first frost

The boy seemed surprised at seeing her garden in such a state of emptiness and death. That was simply the way of things though. The plants that could be pulled were slowly getting pulled. The plants that would last through the winter were getting wrapped in the plethora of skins that she had amassed. It would protect them against the frost and snow. They would go into a dormant state until spring when she would unwrap them again.

Indigo questioned her about where they got their herbs from during the winter and Iolaire laughed aloud. "Come on..." She motioned for him to follow her back into the cottage. Once inside, she took him into a side chamber. Lining the ceiling were long, thing willow branches. Hanging from them were various herbs that were in different states of drying. "Once they dry, they get put into different containers. We use these during the winter since we won't have fresh. Some herbs are more potent when dried as well." Back in the main chamber, she pointed to the plethora of containers lining the wall. "Most of these are dried herbs. Others are salves. Everything is ready for winter. Then we'll have all spring and summer to harvest for the following winter." She grinned at the boy, hoping that he was absorbing it all.