Wings Over Tremeirchson

  ***

  Later that evening, Nest walked to the fountain with her mind full of warring thoughts. Elen noticed immediately.

  “Tell me,” she ordered.

  “Tell you what?” Neste asked, twisting a length of hair in her fingers and staring at it as if it was fascinating.

  “Your thoughts are miles away.”

  Neste sighed. She and Elen shared everything always. “I’m considering breaking my betrothal.” She waited for Elen to jump for joy.

  Instead, concern darkened her friend’s face. She took Neste’s hand in hers. “Oh, fy cyfaill, I know how hard this decision is for you. Is it right?”

  “It feels right in the barn. Elsewhere…” Her voice trailed off. Reaching a hand up for the comfort of a stone flank, Neste discovered she had chosen to sit beneath Ystrad instead of Aer. Ystrad, the earth horse. Her father had been earth, as was her mother. Nurturing, healing, caring—these were earth characteristics. Da cared for her and gave her to Hoel. Her heart twisted.

  “Neste…” Elen hesitated.

  Neste squeezed her friend’s hand. Words were unnecessary. She basked in the silent support.