Parem, The Valaran Chronicles: Prequel 1

By Byron A. Wells

This short story follows Hobs' parent, Parem and Rowena as they travel from Angel City, ending up at Redwood.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Byron A. Wells
• Release date: Jun 16, 2012
• ISBN: 9780988059030

Byron A. Wells

Aspiring SciFi and Fantasy writer, IT professional by day.

Book preview

Celebration

Celebration Hill was aglow with the light of thirty lanterns hung from the colorful streamers which were stretched from pole to pole in anticipation of the equinox celebration. Tables, laden with food and drink, had been erected on sturdy trestles to support them. The soft grass underfoot reflected a blending of lantern and the lingering light that the viridian sun cast off as it slowly disappeared below the horizon.

Jonaton ran a hand through his thick, wavy brown hair pushing it from his face as he contemplated the preparations – final touches were being put in place with care. Delyth, Jonaton’s wife of twenty years, was busy draping garlands of Graz flowers onto the low rails that edged the slightly raised platform on the north side of the hill.

It would be upon that platform that Jonaton would perform his first official equinox duties since rising to the position of Council Leader. Today’s summer equinox celebration would be that much more special for him since his daughter Elena had chosen to enter into the union with Ren, the town metal smith. He was a good man, Jonaton reflected, one who would treat his daughter with love and respect – the fact that he was in line for a seat on the council further stood him in good measure.

What are you gazing at so intently yet not seeing, my love? Delyth asked from his elbow.

Jonaton sighed softly as he turned to regard his wife with his soft grey eyes. A smile transformed his normally composed and firm face as he regarded his lovely wife.

He stood a head taller than her – which he considered perfect as she could comfortably rest her head on his shoulder when they stood side by side. He looped an arm around her and pulled her close, both regarding the platform.

You do realize you aren’t losing her, don’t you? Delyth asked gently, lifting her head to look into his eyes. 

He loved her green eyes, and the short blond hair that framed her elfin face. After all these years, he still considered himself the luckiest man in Redwood for having won her heart. A Union was a commitment for five cycles, if the couple chose to remain together after that time it became a lifetime commitment. The fact Delyth and Jonaton had chosen to remain in their union spoke of the depth of their love for one another.

I hope they find the same happiness as you and I did after five cycles. His comment elicited a giggle from Delyth. Turning to her, he continued though he already knew the answer, Don’t you have someplace to be my love?

I do, but I had to see how you were doing. You are quite right though, Elena needs her mother now. She stood on her tiptoes to give her husband a gentle kiss. Then with soft hands she smoothed his tunic – he had to look resplendent for his first equinox after all. You will do fine tonight, I am sure Elena will be quite proud; that is if she even notices you.

Jonaton laughed a full laugh at Delyth’s tease. She always knew what to say to lighten his mood. "Aye, you are correct – I know she’ll be happy, Ren is a good man. I’ll try to not growl at him during the ceremony; at least not too much.

See that you don’t. Delyth retorted with a soft threat and slap on his arm before turning and walking away.

Yes tonight would be a very special occasion Jonaton thought.

JONATON. The harsh voice of Pol interrupted his quiet reflections, A word please.

Turning to face the town butcher, Jonaton made no effort to close the distance between them, content to make Pol walk the entire way. He regarded the short,