Landsbyen -Into the North- An Epic Poem 70

Joulupukki was hastily making preparations for his morning departure when Lumi and Chroí entered the room. When he saw them he hurried over to help Chroí find a suitable chair in which to sit. The cheer in his voice was audible as he spoke. “How wonderful, Chroí. How do feel?” “I am weak still but I am also very hungry.” “We would have gladly brought up food for you and Lumi if you would have preferred to stay in bed.” “Thank you,” she said, “but I think it's better if I stretch my legs. A little exercise will be good for me.” Ceridfen entered the room with a bowl of hot porridge drizzled with honey and some bread and jam. “Let's just not over do it young lady. You have been completely drained of your magic and it will take several days to regain your strength. You will stay right here until you are well, do you understand me?” Chroí thanked her as she placed the bowl in front her. “Thank you, all of you,” she said as she looked at each one in turn. She reached down and picked up the spoon with one hand and slid the other into Lumi's. Ceridfen noticed he did not pull away this time and she smiled. “I am very happy to see you feeling better, Chroí, but I'm afraid that I have to finish preparing for my trip. I will be leaving shortly.” Chroí noticed as he glanced at Lumi and saw the longing look that developed on Lumi's face. “Weren't you supposed to go with Joulupukki?” She asked Lumi. “It doesn't matter,” Lumi responded. “Taking care of you is the most important thing for me to do right now.” She leaned against him and said, “You are so sweet, but I am just tired now and need more sleep. I think you would be of much more help by accompanying Joulupukki.” “Yes, I think she is right,” chimed in Ceridfen, “She needs to rest now and you will just be a distraction for her.” A look of pained indignation appeared in his eyes. “A very, very pleasant distraction,” Chroí said, “but a distraction none the less. Besides, if the deer have the ability Joulupukki said they do, you will be back before I even wake up.” “Joulupukki stopped what he was doing for a minute and added, “Your company would certainly be appreciated.” Chroí felt much stronger as she finished her meal. Her muscles were no longer shaking. “Now, Lumi, if you will help me back to my room, then he will be all yours Joulupukki.” She stood and thanked Ceridfen once again for the food. Ceridfen looked up at her and watched as she leaned heavily against Lumi. This brought back memories of her own courting days with Dyndoeth and she couldn't help but to giggle. Chroí smiled back at her but with a hush look on her face; then, looked at Joulupukki who was also smiling and shaking his head. They made their way back to the room and he helped her to bed. She motioned for him to come closer and lifted her seemingly weighty head and again kissed him on the cheek. He stood looking into her beautiful golden eyes, very rare for an Elf, before leaning down and kissing her gently on her lips. She watched as he turned and left the room. Her trip up the stairs had exhausted her and she immediately fell asleep.