It’s #BookQW with a ‘test’ of our non-magical heroine.
More from Chapter 1:
Gran patted Fern’s cheek. “Good, lass. I’m glad you’re flexible, because I have some news: I have other inspections to attend to, not to mention they are sticklers about favoritism so don’t want me present on my land for the judging because I’m on the council, too. You must complete your trial on your own.”
“What?” Fern gasped, her mind blank for a moment as she tried to keep up. “You are on… What do you mean my trial?”
“Aye. You asked me to stop keeping secrets from you and the time has come for that.” Gran’s brow creased, her bony fingers crushing Fern’s. “Your work on the Meadows is a test to see if you can restore the land despite having no magic yourself. However, I didna tell them you have no magic. Nor that you are Heather’s child. Keep it secret you are my granddaughter until you pass. Then we shall fix that, best we can. But your mother’s blessing—do you have it?”
“Geez, Gran! I thought we’d tell her together.” Fern’s voice rose. Stressed out much? She clenched Gran’s hand, although what she really wanted to do was throw someone to the ground. “And just how will I do these things? A magical place needs magic.”
“Shh. I have but a minute, dear. I know you’re up to taking charge. ’Tis clear you’ve inherited the touch and tha’ is enough. Because I lifted the barrier that kept others out of the Meadows, they are seeing the lovely flowers you have grown and know it is all your doing. But with the barrier gone”—Gran raised a finger—“take care if you see flickering along our boundaries.”
That was why she wasn’t allowed off the property? And never saw anyone else here either? “No nasty neighbors, then?”
“None,” Gran said cheerily. “In fact”—she dropped her voice as the screen door creaked—“I’ve arranged some help for you, though I have no doubt you can complete our work. Stick to the rules.”
At the doorway, Sir Humus poked in his white-haired head at a height that matched Fern’s. “Lark Fields, you know very well a minute is up. Come along now.” He waved a small, tan globe—glass—attached to his watch chain. “Good day, Mistress Fern.” With a nod, he retreated.
Gran pulled Fern down, as if to kiss her cheek, but instead whispered, “I wish you hadn’t been late, lass. Finish your list as best you can. Get your mother’s blessing. And please feed Hilda,” she added louder. Then she pointed at the guinea pig, said, “You be good!” and went outside, the birds with her.
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Pick up The Witch of the Meadows to join Fern & Beri’s adventure today!
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On a personal note:
The happenings in nearby Washington D. C. occupied me last week, but a greater distraction from posting here was the newest member of our family!
Meet Copper, our 10-12 year old rescue pup. He was very happy to join us on the couch for social distanced viewings of Champ’s and Major’s family.
We found Copper, a Jack Russell and maybe spaniel mix, with a local rescue after his owner passed away. We were drawn to him because he was described as mellow and loving. When we inquired further if he’d get along with cats and not pester our guinea pigs, we were told he had ‘no prey drive.’ Hard to believe for a terrier, but maybe he’s not terrier? Copper is interested in meeting Shuri the cat–but that will be on her terms–and has had several side-by-side sits with the guinea pigs safely in their fleece bags. Copper moved over and might be a little afraid of them.
We’re so happy to have found him, and we think he likes us, too!
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