feelings of doubt of friendship came in, hed look at the painting of his friends, drape the quilt Sonia made around him, and remind himself that no matter what the future held, the past had been more than generous.

And then, hed get fireworks and gossip from Archbishop Florakis telling him that they were planning to bring him with them on their summer trip around Soleil.

I watched them yesterday, at your marking ceremony, his uncle said with a wistful gaze. They huddled as close to you as possible, including you in their decision making. The Countess even wiped your sweat and gave you a drink. They didnt seem at all planning on leaving.

Solidarity, Ilyana says. Constantine smiled.

Yes...and Ive never seen you so carefree as when you were in the water, desperately grabbing at balls! He laughed with eyes filled with mirth. Youre usually so calm, I didnt expect you to dunk poor Ewans head into the water just to steal one of the balls in their ring.

Constantine laughed. Hes hardly poor Ewan if he can lift me out of the water. I shouldve known we didnt stand a chance.

You found good friends, Constantine. This gives me some relief...although...I was a bit envious. I was hoping youd visit Temple Mountain to see me before you returned to Horizon, his uncle said with a slight smug look.

Constantine flushed. Im sorry, Uncle! I was so caught up-

Dont be sorry! His uncle laughed and lifted a hand to put on his forearm. Do you know how long Ive waited to see you with a group of friends, having fun and enjoying life in your youth? Ive always feared that because I brought you with me, I put you in a position where youd lose that carefree innocence of youth. You were always a sensible, obedient boy, and while I was thankful, I was also worried that you could not enjoy life because youd become so restrained.

Constantine lowered his eyes. Uncle, I have always been grateful for the care and love youve given me. Ive never once regretted being raised at Temple Mountain.

But I want you to see more. Experience more. Learn more. It is an integral part of our humanity to be curious. His uncle lifted his head and looked up at the night sky. Where they were, with all the street lights, they couldnt see the stars, but he knew that was what his uncle was looking at. I wanted you to be free to make your own decisions, Constantine. He looked at his nephew. You may tell me honestly, do you really want to join the clergy?

Constantine drew his head back. He didnt expect his uncle to ask so suddenly. Not right now. That was his honest answer. But I plan to.

Should your plans change, my boy, do not think that I will be angry or disappointed. His uncle lifted his hand and cupped the side of his head. As long as you are healthy. As long as you are safe. As long as you are happy..., I can face your mother when I see her.

Constantines eyes reddened. He lowered them and nodded his head. He knew how much his uncle struggled to raise him. Not that there was a monetary issue or lack of food or shelter, or anything, but it was difficult for the highest ranked member of the church to have time to properly raise a little boy. Especially when they did not have blood relations to support them.

His uncle had come to their plague-ravaged village against the voices of the people around him to find Constantine. Hed told people it was a miracle that Constantine was alive. Hed tried his best to love and support him, no matter how exhausted he was.

The Pope is a father to guide the believers, and you have done that to the best of your ability. I know this, Constantine told him. But as my uncle, you have been my father. The greatest father I could ask for. And I am thankful for that every day of my life.

His Uncle's eyes glistened over. I cannot always be with you now that you are an adult, but I am confident that you will surround yourself with good people and that you will do good where you go.

Thank you, Uncle.

In the morning, let us do a prayer for your parents.

Yes, Uncle.

Large hands that seemed more wrinkled than he remembered, cupped his head, and brought it down. For a moment, Constantine felt his heart clench. Since when was he taller than his uncle?

The man who could've passed as a grandfather now kissed the top of his head before stroking his hair back. My boy, my heart is full, and my mind is at ease, he said in a choked voice. I am so proud of you, Constantine.

Theyd talked for some time in an old, secluded courtyard, discussing his plans for the future, his living accommodations while in Horizon, and if hed considered field studies arrangements, which was common in large research universities like Universit. Students could try to apply for positions either domestically or internationally, with an affiliated facility or other research institution to do practical studies in a different location.

Constantine had time to decide. He hadnt started his first year yet, he wanted to get a taste of what to expect before considering moving to do field work, though the thought was very tempting.

Dawn began early in the summer, and it was only when the inky darkness of the sky began to lighten that his uncle urgently sent him to rest. He had to meet his friends in a few hours.

His uncle himself had to return to Temple Mountain. Hed already stayed a day longer than planned. They had to do their good-byes there.

Constantine had embraced his uncle, and only relative, tight.

I will discuss with His Imperial Highness about security for your visit to Horizon, Constantine told him.

His uncle nodded. Yes, and discuss with Countess Guevera and Mr. Skuldsen about those comcry cases that make noise and vibrate. I am interested in that.

Constantine nodded and stood at the threshold of his door, watching his uncle leave.

Now that he looked at him, his uncle had aged. His hair was now whiter and there were wrinkles on his face.

Time does move fast. He took a deep breath and walked back inside to spend his last night in a cell where hed spent every night for the last two years.

He sat on the edge of his bed and looked across the small room, at the painting.

In the morning, hed take it down and fold the quilt, put them in his chest, and have it brought down to the pier, not to be opened until they reached Horizon. Despite knowing this, a smile appeared on his face, remembering Ewans excited words while they were on the ship.

To adventure!

The summer was only beginning, as was the rest of his life.