Rites of Passage: Part 1



Egfor was roused from his feverish sleep by a cold hand on his forehead. He cracked his eyes open to see his mother's face leaning over him. He reaches a hand up to grasp her frail hand in his own, large, calloused hand.

She leaned down to kiss his forehead and proceeded to help him sit up. Egfor started to protest, but sighs, relenting as the strong elderly woman helped him sit up and placed a bowl of broth in his hands. 

Egfor hunkered over the bowl, slurping up the broth hungrily.

Gwawr sat down in a chair, letting out a sigh. After a long, drawn out moment, she spoke, "Are you clear of mind, my dear son?"

Egfor quirked a brow, ,"As much as I can be without coffee right after waking." Gwawr rolled her eyes, "I have a serious matter to speak with you about. My father nagged me in my dreams to talk to you about it."

Egfor swallowed some broth nervously. He already knew what was to be said. Gwawr nodded, "You need to partake in the rite of passage."

Egfor sighed, "I… I know. I am afraid."

"That is the point, little deer. Willpower and dedication to this path. I know the lines and the ink and how to do it. Since my father is not here, we will call on his spirit to guide my hand." Gwawr hesitated and mulled in silence for a moment, "My father said we could bring in a duvodiad this time, your husband, if he wishes to help, that is. It may ease your nerves."

Egfor nodded, "It would, yes. I will bring it up with him. What would he do?" Gwawr frowned, "I am unsure. It depends on his comfort level, I suppose. Anything from helping prepare the tools to helping me to just being a visible comfort for you."

Egfor hesitated and looked at the ring on his hand, "That is what holds me back. What I feel, he will feel. I don't want to put him in utter agony for hours."

Gwawr nodded, "I figured. My father may be able to intercept and redirect sensations between you two for just the rituals at least-- your husband does not need to undergo the dedication with you." Egfor sighed, "Another thing to discuss with him. It would be cruel to subject him to that."

Egfor finished his broth, dwelling in silence for a moment, then slowly nodded, "Yes. I am ready for this. I've prolonged this for long enough."

Gwawr rose up and took the bowl from him, leaning to kiss his forehead, "I am proud of you, my son. I'll find him and send him in."

Egfor smiled at his mother, anxiety fluttering in his heart, "Thank you…"