Journey To Light: Part I of the High Duties of Pacia Page 33

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  “Still no names?” Sybille asked Graice afterward.

  “No, just the two faces, mother and child. He knew everyone there but he didn’t even glance at them, so why should he think of their names?”

  “Because it would be helpful to us now,” Sybille said wryly. “But you’re right and you should take the advice you gave him. Don’t get frustrated because progress is slow. Besides, you’ve helped narrow the time line.”

  “How so?”

  “He was twenty-four when he lost his memory and they already had a baby before then. They must have married quite young.”

  “Hmm. I believe you recall a couple who married at that age,” Graice remarked. “Madrére, you remember those times much better than I do. After all, twelve years ago I was still studying my lessons in School, and the event in this piece of his memory occurred before then. Whereas you . . .”

  “Whereas I was old and didn’t have to study history because I was part of it. Is that what you mean?”

  “Yes, but I would word it politely. Not many young people could draw such distinguished guests to their wedding. There could not possibly have been many ceremonies of that magnitude anywhere East of the Sea during that time, and I’m sure you kept track of such events.”

  “I understand what you’re getting at, Graice,” said Sybille. “And yes, I believe that my speculation – ours, I mean – is accurate. But it’s still too early to tell him.”

  “Holder will want to start looking for his wife and child as soon as possible.”

  “Think about what he might discover if that type of search is successful. He should recover his memory first.”

  Graice’s eyes opened wide and she said, “Oh. You’re right.”

  “Don’t worry. We’ll know who he is soon enough. If Holder is who we think, our friend in Lucidus will identify him.”

  “But if he still can’t remember his former life on his own, what difference will knowing his name make?” Graice said.

  “That’s my point. I’m glad you realize it.”

  Graice and Sybille both waited in the tent until Holder began to stir. As soon as his eyes opened, he sat up. Neither woman spoke but he knew the question. He closed his eyes and concentrated deeply. Sadly he said, “No. I still don’t remember anything. Tell me what happened, Graice.”

  She recited the details and concluded, “It was a very emotional moment for you, Holder, seeing your wife holding the baby in its blanket so soon after childbirth.”

  “I don’t know . . . ,” Holder said as he lowered his head. “The green and white blanket was . . . a . . . a gift . . . ? From who . . .? Why can’t I remember anything?”

  “You just did,” Sybille said, and his head snapped up to face her.

  “What?”

  Looking at Graice, Sybille asked, “Was the blanket green and white?”

  “Yes. It had stripes of both colors.”

  Turning back to Holder, Sybille said, “She never mentioned the colors when she described it to you.”