Once a Year’s Watch

Arlinth blew into her snow-frozen hands as she peered into the darkened sky above. The stars stared back with the stark chill of winter. Why tonight of all nights? Once a year the ancient tree bore fruit. Tonight would be that night.

“Arlinth!” a cherry voice called. Turning, she saw Sanym bounding across the frozen drift. “I didn’t miss it, did I?”

Arlinth tucked her hands firmly against her sides. She shook her head. “You know you couldn’t have missed it.”

Sanym slid to a stop, her boots refusing to hold traction. The woman landed on the ground with an oomph. She peered at the tree, smiling. “One never knows.”

Arlinth sighed and extended her hand to Sanym. The woman took it, and briefly Arlinth considered holding on. Sanym’s hands were still fire warmed. Instead, Arlinth withdrew, turning to resuming her vigil.

Snow plopped to the ground as Sanym brushed off before joining Arlinth. “It’s frigid tonight.”

“It’s the middle of winter.” Arlinth found less patience for Sanym’s prattle while half frozen.

“Do you think it’ll take much longer?”

Arlinth sighed deeply. “It will take as long as it takes to bear the fruit.”

Reaching up, she brushed her finger against the silver flat leaves which still clinging to the tree despite winter, wishing the tree would hurry up. Not because she minded waiting, but because she minded the company.

Sanym had already moved on to two new topics before Arlinth lowered her hand.