'I know that it is a very serious thing, Stephanotis, being chosen at such a young age, but you be sure that Archimedes knows what he is doing - of course we'll all help you, but you and Isabel have to be strong and go forward together into your new life.' Hortensia was sitting on the front steps, enjoying the last of the evening's golden light and trying to reassure Stephanotis about the day's amazing events. 'The Venerables have recognised something in each of you, you can be sure that they wouldn't have chosen you unless they had to come to deeply believe in your abilities.' She put her arm around his shoulders, 'all will be well, trust yourself and know in your heart that we are always with you, besides by the time Archibold has finished training you up - you'll be best that you can be!'
Stephanotis sighed, he had always lived by an inner knowing and just now he knew by the way that all his being felt alive - that he was excited more than he was frightened and that he was glad of the honour and the opportunities that had so unexpectedly been bestowed upon him.
'Why don't you invite Isabel out for a stroll and then to supper, that way we can all help with planning the best way forward? I'll invite Aunt Mildred and Uncle Humperdinck - if anyone has useful experience they do!'
So as the evening air grew cooler and a peaceful twilight enveloped the forest, Stephanotis and Isabel walked together hand in hand. Isabel was surprised, but not shocked in the way the Stephanotis had been, she had a sense that they were already walking a path together that had it's own music, and that their lives had been blessed by a sense of purpose. She loved Stephanotis as much as she loved her singing and the idea of a life together that had such deep meaning - seemed beautiful to her.
The stars were coming out as they walked back to Persimmon Heights, the others had started supper by the time the joined them around the kitchen table - which was just as well as the day's news was so exciting that having a little time to calm down was all to the good. Archibold was on grand form recalling how Stephanotis had burped after just one sip of Archimedes' tea, ' We have something very special to celebrate tonight - what do you think Hortensia, shall we break open a bottle of elderflower cordial?' As it happened, Hortensia had a bottle ready and waiting and soon all the gnomes were sipping the precious treat and glowing with contentment.
'Not every day that we can say that we have eaten supper with two such special friends at such a momentous moment in their lives.' and with that Hortensia and Archibold, and Aunt Mildred and Uncle Humperdinck stood up and toasted the young lovers, 'Joy and happiness all the days of your life'. Aunt Mildred was feeling a bit overcome and sat down to loudly blow her nose in her violet handkerchief, 'such a special day, oh dear, oh dear where's a peppermint when you need one?' The others all laughed and Hortensia took the hint and made a large pot of her best mint tea!
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