The Winter

Chapter 10

I've posted a new story called A Prophecy of Fire, the prologue is up and I hope to post the first chapter soon!
Perfect for anyone who loves a good fantasy with dragons gu leòr *winks*

Key:
Sgriosail - awful (skriss-al)
Tuatha De Dannan - Gods in Celtic mythology, the children of the goddess Danu (too-ah-tha day dan-an)

How do you feel about uninvited guests?

Chapter 10

"Why can you not wait until spring, a ghraidh? Niamh and I could pick flowers for your hair, and we could arrange a hunt, food, a night of song and dance in the forest." Mother sighed and frowned down at the blue ribbon she wound around her fingers.

"I wish I could wait." I twisted on the stool so I could see her properly, and not in the poor reflection of the small mirror in front of me. Eyes downcast, dark hair veiled most of her face, and her fingers still fretted at the ribbon, twisting it as if she wanted to tear it apart. "But with what's coming, spring might not be a good time, and I don't want to miss my chance with Hati. I don't want to miss this moment of happiness life is offering me. This is a good thing, a happy thing, we haven't had a happy event in a while; even if we can't celebrate traditionally. At least with Hati, you know I won't be running off to start a pack of my own. I'll be right here."

She sucked in a sharp breath. "You remind me of Mànas when you speak so gravely, then try to comfort your poor old mother-wolf."

I reached out to brush my fingers against the back of her hand, and immediately some of the tension drained away from her.

"You are neither poor nor old, a mhamaidh. I didn't mean to frighten you. I'm sorry."

Stepping forward, she wrapped her arms around my shoulders and nuzzled her warm cheek against mine. She smelt of the sweet bread she'd been baking that morning, and I found I didn't mind her change of scent; it only made it the more homely.

"It's not me I'm frightened for. I know you and Hati won't let whatever is out there do further harm to the pack. It's you I'm frightened for, my solemn female." She lifted her head to meet my gaze in the mirror. "You've always been determined, unstoppable, in your own quiet way. Since we've been here, you've found your voice, and I believe Hati had a hand in that. If all you have told me is true, you have much to face, I know that, but since that pup's death. . .Gods Eabha he was no older than you. . .I wish I could tell you to be careful and know you would listen. But its not in your nature. You're a protector now, like Mànas was, and once you're mated, I feel like you're going to fly out my grasp." Her voice hitched. "I know he loves you. I know you love him. I know both of you will put the pack first, but please don't do so at your own expense. Don't let love blind you, Eabha. That is my advice on your mating day."

She patted my hair and straightened up, shaking off whatever melancholy mood had struck her. Her chuckle was scratchy as she took in my expression while she began to weave the ribbon into my braid. "With age comes wisdom, I have that at least. Why have you got such a face on?"

"Because, " I grumbled, blushing as I admitted. "Hati is similarly concerned with my willingness to throw my life into danger, and you agreeing only proves his point."

Her lips twitched. "He sees you well."

Too well.

After a bit of playful flinching as Mother finished my hair, my mood lifted again. My mating day, I reminded myself. This was my day. Our day. And if I closed my eyes, it was almost as if I could feel my brother and uncle in the room too, the swell of their pride.