Gift of the Spirit

The pup was all but asleep in her lap as Keaira brushed a hand across his fur, feeling the rough grain of it and enjoying the peace of the moment. He had been settled there for a near hour, playful at first, then progressively languid until she had become his pillow. She was not one to complain.

In the distance, on the edge of the forest, the teenager could see the pup’s mother sitting sentient, her head lowered to her paws and her eyes closed while erect ears shifted on occassion, listening. Though she appeared settled and unassuming, Keaira knew that the wolf was studying every inch of nature. She was a sturdy, sleek timberwolf, her coat a deep brown that ran from her muzzle down to her tail and bled out to a crisp white on her belly and feet – A beautiful creature.

Suddenly, those ears quirked and that graceful head rose, staring straight in her direction. “Keaira?” A low growl sounded from across the field even before the teenager could turn to see who had spoken. Grey eyes met blue.

“Lady Rhoswen.” The red-haired priestess stood before her, cloaked in white. Surprised, the priestess’ gaze shifted between the clearly agitated wolf and Keaira, understanding dawning slowly. Suddenly, the pup was wide awake, scrambling in alarm from her lap and loping nervously toward his mother. Keaira stood, brushing the dirt from her skirts with the faint feeling of loss, and stood beside the First as both mother and offspring disappeared abruptly into the forest.

There was an awkward moment of silence, broken by soft words, “I’m sorry. It seems I’ve frightened them off.”

“No, it’s alright. She just worries.” Her eyes lingered on the trees, longing, before she finally tore them away and lowered her head.

“You have a gift of the spirit.”

“Pardon?”

“A gift. The wolves are at ease beside you, they can feel the sincerity of your heart; your kindness. There are few with such a gift.” She could feel Rhoswen’s eyes upon her and kept her own averted. She distantly wished for the wolves to return. ”Many have become priestesses of the Lady.”

Keaira could not help the short, bitter laugh that burst from her lips, regretting the action instantly.

“You find that amusing? Keaira?” It was not an accusation.

“No, Lady Priestess. No, I don’t find it amusing at all.” The teenager turned away to hide the tears suddenly brimming in her eyes, “Not at all…” She walked off before the priestess could question her.

~ by eeratka on January 26, 2007.