Starting The Day With A Song

It was that time of the morning when you could feel daybreak edging closer but not there yet. The light from the stars and moon hadn’t been infiltrated by the brightness of the sun beginning to rise, just yet. Clear and crisp, it was this time of day.

There was no movement from the tents, as everyone else was fast asleep. First watch was a rarity for the young huntress as she was usually out catching the morning meal during this time but she couldn’t really do that with the boy with them, at least not for the moment. She poked at the small fire so it wouldn’t go out completely before getting up.

No need to triple check, double worked just fine and as soon as Islana was certain everyone was not stirring anytime soon, she headed towards the horses. Standing in front of them all the horses looked at her. It had gotten remarkably easier to get their attention since the trip to Aquilo began. Maybe, it was just that they were used to Islana by now, or maybe….Islana refused to dwell on the issue as there were other matters to take care of at the moment.

I am sorry to all of you but we are going to have to leave you behind tomorrow. We need to help the boy. We will be back soon.

Hoping that last part was true.

She petted each one, arriving at River last.

I know, I got you into this. I’m so sorry. You know I would never leave you behind if I didn’t have to.

River looked at her nodded and put his forehead down, Islana put her own forehead against the palomino.

If anyone tries to steal you, bite them or kick them or do what you have to.

River whined and moved his head up and down in a semi-circular motion.

I guess you're ready then.

*Chirp* *Chirp*

The sound beckoned Islana to look up into the trees. A small finch perched on one of the branches was looking at her.

The young woman glanced around, it seemed still safe and was too dark for anyone to really see much.

Shutting her eyes and holding out her arms with her palms up.

Come to me.

The feel of something landing on her forearm could be felt. Opening her green eyes, to see the little yellow bird on her arm. Crooking her arm, slowly as to not scare the bird

You are up early.

It chirped at her and moved up to her shoulder, looking behind her, chirped again Islana turned around and just realized the sun was rising.

Good morning, then.

The bird turned around so it was facing forward, then began to sing, in a kind of warbly noise, that was beautiful to Islana’s ears.

When the bird finished, it went back onto the young woman’s forearm. She lifted the bird up slightly.

Thank you, that was a wonderful start to the day.

Her hand felt the soft feathers as she gently petted the bird.

I have things to do. Go.

The little bird flew off. Islana gave one last goodbye to River and the horses and went back by the fire. The redhead watched the sky turn to brilliant colors as the day began.