Topic: Funeral and Memorial of Morgan Doyle

Miranda Branson

Date: 2013-03-15 11:46 EST
((OOC Note:: Please take this posting as if it happened mid January. Sorry for the delay and hope you enjoy!)) Private Funeral

The day weighted heavy upon Miranda to the point she felt movement, either by time or force was impossible, yet her lips continued to move. Her hand rested on the cold wooden casket, which had been kept closed. Dark metal roses climbed the wood from the base to the rounded top. Gracefully twisting to form a plaque, Morgan's name scrolled a crossed it. Part of her wanted to feel him, hear him stir within this damning box or to wake up to find this a dream, but she had promised to be strong. To be strong for the coven, for their friends and the heart they shared so dearly, their daughter Angel.

Angel sat in a chair watching her mommy in her white dress. Little black patten shoes swinging in the air as her tears were caught by her best friend, bunny. That wasn't her daddy in the pretty box. Daddy would be home when they went back. He couldn't be gone. Hiccuping softly as her mother's calm and smooth voice continued to carry over the small gathering.

Only close friends and members had been invited to the ceremony. White candles flickered from their stone and glass holders adding the faint scent of vanilla and jasmine to the air. Miranda looked like a bride. The white gown hugged her torso tight, while flowing sleeves of sheer fabric rolled down her arms falling just short of her wrists. The full skirt and bodice had been lovingly decorated with lace in an antique silver. Her jewelry kept simple to a silver bell around her neck and small crystal roses for earrings. To most this might seem strange, Angel and herself in white, but culturally for her this was common. The passing of a loved one you wear white to reflect light and project a pure energy so that their passing into summerland is joyous.

"My dear friends. We have gathered here today to honor a great man, Morgan Doyle. The founder of Bristle Crios, leader of Warrior house, devoted father and friend."

Miranda Branson

Date: 2013-03-15 11:47 EST
Gravesite

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The small group had walked to the cemetery at the far end of the property near the forest. Under the great shadow of a massive oak tree Morgan's head stone sat. The rich red marble with his name carved into it. Holding Angel in her arms, Miranda she could feel her heart shatter. This was real. This was goodbye.

Slowly the casket was lowered into the frozen earth. The few closing words hung in her mind rattling the first of her well hidden tears loose. Mint green eyes studied the ancient oak tree unable to face the headstone anymore. Her father's rough and haggard voice playing in her head.

"You have to honor the oak tree, my little coals. It is the symbol of a king. The rule of spring. He battles the great Holly king of winter to release us into the loving arms of the goddess. It is in this act that he has earned his right to rule by her side through spring and summer. An eternal warmth. So when winter comes, when you feel you are in the darkness, look to the oak tree and remember the playful spring and you will always find comfort."

Miranda Branson

Date: 2013-03-15 11:48 EST
Memorial Setting

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The renovations were complete on the house Miranda and Morgan had share and it was now fittingly transformed into the welcome center of Bristle Crios. Black banners hung from the high ceilings to match the table cloths draped over the heavy furniture. Softly, classical music drifted through the many rooms. The kitchen was filled with food and drinks and a small area set aside for the children's choir of the academy, who wished to do a small performance to honor their fallen leader. Miranda and Angel drifting among the many who came. Thanking each for taking the time to come and honor the passing of Morgan Doyle.

Image of house from http://hartforddailyphoto.blogspot.com

Miranda Branson

Date: 2013-03-15 11:49 EST
Food and Drink

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The kitchen had turned out a few snack foods and sweets. Sugar spiced almonds, granola snack bars, tuscan cream cheese spread along with toasted bits of freshly made bread, a few chocolates, and chocolate cupcakes with spring flowers .

There was to be no open bar, but a few simple drinks. Seltzer water with fresh berries, a few wines, coffee with an array of creams and Morgan's favorite drink, aged whiskey.

All recipes provide by Allrecipes

Miranda Branson

Date: 2013-03-15 11:49 EST
Tribute by Children's Choir of Bristle Crios Academy

Someday

Dressed in the school uniforms they lined up, heads raised with hope. Today might mark a sad day, but they hoped to honor their fallen founder and inspire those present that even in the darkest times we still have hope. Hopelessness only comes when we give up. Their teacher stood before them as one little girl stepped forward timidly. Hands raised for their attention as the music started. Their voices filling the house.

Song by Celtic Women

Miranda Branson

Date: 2013-03-15 11:51 EST
Outfits and Goodbyes

A leather book and pen was left on a stand alone in a room. This was for all to write what they felt the could not say out loud just yet. Well wishes for the family, words of comfort, memories and goodbyes.

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Angel was the first to say her goodbyes before she started crying again.

"Daddy, I miss you. I promise to be good and listen to mommy. Bunny too. I love you, daddy. I'll always be your princess. "

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