“It’s been hard, Nana. The crops have failed, and rot has gotten to the orchards. I bought the best apples I could find. I know you and Papa loved them,” said Absinthe.
The Neese brought her daughter to the Ancients’ Shrine so her mother could see the baby and for a blessing.
“Dunnel left for the coast to work on the fishing boats. He plans to send dried fish in a week so we have food for the Winter,” said the woman.
Absinthe lifted her daughter skyward and recited the ancient words. “Land of green and sky of blue bring prosperity to the people and those yet to come.”
“I miss you, Nana. I miss how you could make us laugh in the dark times. Please send rain and cool winds so the grain will grow,” the Neese said.
Absinthe placed the baby back and then bowed to the altar. “See you in my dreams. We can talk there, and no one will bother us,” whispered the woman.
Absinthe walked down the stone steps to the thick grass. She turned back for a last look and said, “Be of joy, Nana.”
Absinthe hummed a tune her mother had taught her long ago to help the baby sleep. Reaching the stone wall, the woman felt something cool touch her cheek.
Reaching to wipe it away, she smiled and saw the raindrop cling to her fingertip. The drop cast a tiny rainbow on her daughter’s face.
“Thank you, Nana,” said Absinthe as she crossed the wall and opened the gate to her farm.
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