Tales from the End of the Pier by Gee Rae

Author:Gee, Rae [Gee, Rae]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2014-03-03T23:00:00+00:00

~~~ The End ~~~

THE NIGHT BEFORE WINTERMASS

A chill swept in from the ocean, wrapping around peoples legs and lifting the hems of furs, cloaks, and coats. Yet no one seemed to notice, nor care, for the most magical time of the year was upon them all.

Wintermass.

It was the time of the year when everyone put their cares behind them. When the hatred stopped and, for a few glorious days, peace and love appeared to hang over the world.

A clear sky hung above the city of Svenfur, stars twinkling across the velveteen night. Already a frost was beginning to brush everything with her icy fingers. Yet, along the promenade, West Road, and pier was the most magical market anyone had ever seen. Stalls and fairground rides lined every possible space. Music tinkled from a number of different stages, while the smells of freshly cooked foods filled the air. At the heart of it, sitting beside the entrance to the pier, was the centerpiece of the entire market.

Standing as tall as the buildings around it, the Wintermass carousel was decked in bright lights. Garlands of fir tree, dotted with lights and decorations, danced around the roof of the carousel while the music of a full orchestra sang from its heart. Curls of gray smoke billowed from its chimney and were whisked away by the wind.

But that was not what made the carousel so spectacular.

What made it beautiful and unique were the animals that adorned its four platforms. Standing before the ride, Cedo stared at it, unsure of where to look first.

Like any normal carousel, the horses rode up and down their gilded poles. Yet their limbs were jointed, legs stretching and curling while they tossed their heads, their manes streaming behind them. Real saddles sat on their backs and bridles were looped around their heads. Everyone who rode it appeared to be in love with the beautiful carousel.

Erus stood beside him. “So what do you think?”

Looking at his Master, Cedo grinned. “It is amazing and an incredible creation! I do believe you have outdone yourself.”

Erus smiled under the bright lights of the carousel. Cedo's approval obviously warmed the weapons designer. “I am glad. I trust you will be riding?”

“Of course! I wish to take several rides.” Still grinning, Cedo pressed himself against the redhead. “Besides, I shall have to give a fair and accurate review of it.”

Cedo looked through the crowds for Billy. The blond man had disappeared moments before, his hand raised in greeting to someone he had seen in the throngs of people. No doubt Billy was catching up with old friends, and Cedo could not blame him. Wintermass was the perfect time for such encounters and a chance to pass on the greetings of the season. Earlier in the day, they had paid a visit to his mother and left gifts and cards for herself and Billy's sisters. It had been good to see her. Even in what seemed like the depths of poverty, she had turned the small house into a picture of Wintermass joy.

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