The Elephant Gate

When the following afternoon arrived, the sun was still shining, although dark clouds on the horizon bespoke possible stormy weather. Kevin waved to Sur'kya and Teacher Joy before getting into the truck.

He was excited about the ceremony. The captain had briefly explained the steps, and Kevin was apprehensive about messing up his part. He nervously felt in his pocket for the scrap of paper containing the letters of the baby's new name. Will she like it?

Once they arrived in the compound, they were sent to a side entrance. There, in an outside area partially protected by a metal overhang, the two elephants were picketed. Mama Kwamsoo was decked out with a head covering of red and gold. A tasseled blanket of gold was dr.a.p.ed across her back. When she saw the new arrivals she gave a little trumpet. Kevin waved at her, feeling foolish but happy.

The baby elephant looked funny. Curly designs were drawn on her face, trunk and legs.

"Those designs are drawn on with henna and paint brushes," the captain explained, "they are symbols of health, longevity, and good luck." There was a bright red bow on the little tail, and a small gold blanket similar in design to her mother's own decorations.

There were several stands of white chairs, with a low white dais in the foreground. A table covered in red and gold bunting was in the middle, with several objects in the center. There were freestanding arrangements of flowers and foliage around the area, giving it an even more festive appearance.

As the two made their way to the chairs, Kevin tried to ignore the whispering of the people that they passed. The captain ignored them altogether, only greeting with a nod to those that hailed them first. At the edge of paddock, Kevin was glad to see Khun Wit and Khun Tae. At least there were some welcoming faces.

The two handlers bowed before walking up and shaking hands.

"I hope the weather holds off for the ceremony," the captain remarked. Wit just waved his hand in a negligent gesture.

"Even a storm heralds good news sometimes. We decided to hold it here just in case the heavens opened up before we were done. And we may run a little late; the royal family hasn't arrived yet."

"They will be here, too?" Kevin asked. Khun Tae, the horse handler, nodded.

"They have a part to play in the ceremony as well."

Kevin nervously rubbed his suddenly-damp hands against his pant leg. He didn't want to flub up in front of the king and queen, and Sur'kya was sure to tease him about any mistake he might make.

A slight puff of dust arose from the trees circling the pavilion. "The royal family is almost here."

Kevin and Thadchai quickly made their way to a row of four chairs to the right of the dais. He quickly checked the piece of paper again; sure he was going to forget during his part of the ceremony.

Surikitiyia ran over to the pair and hugged Kevin before stepping back and curtseying to the older man.

"Hello again, Cap'n Thadchai. I can't wait for this! It's the first time I've been allowed to watch." The captain nodded as the highnesses arrived, much more sedately than their daughter. Greetings were exchanged all around, before everyone was ushered to their seats. The royal family was placed on the left side of the dais.