Finally, chapter 5! Sorry about the wait...

Read and review!!!

Lirigon was even more astounding beyond the walls of Maerad's bedchamber. Unlike Norloch, Lirigon had a more humble beauty. The ceilings throughout the main corridors were high, with a marbled look about them. Rich carpets and tapestries hung in every room, embroidered with the steadiest of hands in gold and silver.

The bards of Lirigon were a kind, gentle folk, as were the townspeople. Everyone seemed to know Maerad, and greeted her with smiles and gifts, which she learned quickly to politely refuse.

"Defeating the Nameless once and for all is no small thing, love," had been Cadvan's simple reply when Maerad had come to him wide eyed after a day of exploring. "You're bound to be well known."

After only a few days in the school, Maerad knew her way around as if she had lived there her whole life. She made many friends, her favorite being the librarian, Draya. Maerad spent many evenings in the library, simply poring over the many books it held. Draya was always ready to help, and enjoyed Maerad's company as much as Maerad enjoyed hers.

One morning, Maerad awoke especially late. She had stayed up the night before at a feast held in celebration of her and Cadvan's arrival, and afterward she had composed a letter to Hem. He had continued with Saliman to do what they could with the remains of Turbansk.

Maerad stretched, content to do nothing at the moment but lay there. After some time, she pulled herself out of bed and put on one of the richly colored gowns that had been provided for her. Just as she was finishing the buttons, there was a soft knock at her door. "Come in!" she called cheerily.

Cadvan stepped into the room, smiling when he saw Maerad. "Ah, good you're dressed. Come with me, there is someone I want you to see." He winked mischievously, then walked out of the room. Maerad hurried after him, curious to see who the special someone was.

They walked through the many corridors, stopping only for Maerad to grab a quick snack from the kitchen. Cadvan stopped in front of the door leading to the main hall. "Now, Maerad," he began, smiling, "I...well, you will see, soon enough."

Maerad was wracking her brain, trying to figure out who this person could be, just as Cadvan opened the door. Her eyes widened in shock, and she cried out in joy. "Silvia!" she exclaimed, running into the hall.

Silvia stood from the couch where she had been sitting, and expression of pure joy on her face. "My dear Maerad!" Silvia cried, embracing her. They pulled away, Silvia holding Maerad at arm's length. "My, you've grown so much! I don't mean in height either. You, Maerad, have become quite the young woman! Oh, how you remind me of my daughter..." she trailed off, a smile spreading across her face.

"It's so good to see you Silvia!" Maerad proclaimed, embracing her once again. She suddenly remembered Cadvan standing in the doorway. "Cadvan, how could you!" she cried, wagging her finger at him playfully. "You should have told me!"

"Ah, yes, but in doing so I would not have gotten to see the surprise on your face when you walked into this room!" Cadvan replied, walking over to where the two were standing. He walked up behind Maerad, placing his hands on her shoulders. "And that, Maerad, is something I would not want to miss." He placed a small kiss on her cheek. "I shall leave you two some time to catch up. We do, however, need to council with Silvia later. I will come find you later." He gave Maerad's shoulders and affectionate squeeze, and walked from the main hall.

Maerad turned to Silvia, and saw a shocked expression on her face. "Please pardon me for asking, Maerad, but...did I, perhaps, miss something?" she asked, a smile creeping across her face. Maerad sat next to her, confused.

"Oh!" she exclaimed, then bent her head, blushing. She was not good talking about these things. "Well..." she began, then gave up, blushing deeper.

Silvia laughed, a light, musical, airy sound. Maerad looked up, smiling shyly. "Ah, Maerad, there is no shame in love. The Ways of the Heart are complicated roads, and only the wise travel them surely." She took Maerad's face in her hands, placing a light kiss on her forehead. "I am very happy for you. Cadvan is a noble man, with a true heart, bringing with it a true love."

Maerad smiled, overwhelmed with gladness. Silvia was here, finally, and for the moment, her entire being was at peace.

Ok, hope you liked it! R&R! Please!!!