a woman's mind and the autumn sky

The wet and cool weather was a blessing, but the cover of the hut that the boys had built at Raijin's direction only made his absence more palpable. She had sat down with Fuji and had the discussion. As healers, they were on the same page. The climate was too much for Erik and Morganna, and when she had explained her heart, her daughter, though clearly disappointed, had given her blessing. Besides, with Sedna vacating the position, it would give Fuji the opportunity to pursue her truest interest.

The other children were well enough and old enough to make up their own minds about whether they would stay or go. They were yearlings now, capable of making their own choices and she wasn't going to hold them back one way or another. She had no destination in mind, they needed to get away from this moisture and humidity though, before spring was in full swing and Morganna sprouted herself another garden.

Seeking out Tori wasn't hard, the man had his habits, and while they might have been disturbed temporarily due to the sudden influx of children, they all seemed to be doing quite well. "Hattori..." Her voice faltered for just a moment, he had shown her a great kindness in taking her in, in sharing his culture, in giving her children his name. Why were the backs of her eyes stinging? There was no pollen in the air to be causing allergies. "He isn't coming back, is he?"