Fae Touched

"oh my dear little one there are so many faeries in your ears right now, the ceremony is in only a few hours and you're here laid out worrying about nothing you can control". Her mother chided floating about her room placing laundry in their correct drawers and placing her blankets over her, tucking her in. Her mother's gaze was always so soft and kind, it felt like warm sunshine on her skin. "Now, I know you aren't going to sleep since your big day is just after midnight, but please remember to rest. You'll need all the energy you can get to be a proper lady at this dinner". Ivy closed her eyes tight groaning and leaning back "I know mom, I'm just working on a new piece before I get sent off to get eaten". Ivy's mom tapped her on the back of the head "don't you speak that way young lady. You're coming back tonight and that's that. You have a little sister on the way and I'm going to need all hands on deck. Plus what about that Steven boy? You said you wouldn't mind it if he ever fancied you didn't you. Just keep you head down little one and speak softly. When I had my day things were calm and cordial and then some girls left with them and most went back home. We even still see some of those who have left from time to time. No one gets eaten". Her mother kept trailing on and on almost trying to comfort herself more than Ivy.

Her precious few last hours passed and her mother knocked "it's time Ivy, the moon is in position". "one moment mom! just a couple more smudges..." Ivy put the last touches on her coal sketch before reluctantly leaving her warm bed and opening the door. Her mother brushed her hair and pinned it as was custom. She pulled out the traditional dress for her oldest daughter and helped Ivy into it. "on your walk, remember, no picking up anything from the ground, if you see wild animals you know which ones to yell at and which ones to play dead at, and god forbid you come across strangers in this place full of familiar faces". Ivy rolled her eyes having heard this many times before "I know mom. By the way.. I know I stole this piece of wood from our fire pile, and I'm a little sorry about that, but, I was hoping to make something for you and dad just in case". Ivy presented her mother with her newest piece proudly to her mother, eyes already glossy, now full tears streaming down her lovely cheeks. Feeling frustrated by her daughter's words but so proud and cherishing her daughter's hard work she accepted the sketch "you are coming back ivy. that isn't a question."

Ivy had said her goodbyes with big hugs to her father and mother and began to walk along the familiar path to the town center. Usually she would be walking here mid afternoon to sit among a small crowd of all ages to listen to the bards telling fantastical stories and singing wonderful songs. Today was a bit different and she had an uncomfortable feeling about it.