Silvānus (Estonia)

[Patricus I]

Although stealing was a ‘top ten’ sin, he wasn’t here to bring up the judgement. The defensiveness following Nimeda’s unabashed acceptance prickled, and twin lines were drawn into the thoughtful crevices of Philip’s expression. He wasn’t happy with the way their interaction was unfolding. He was equally aware that there were a number of dark windows above that could shield the watchers of anonymous curiosity. In fact, he assumed there were. At least they were sensible enough to try and hide the eavesdropping.

“I’m not angry,” he said, though he was aware he probably seemed that way. He was an irascible man. He made no effort to change his demeanor. In the dream, Philip was vulnerable around Nimeda, but he was beginning to entertain that the woman at his side was indeed not Nimeda. It made him a little sad.

“Did you draw a figure that was both plant, tree and man? He spoke outrageous things,” he said, pausing in the shade. Gently, Philip reached out, stroking the soft needles and cones of the nearby tree. Tucked into the needles were pink flowers soon to become more cones. There were several on the grounds in various stages of growth. He first noticed their presence dappled among the terrain in the drive from the airport. With a sudden snap, a twig broke away, which he promptly gave to Thalia. 

“Tuuru,” he said as the gift was offered, hopeful that recognition bloomed along with the name.
“He guarded the column you drew. We roused him from his … slumber.” Awakening wasn't the right word. It was more like they activated the Arboreal. She had also drawn the crystal stake. Very same as the one that disappeared from his hands. He hadn’t given much thought to the significance of the key since then.

“How’d you find your burn box? The one in the river. Could you find something else like that?” His pace resumed the gentle stroll.