The House of Elestryll Du'laine

[Elestryll Du'laine]

Brightening 7, Cycle 2 of Immanis
Season of Spring, Era II
Era XI Post Fractum

It had been nearly four cycles since she had been taken from him. Nearly four cycles since he had left his room, or changed his clothes or taken a bath. For nearly four cycles all he had done was lie on his bed and stare at the ceiling. But, now it was time to do something.
First would be to get something to eat. He had eaten very little since his self exhile into his room. The servants would leave his food by his door, but, he ate only enough to survive. Second would be to dismiss all of the servants. He no longer needed their services. They were all good workers, and with a letter of recommendation he would write, should not have any difficulties with finding new employment.
He quietly made his way from his room downstairs, where the servants gathered around him, concern evident on their faces. "I shall be fine. I shall be fine," he reassured them. Then, with a faint grin, he added "Though I find I am unusually hungry today." With broad smiles, the servants set to fixing their master something to eat.
He finished his meal with a final gulp of wine, then called the servants to him. Giving each a sincere gaze, he told them "You have all been valued members of this household. And I shall miss you. But, I fear I no longer have need of your services, my friends. I shall write each of you a letter of recommendation to help you in your search for new employment. I have been honoured to be served by such loyal retainers as you." Looks of sadness and of confusion passed over each of the servants as their now former master stood and made his way back up the stairs. A candlemark later he returned and with an embrace presented each with a letter. When the last of the servants had left, he began drawing up a bath. He needed one.
After his bath, he dressed himself in clean clothes. He would get out of the house this brightening and walk. Perhaps that would begin the healing process his soul so desperately needed. Donning his cloak, he walked out the door.
The sun shown brightly on Elestryll Du'laine, as if give him new life. He smiled faintly as he drew his cloak tighter to block the cool breeze of spring. Closing the door, he started down the street.