One
It began as all things did: a girl on the shore, terrified and desirous.
From Angharad by Emrys Myrddin, 191 AD
The poster was as frayed¹ and tattered² as a page torn from someone’s favorite book. Surely, Effy
thought, that was intentional³. It was printed on a thick yellow parchment, not unlike her drafting
linens⁴. The edges were curling in on themselves—either shyly or protectively, as if the parchment
had a secret to hide.
Effy used both hands to smooth the paper flat, then squinted⁶ at the curling script. Handwritten,
it was smeared⁷ in several places. It was further obscured by a water stain of no discernible shape,
like a birthmark or a growth of mold.
To the esteemed⁹ students of the Architectural College,
The estate of Llyr’s national author EMRYS MYRDDIN is soliciting¹⁰ designs for a
manor¹¹ home outside the late author’s hometown of Saltney, Bay of Nine Bells.
We ask that the proposed structure—HIRAETH MANOR—be large enough to house
the surviving Myrddin family, as well as the extensive collection of books, manuscripts,
and letters that Myrddin leaves behind.
We ask that the designs reflect the character of Myrddin and the spirit of his enormous
and influential¹² body of work.
We ask that the designs be mailed to the below address no later than midautumn. The
winner will be contacted by the first day of winter.
Three conditions, just like in one of Myrddin’s fairy tales. Effy’s heart began beating very fast.

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