Atlantic Roleplay Community Boards

[Hikiko]

---

Several months had passed since Hikiko quietly left the island--the only home she'd ever known--escorted by her childhood friend Masaya. Dear Masaya, who promptly delivered her to the master Jhaeldril's wife.

How kindly miss Gladwyn had doted on Hikiko, never asking questions about the ordeal that had left her exhausted and always frightened. No demands or expectations were placed upon Hikiko. The days were filled with quiet, meditative times. Time to write her beloved poems, to paint her pictures of the floating world as she saw it. How many times had she found herself laughing at the funny clothes miss Gladwyn made for her. Mainlander clothes! she would giggle breathlessly.

One day, Hikiko realized how badly she missed the dramatic white paint for her face, the odd red color for her lips, the sweeping W shape formed at the nape of her neck. She felt refreshed in mind and body and more importantly, soul. She rang for miss Gladwyn, who came quickly every time she lifted the small bell. In halting common, Hikiko told the master's wife that she thought it was time to go home, that she missed the islands now more than she had come to fear them. How bright and kindly the older woman smiled at Hikiko, nodding her agreement. Would it be possible to have Masaya take her home, she asked?

Miss Gladwyn's smile faded just a bit, and she shook her head. In hushed tones she informed Hikiko that it would not be a good idea, Masaya had a lady friend on the island now and it would not be proper. Hikiko's own smile became sublime, and she wondered just what she had missed during this intriguing mainland hiatus. The women agreed, it was time. Hikiko was well and joyous once again--mainlander clothes aside!

The master's wife rushed off to do whatever it was she saw fit to do to prepare for Hikiko's second homecoming. But how different this one would be since her last time away from home! Meantime, Hikiko gathered her few belongings and awaited word.