Spirits Arrive in Athrug|Athrug

[Devon]

Christian snuck off quietly to his room while the Spirit Night festivities were going on in Athrug. Priests and followers had gathered this year at the temple of Taed to meet with their dead brethren and loved ones. The high priest made it back to his room and closed the door behind him, collapsing into a chair next to his bed. He waited patiently hoping his yearly visitor would once again grace him with her presence.

[Kender Bard]

It did not take long before Thessa appeared, manifesting in a sitting position on the edge of his bed, a melancholy smile on her face. "Hello again, Christian," she greeted him.

[Devon]

Christian smiled back and seemed to gain a bit more energy than he had a few moments ago. Inching closer to Thessa he responded, "Nice to see you again this year Thessa. How are things beyond the Veil?"

[Kender Bard]

"Peaceful," Thessa replied with a smile. "Taed has been a trifle restless from time to time, but that's to be expected. It does not affect his children and we enjoy our afterlife still. Though I do miss you." She reached out, her ghostly hand hovering over his as though touching it. "Taed is content with Athrug. You've done well."

[Devon]

Christian nodded and replied, "I'm glad both you and Taed think so Thessa. I've been wondering lately how much longer I can do this though. Will I be old and gray before I finally step down? Where does a man go to retire after being the High Priest of Taed? Does he just fade away quietly in the temple?"

[Kender Bard]

"This is a lifelong duty," Thessa replied. "If you feel you cannot or will not be able to continue in this capacity, though, you do what I did with you - pick another and make them the high priest. However, it was a bit rushed with us. I think you should select someone promising and then train them before making that transition."

[Devon]

"That isn't what I mean Thessa," Christian said. "I can last till I'm old, but I wonder sometimes if Taed is truly satisfied with the work I've done here. You are right though, I think it is time I find someone young to train up until the time where I step down. Any suggestions?"

[Kender Bard]

"No, not unless you want to range far away," Thessa remarked. "There is a young man who Taed is fond of in Mentis, but that man is a dual priest and wouldn't be satisfactory for a high priest unless he gave up Thuoth - which I doubt he will. There is another man who would be an interesting choice but who holds little love for Taed himself. No, I'm afraid you'll have to find your own candidate."

She tilted her head a little and asked, "And why do you think that Taed isn't completely satisfied with your work? You did quite a bit. He is an understanding Lord - you needn't perform miracles to please him."

[Devon]

"Just questioning myself I suppose," Christian replied. "I always feel that there is more I could do for Athrug and Taed's followers. And I will have to travel a bit and see if there is any child or young man or woman who shows some promise."

[Kender Bard]

"It is that continual dedication that ensures you are suited to your place," Thessa remarked with a melancholy smile. "I knew you had greatness in you, and you only continue to prove me correct in that... my love."

[Devon]

Christian smiled back, wanting to stroke her hair but knowing he couldn't. With a sigh he asked her, "Have you ever wanted to return here more permanently?"

[Kender Bard]

"Sometimes," Thessa agreed. "Sometimes not. I do, surprisingly, miss being alive. That seems almost blasphemous coming from me, I know. But on the other hand, I remember all the little pains and downfalls of the living and recoil. I suppose, on the whole, I merely miss the good moments. The Efilians, living and departed, claim that life isn't life without the bitter and the sweet. I think they're deluding themselves."

[Devon]

"I'd still like to have you back with me for the sweeter moments as those Efilians put it," Christian said somberly. "But even if it were possible, I'd only wish it if you wanted to return. I know it must seem a little selfish of me."

[Kender Bard]

"Hardly," Thessa replied. "But I understand. It's interesting, I haven't thought about it in-depth yet. Perhaps I should. Think are so peaceful and calm in the heavens.... but lacking, without you, without companions whom I can while away eternity with."

She took on a reflective look. "I have my family and my ancestors there, but after a lifetime without them, it's like meeting with strangers. I miss you too."

[Devon]

"I understand," Christian said, "But would you want to return to live with me until the time we both crossed over beyond the Veil? And I'm glad you miss me as much as I miss you. It seems unfair sometimes its like we barely got to know each other before you were taken."