Chapter 23

From the Daylog of Vaeol-Zheieveil u’Zhasaele Zolaemaue be’Son

17. Vealae, 24,536 - Son
Remaue and I have spoken with Lady Istae. We have leave for Marketday upcoming, Monthfirst, and even a couple more days. Tae annd Less likewise have gotten freedom. So we are all set. We have been getting benches and shelves for our new limb-house and will dress it mainly for Remaue’s bridetide, though much can be kept for use afterward.
While I shopped for a looking-glass in the Ofu, I ran into Oshis. He was drawing a handbarrow laden with sundry stocks for the Citadel. At me he looked shaken and ashamed, as if he rued his sight in such lowliness.
I recked not. I dropped my bags and hugged him.
He is nowwardly bidden to the Citadel, though he read that can shift with the overseer’s whim. With raintide there is much tree-harvest, of blossoms and some early fruits. I asked whether he has gotten leave to see the new treehold, though he has not.
At end, he asked my forgiveness for all the ill he had done, both in striking me and what I had undertaken for his sake. I kissed him and forespoke I would soon see him again.

18. Vealae
Today I outbargained early from watch and rode to Erymi’s treehold. She greeted me from the limb-deck, came down the stairway, and kissed me. Then she led me back upside and brewed spice-tea.
I told her I had seen Oshis. She nodded and said she already knew, for yesterday she had come into the City and had seen him. We talked more until she had to chore. Her belly is but starting to swell, which I kissed and wondered at its smoothness. Happily, she has not been sick. We spoke of gathering but us three - her, me, and Oshis, some night when he gets bond-leave, maybe next monthfirst. She forespoke to show me how to handle a man.
I came home and found Remaue cleaning our room. I kissed her tight and told all is well with Erymi and Oshis, which gladdened her. Then I laid her down and gave her the worship she is owed.

1. Vinelae - Treehold
Tonight we stay at Erymi’s, for we rode here late after watch. We are all but Oshis here, who is not let bond-leave. I write this by witchlight while Remaue sleeps, for it is already late. I am glad she can sleep even if I cannot.
No ill thought keeps me up, else than an idle, witless worry that things may again go awry. How they could I know not, else than it still rankles. I love my maidenmate soon my wifemate. I look on her face slumbering right now and feel such mirth and wonder. Even with our mishaps, I feel blessed.