#VS: Eldrid Linden

[mystical-evergreen]

Norde's "good friend", Eldrid Linden comes by to visit. She reasons that even if Norde is a hermit he needs company. And oh how does he enjoy Eldrid's company...

[mystical-evergreen]

The night ends with a simple meal gathered around the table. Mary Everille and Bjorn Westergaard spoke fondly of their grandchildren and how quickly they were growing up. Eldrid piped up, expressing her excitement on her son beginning the search for a wife. She couldn't wait to hear the pitter patter of little feet again. Bjorn's son, Hakon had joined the elders and sat near the end of the table, smiling at his father's chatter.

Hakon mentioned how sweet treats always seemed to follow children. Mary then offered how ale and spirits always seemed to follow their tired parents. The table erupted with laughter, and the banter continued late into the evening.

[mystical-evergreen]

The arrival of the fellow elders of the village was not an odd thing. Norde, although very much a recluse, still enjoyed the friendship of his generation. Among today's guests were Eldrid Linden, Bjorn Westergaard, and of course Mary Everille. The ever present gossip, it was difficult to have an outing without Mary. Norde particularly liked Eldrid, she was a kind woman. However, he had little fondness for Bjorn, who took every opportunity to touch and be close to Mary. He even went as far as kissing her. It was scandalous, as Bjorn was a married man, but the elders knew better than to spread news of his infidelity.

Mary came by most often, and Norde considered her his closest friend. Today she complained of the aches she felt in her body. Old age had brought wisdom, she liked to brag, but also an unwanted tiredness. It made sense, after the death of her son Mary had taken up the manual labor required of a woodcutter.

[mystical-evergreen]

Idonea had learned how to be content by herself. Her uncle had woven reed blocks and a table for her to play with. He'd also traded some small bass for the Linden Family's old stuffed bear. Eldrid was happy to comply. She adored Idonae and missed having small children. Often Eldrid would help Norde with childcare.

[mystical-evergreen]

Eldrid and Norde slipped outside to play catch. Norde couldn't help but notice how beautiful his fellow elder was.

So, as the pair went back into the fisherman's shack, they slicked away to a private room. Eldrid was married, but in that moment neither she nor Norde seemed to care.

[mystical-evergreen]

A long day's work was exhausting, yet the fish stand was stocked for a day of trading.