Time’s Legacy

Epilogue

Kieran smiled at the woman he was sitting next to. She had shared her food with him and passed over a skin containing asses’ milk. They had been listening with crowds of other people to Jesus as he stood on the hillside, in the shade of the ancient olive trees. It had been months since Kier had left Britain. He had followed Flavius, making his long weary way to Rome, where Flavius had called in to see his parents, staying but a few days before resuming his journey across the Empire towards Galilee. At some point Flavius had doubled back and Kier had heard rumours that he had begun to retrace his steps towards his father’s house. He didn’t follow him. Somehow now, it didn’t matter.

Jesus had been talking for a long time and he was tired. Kier could see the weariness on his face, but also the gentleness as people queued to approach him, to ask for his blessing. ‘Are you going up to speak to him?’ The woman glanced across at him. She had brought her daughter, a child of about five who had a twisted leg. ‘Come with us. Help me carry her.’

They waited in line for a long time, but at last they shuffled closer until they were standing before him. Kier saw him smile at the woman, and put his hand on the child’s head. ‘She will be well. Put her down. Let her walk. Your child is very pretty.’

Kier realised suddenly that Jesus was looking at him; he assumed he was the girl’s father. ‘No. She’s not mine.’ He was so overawed he was stammering. ‘I’ve come from far away to see you. From Britain. Avalon.’

He saw Jesus’ eyes narrow in puzzlement. For a moment he hadn’t recognised the name. ‘Ynys yr Afalon,’ he repeated at last and he smiled. ‘You come from the druids. From Mora?’

Kieran hesitated, then he nodded.

‘Bless you.’ Jesus raised his hand and touched Kieran lightly on the shoulder. Behind him people were pushing closer, trying to attract his attention. For a few long seconds Kier held his gaze, then Jesus smiled again. ‘Time to go home, Kier,’ he said softly, ‘there are people waiting for you.’ Then he turned away and was swallowed in the crowd.