The Call of Dust by M R Saint

Author:M R Saint [Saint, M R]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781734014204
Publisher: Liquid Black Press
Published: 2019-11-19T22:00:00+00:00

8

Casting Stones

They sat in silence, the longboat quickly pulling further from the shores of the Island. The cascading water from the oars, as they lifted from the sea, made the only sound, the experienced sailors not slapping the water as they rowed. Khiron sat at the bow, looking back upon the Arat.

She hadn't spoken much since the previous evening. She looked thoughtful, and Khiron wondered if somehow seeing the Suten had changed her. She had entered the craft first and sat near the stern, and now she stared out towards the great door in the mountain.

With reticence, they had walked up to the imposing sight at first light. The Nnesutee had assured them that they were alone, but the feeling of being watched never fully lifted. Scenes of nature at balance stood in relief across the span of the door, the craftsmanship beyond telling. The Arat touched the images, running her hand over the shapes as she walked. Khiron also touched the dark metal and was surprised to find it warm.

The Nnesutee had walked to the shore while they lingered near the door. He sat wrapped in his cloaks, his face hidden in the depths of its cowls, facing the supple waves, just as he was doing now on the longboat.

His walking staff lay across his lap and arms nestled within the folds of his sleeves, the blind man sat towards the West. Khiron wondered how long he would stay with them, or if he would stay at all. Surprisingly, he had begun to feel comfortable with the man around.

No questions were asked when the sailors saw the Nnesutee with them. They helped the ageless man onto the longboat and set out for the ship without a word.

The journey was quick. The Captain greeted them with warm tea and cider as they came aboard, the twin suns standing at their apex. “I am glad that you all are well.” He glanced at the Nnesutee, who was being assisted onto the deck. “We have alternate quarters for a single occupant. I will have it prepared immediately.”

“That won't be necessary,” the Nnesutee said as he approached. “A dry place on deck will be fine.”

“Nonsense, we would never allow such a thing on the Sea Blade. It would sully my reputation.” The Captain motioned to one of the sailors with a quick flip of his head. “Prepare the meditation cabin for our new guest.”

The Nnesutee bowed deeply. “Thank you, Captain. My eyes can't use the sunlight anymore, but I can still feel its caress. The moonlight has a different feel, but both are packed with memories that comfort my soul. While you tidy the cabin, please allow space for me on the deck, as well. Other than a good bath, I would consider this deck a treasure.”

The Captain rested a hand on his shoulder. “I’ll be happy to do so. One of my crew will guide you to it after we get underway. Now, we’ve prepared hot baths for your friends while on our way to the Island and have more than enough water to accommodate you.

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