An Early Winter - Prt 01

The quote “Time and tide wait for no man.” is an odd saying and yet oftentimes I find myself amazed at the fluidity of time itself and how some moments in life can last for what seems an eternity and how years can pass one by in an instant.

Five years have passed since my arrival in High March and those have passed without event or incident much to my own surprise. The whole of the township simply accepting that I am Sarah Owen's daughter without protest or question.

Of my other self, I hear whispers of now and again. Nothing so grand as a hero’s tale sadly the majority of news often relayed by members of the High Church who it seems has gone to great lengths to paint me as some evil witch spreading the seeds of ruin across the lands of Sarnia or in some cases a murderous rogue killing whom ever crosses my path.

It could be worse I guess but I honestly don't see how.

Ursa Blacksong - 92nd of Autumn YSTR 112

…

The chill of a coming winter storm hung heavy in the early morning air as she had dressed for the day before heading downstairs to join Sarah for breakfast. Ursa’s gaze drifting towards the window and the mountains beyond taking note that the snow had already started to cover the peaks of the lower ridges and would no doubt reach the township come nightfall or the next morning at the latest.

“It seems it's going to snow soon,” Ursa commented to Sarah as she took her seat at the breakfast table.

“Indeed it does seem so.” Sarah agreed with a nod of her head before drinking her morning tea. “ I had been hoping that we might be able to manage another trip or two into the vale to collect some additional items before the winter season but I fear it may already be too late for that now.”

Ursa thought for a moment before speaking.“ Well, I don’t have any pressing concerns today so I could make a quick trip if you’d like.” She offered as she drank from her tea.” Is there anything special I should be looking for? ”

…

Collecting her belongings Ursa pulled her fur-trimmed winter cloak from the hook by the cottage door and draped it over her shoulders before turning to Sarah who was looking on with some concern.

"You really don't have to dear. I'm certain have enough for the season." She offered. "

" I know, but better to have more than enough than to fall short a month before spring. " Ursa Offered. “ So you keep an eye out for Lavender, Catmint, Black Samson, and Dew of the Sea.” Ursa offered aloud.

“And some Thyme and Oregano if you chance to come across any. ” Sarah added.

Ursa nodded her understanding. “ I’ll keep an eye out.”

“ Whatever can be found really, you never really know what people might willing to pay extra for during the winter months.” Sarah offered off hand.

Ursa again nodded her understanding. “ So I'm thinking I’ll take the river road south to the Four Corner’s and have a look around the old ruins. There wasn’t really much there the last time and given we haven’t returned for the whole of the season. I suspect there should be something growing out there now.” Ursa paused in thought for a brief moment then and then shrugged. “ And if I have no luck there I’ll head towards the caves by the falls and see if I can find anything there.”

Sarah frowned in worry.“ Autumn dear, Goddess knows you are fearless about these things but after the Four Corners, I'd suggest trying the woodlands around Hammer Rock before chancing the caves. I shouldn’t have to remind you that there are unnatural spirits that linger in those caves that can prove a danger even to you.” She cautioned.

“ Alright, then…” Ursa agreed. “ ...the Four Corners and then Hammer Rock and only the Caves by the Falls if nothing is to be found elsewhere.”

Sarah nodded her approval resting her hand on Ursa's shoulder. “ And I know you have that sword of yours hidden under your skirts dear but I would prefer you carry something to guard against the unseen. Just in case you have need . ”

Ursa smirked. “ I have several mother, you have no need to worry about that.”

…