These Old Bones

Novel lay under the willows, finding the place just as lovely as Ara had said. She felt a soft smile linger on her features as the bright yellow leaves swayed around her in the gentle autumn breeze. Peace finally found the old woman. She felt a relief from her guilt for the first time in years, and though she was no longer surrounded by family she felt like home. 

A soft sigh filtered from her silver lips as her tail twitched contentedly beside her. Sweet little song birds serenaded her with their melody as the peaceful day progressed to noon time. The winter would be difficult on her old bones, already arthritis stiffened her joints and made moving uncomfortable. She sighed heavily then, not for the first time wishing she could turn back time. 

Of course with her knowledge of herbs she could and would make herself a tincture to soothe the pain. But herbs could only do so much for her aching body. She wondered if Ara felt the same pains in herself, she didn't doubt it. 

Placing her head on her paws she prepared herself for a short nap, she was tired so much more often now no matter how much she seemed to sleep.