Theora rocked back on her heels as she observed the tub full of…white. There was bed linen, table linen, napkins, aprons and more. All sorts, soaking now. But for how long? Theora made a mental note to ask Froma. Laundering was one thing that she had rarely done at home and it wasn’t quite as easy as washing up. Stifling a sigh she turned her gaze around the kitchen. Various girls and a few men had passed through, laughing, talking and having fun. It made her miss her family. She’d seen Iswyn and exchanged a few words, but they were both busy. Deliberately she made herself stop moaning and get on with her work.
She dried her hands on her apron as she looked for Froma to find out what to do next. He smiled as he saw her.
“Overwhelmed?” he asked kindly. Theora began to nod, then stopped herself.
“I’ll be fine” she said determinedly. “What shall I do now?”
“I’ll show you” Froma answered, then led the way to a little table in the corner of the kitchen. On it was a cup, a plate of bread and cold meat, and a number of chickens.
“First” he began, holding up one thick finger “you eat. Second, pluck these chickens. Third, you take a break- stay here if you want, or visit the market. This afternoon you can get on with the washing. Will that do?” he asked with a twinkle in his eye. Theora smiled back gratefully.
[ July 16, 2003: Message edited by: Lyra Greenleaf ]
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“Sylphs of the forest,” I whispered. “Spirits of oak, beech and ash. Dryads of Rowan and hazel, hear us. You who have guided and guarded our every footstep, you who have sheltered our growth, we honour you."
the Forbidden Link
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