The lost dreamer, p.2
The Lost Dreamer, page 2
part #2 of Fire & Ice Series
I placed my suitcase beside the door and wandered toward the old bedframe. The mattress was far too old and dusty for anyone to sleep upon. Nevertheless, I believed the room had a great deal of aesthetic potential.
A large wardrobe stood on the other side of the floor. Compared to all of the other objects I had encountered inside the old house, this piece of furniture seemed to be the only sturdy structure. It reminded me of the wardrobes in the Academy dormitories. My mind recalled the engravings that appeared to move with the graceful blink of an eye. Although my new white closet was not enchanted, it managed to serve its purpose. I was beginning to have a new respect for things of ordinary quality.
After pulling up the latch on my dusty suitcase, I began to unload my clothing into the empty wardrobe. My organizational skills were hard at work, as I decided to arrange the materials in a rainbow of pastel and autumnal colors.
I eventually heard the sound of footsteps in the hallway. Emery had appeared beside the open door. “I expect that our parents will be looking for us,” she spoke with a hushed voice.
“Did you find a suitable bedroom?” I inquired.
“Yes, I did.” She nodded. “Although it is quite different from our old home, I think this house will be a remarkable place for us to live.” Her blue gaze traveled across the expanse of my new room. She seemed to be happy; although, lately, I was never sure. My sister’s mind always wandered through a forest of windswept thoughts.
The kitchen was filled with an abundance of baking sheets and cooking utensils. An old white farm sink rested beneath the small window, which was coated with a fine layer of yellow pollen. A tall door stood in the back of the room, giving entrance to the tangled gardens.
Our mother was standing beside the sink, filling several buckets with soapy water. Her hair was tied back in a neat braid.
“As you can see, this house is going to need quite a bit of work,” our father remarked as he wiped the counter with a wet cloth.
“The mattress in my bedroom looks like it has been used as a raft and left to soak in the rain,” Emery informed him. “I’m sure it must be covered in mold.”
“Well, I’m certain we will be able to find a replacement in the village,” our father responded. “We will leave as soon as this kitchen is spotless.”
Glancing around at the mess that surrounded my family, I wondered if we would be able to finish cleaning before dusk. I walked over to the sink and picked up a bucket of water.
When we had finished scrubbing the grime and dust away from every corner of the old kitchen, the rest of the house seemed to be a strange contrast against the sparkling white room. The distant melody of songbirds traveled through the air. Mother had left the back door open as she swept the dust away from the floor. “Alexander,” she addressed our father. “If you care to start cleaning the corridor, I will bring the girls to explore the village. You can pick up the new mattresses when you are done.”
“That sounds fine, dear,” my father responded.
I looked down at the dirt that covered my clothes. Streaks of mud and dust had been smeared across the fabric of my ivory dress. My imagination drifted toward the possible reaction of anyone who might encounter me in this state. I did not dare to leave the house in such a manner.
“Run upstairs and get dressed before we go,” our mother told us. “I will meet you near the gardens.”
Emery glanced at me for a moment before we hurried up the stairwell and parted in the hallway. Her blue eyes held a vivid spark of excitement and wonder.
CHAPTER THREE
After meeting our mother beside the unruly wildflower gardens, we continued on our journey to the village. The air was fresh with the early morning dew, which made every breath seem a bit easier than before. The soft dirt of the country road crunched silently beneath our boots as we walked together.
After a moment of pondering, I realized something seemed very different. This change was not found in the nature of Aisling; rather, it was discovered in my own spirit. My previous adventures in this land had left me with the strength to break out of a suffocating cocoon. This world had changed the matter of my heart.
As we traveled down the old path, we passed several large manors. It seemed as though we were not the only family that lived so far from civilization. I enjoyed the solitude that was found in these parts of the realm. There was something very calming about the rolling fields of emerald grass and stone walls.
“Do you suppose we will meet any of our friends from the Academy?” asked Emery. “It would be nice to see them again.”
Our mother remained silent as a tight-lipped smile spread across her cheeks. I knew she was planning something, although I did not care to spoil the surprise.
“Perhaps,” I replied with a quiet smile.
Glancing over my shoulder, I noticed Macnas Manor was far behind us. A carriage was galloping in our direction. Four black horses pulled the coach onward. They seemed to be approaching fast, leaving a haze of dirt and dust in their wake. Although our family was unusually tall, our strides were no match for those of the magnificent creatures. My mind was teeming with apprehension as the coach came to a halt beside us.
“Alice Hanley,” a familiar voice spoke.
I turned my head to greet a simple pair of amethyst eyes, which peeked through the carriage window. Vivid memories flooded my mind, leaving my lips speechless. I was sure my sister had called upon her very wishes.
“Violet!” my sister greeted our friend with a jump of surprise. “What are you doing here?”
“I could ask you the same question,” replied Violet Holloway.
“We just arrived at Macnas Manor,” I told her. “Our family has moved to Aisling.”
An expression of delight and bewilderment appeared upon Violet’s face. She opened the carriage door and beckoned us inside. As we stepped toward the black coach, I realized she was not alone. I immediately recognized the unusual man who was seated across from our friend.
“Emerson,” our mother greeted him. “It is so lovely to see you!”
“Ailsa,” Violet’s father acknowledged our mother with a friendly nod. “I hope all has been well.”
“Are you on your way to the village?” Violet questioned us. “We can give you a ride.”
“Your offer is very generous, but I wouldn’t want to impose,” our mother responded. Although the village was several miles away, I knew she preferred to walk.
“It wouldn’t be a bother,” Emerson said with a hopeful glance out the window. “Where is Alexander?”
“Our father stayed at the manor,” Emery told him. “We are taking a break from cleaning the dust out of the house.”
“I cannot imagine such a haunting spectacle,” Sir Holloway spoke with a melancholy tone. “Alexander’s mother always took such lovely care of Macnas Manor. I’m sure it must be quite strange to see the home in such a state.”
There was a moment of silence before we finally stepped into the carriage. Our mother’s eyes seemed to illuminate as she took notice of the woman seated beside Violet.
“It has been far too long, Ailsa,” the woman spoke with a pleasant and silvery voice. She grasped my mother’s hand between her delicate palms. A forgotten friendship revealed a pool of emotions on the surface of her hazel eyes.
As the carriage clattered along the dirt path, I noticed Violet’s mane was no longer a vibrant shade of lavender. Her naturally blonde hair was beginning to emerge from the faded dye. Even so, my friend’s iridescent gaze still shone with bright elation.
“I simply cannot believe you are living down the road from my house,” said Violet. “I did not know your family was planning to move.”
“It was a bit sudden,” Emery responded. “But I believe it was the best decision.”
“Everyone must eventually return to their rightful home,” I added. “Our New England farmhouse was beginning to feel out of place.”
“Well,” said Violet, “I’m quite content with your decision. It will be so lovely to have your family nearby.”
A cluster of colorful buildings began to appear in the distance. As we drew closer, I recognized the outline of the local village. The forest canopy began to abate as the dark horses pulled us forward. The dwindling tree line revealed an ocean shore that followed us in the direction of the hamlet. Waves of salt water crashed gently on the sand, streaming through large clusters of ancient rocks as the tide pulled the water back to sea.
“Welcome to the village of Innis,” announced Sir Holloway.
The horses cantered onward as the voices of the bustling town became audible. Gifted people of all ages wandered through the cobblestone road, which belonged to the land beside the sea. Children dashed across the beach, waving colorful streamers in the air behind them. Footprints marked the peaceful adventures of those who had explored the shore.
“There are quite a lot of people in this town,” I remarked.
Memories of the countryside lingered in my mind. The village of Innis seemed to be rather populous in comparison to the hamlets I had previously visited.
“It isn’t usually this crowded,” Violet assured me. “The warm summer months bring people to the ocean.”
“The majority of them will be gone in a few days,” Mrs. Holloway added as she rummaged through her rose-colored purse.
As the carriage ride continued, Rosemary fussed over her daughter’s untidy hair. A grave tone of voice suggested the several hours that had gone into Violet’s uncharacteristic attire. Despite her gleaming eyes and radiant smile, the prim woman never failed to stick her nose up with a distasteful expression. It was clear that Violet had taken after her father.
Although they were alike in kindness and spirit, Violet and Rosemary Holloway were very different individuals. The daughter of the relationship was wild and fearless. She followed her heart, no matter the circumstances. It did not take long for me to realize that Violet’s mother was ruled by perfection, conscience, and reasoning. I cannot disclose which mindset is wiser, as my actions are governed by both heart and mind.
CHAPTER FOUR
The village of Innis was quite an unusual place. As we arrived in the center of the seaport town, our carriage was greeted by a colorful parade. Children and adults crowded the streets, throwing bundles of flower petals into the air. The shop windows were decorated with ribbons and garlands of every complexion.
“Have we stumbled upon a celebration?” Emery inquired.
“This is the annual parade for the lost ocean child,” Sir Holloway explained. “Although it has become remarkably cheerful, the spectacle was created in remembrance of a young boy who disappeared beside the sea.”
“It has been nearly a decade since the day he vanished,” added Violet.
“Not one person will forget that terrible day,” Mrs. Holloway murmured as we passed the moving crowd.
The sorrowful and haunted faces of parents were masked by the excitement of young children. Time shielded them from the heartache suffered a decade earlier, as tragedy had not touched the surface of their adolescent hearts. Although I had not experienced the affliction that rocked the joyful spirit of this town, I envied the ignorance of the youthful population. There were few melancholy children in the crowd.
“Did you know the child?” I asked.
“Not personally,” responded Violet. “This village is minuscule—it isn’t strange to know the names of your fellow Gifted people.”
“What was his name?”
“Fionn MacMillan.”
The coach came to a sudden halt beside a tall stone building. Peeking out the window, I noticed the parade was far behind us. Raindrops were beginning to fall from the opaque sky.
“Thank you very much for your kindness,” my mother addressed the Holloway family. “We will leave you here.”
“You are most welcome,” responded Rosemary. “I hope to see you soon, Ailsa.”
Violet attempted to hide an unexplainable smile as the coachman appeared beside the window. The teenage girl bid us farewell, allowing her hand to trust in my Gift. My abilities and control had developed since the day of my presentation at the Academy for Gifted Youth. The fire in my veins did not dare to burn the skin of my companions.
The sky began to open as we stepped through the carriage door. Raindrops soaked the top of my ginger hair, while reflections streamed across my freckled shoulders. We made our way into the nearest shop, and the doorbell jingled loudly as we entered.
“I must be having a hallucination!” A strange voice was heard from the back of the store.
“What are you talking about, Oliver?” a familiar voice responded.
“I’m sure the Hanley twins have grown taller since our last encounter,” replied the first voice.
My attention sparked at the mention of our name. Turning my head, I took notice of the familiar faces that lingered beside an old bookshelf. Ronan, Kade, and Oliver O’Reilly stared at me with identical blue eyes. They seemed to be at a loss for words.
“Alice,” Ronan greeted me.
“Hello,” I replied with a gleeful smile.
“This is a wonderful surprise!” Kade exclaimed.
“I did not expect to see you here,” I responded.
“Our uncle is newly engaged,” said Kade. “Our father insisted on moving to Aisling for the celebration. After no more than a single week, we have decided to remain in the realm.”
“Who is the bride?” our mother inquired.
“Augusta,” said Oliver.
My thoughts immediately shifted to the image of the secretary and caretaker of Lancaster Hall. There were times when I believed that Augusta was a woodland fairy in disguise, for the young woman possessed the pointed ears, bouncing curls, and unconventional style of a magical creature. I was sure I could hear the sound of her peculiar typewriter in the distance.
“Congratulations!” my mother addressed the young professor. “Augusta is an extraordinary young woman.”
“Indeed,” responded Oliver. “I am very lucky.”
I noticed Ronan had been staring at me. He seemed to be blinking a cloud of bewilderment from the surface of his sapphire eyes. My thoughts drifted toward the memories of our adventures from the previous year. Although we were a pair of awkward and unusual teenagers, our friendship had been something I had never experienced before.
“What are you doing in Aisling?” asked Ronan.
“We are living at Macnas Manor,” I responded.
“I have heard many stories about that old house,” said Kade. A strange expression began to settle upon her freckled cheeks. “It reminds me of the abandoned chateau near Castle Moss.”
A spark of uneasiness lingered in the corners of my mind. I did not know the stories Kade had been told about Macnas Manor, but the tone of her voice suggested the legends did not have a happy denouement.
“This village is infested with myths,” our mother sighed, noticing my obvious expression of concern. “Macnas Manor is perfectly ordinary. If you have any further suspicions, I’m sure your father can put them to rest.”
There was a moment of uncomfortable silence as each of us exchanged a careful glance. Although I wanted nothing more than to put my suspicions aside, I was unable to believe the words of my mother. The echo of ancient floorboards lingered throughout my memory. Our grandmother’s manor was far from ordinary; however, the topic of conversation had quickly changed course.
“I hope to see your family at the Late Summer Festival,” said Ronan. “It will be a grand event.”
“Perhaps,” my mother was quick to respond, although it was evident the boy was addressing her daughters.
“What is the Late Summer Festival?” inquired Emery, allowing her gaze to fill with rare excitement.
“It is an annual tradition in the village of Innis,” explained Oliver. “The Academy for Gifted Youth hosts the gathering near the shore of the Northern Sea. All individuals are welcome to attend.”
Although the world outside the shop window was sodden and gray, my imagination painted the picture of a bright and beautiful day. A sense of anticipation danced gracefully in my mind.
The sky transformed as the rain clouds parted to reveal a brilliant shade of blue. We expressed our farewells to the O’Reilly family, and continued our exploration of the little village of Innis. My sister was unable to keep her lips from curling into a smile. I didn’t dare ask about the thought that humored her heart, for it wasn’t difficult to guess.
“It is wonderful to hear about Oliver’s engagement,” our mother commented. “I’m sure the wedding will be lovely.”
As we crossed the bustling village street, our boots splashed through several shallow puddles of rainwater. The stray droplets danced in the air around us, soaking through the hem of my dress. My sister never missed the chance to make use of her elemental Gift.
There was not a single automobile on the cobblestone road. Carriage horses walked patiently through the dirt paths that surrounded the village, while bicyclists hurried down the sandy boardwalk. The people of Innis were known to travel on foot, and an evening walk was regarded as the perfect form of recreation.
“You appear to be drowning in the ocean of your mind.” Emery glanced at me with an expression of concern. “What is bothering you?”
“Nothing,” I responded. “It feels a bit unusual to be back in Aisling.”
My sister nodded with understanding. Her diamond eyes flashed with the remains of extraordinary memories. “It feels quite strange to be here, especially while the Academy is vacant,” she whispered. “We must visit the castle tomorrow.”
The silent school of magic was sure to be an unusual sight. My thoughts drifted toward the image of abandoned hallways and ancient tapestries. A sudden flashback provided my imagination with the memories of burning embers and dangerous adventures through the forest. I was sure no experience would ever compare to our previous year in the marvelous Academy.
