Wednesday has come around again, and I’m happy to present this week’s flash fiction.
From her patio seat, Tara glowered over the verdant valley. She wished to be anywhere else. Those below would wish they were in her place, but they didn’t contest with what she did. Tara sighed. Not that their plights were easier. The object of her annoyance flashed on her periphery.
Tara frowned at the copper bowl regretting that they’d brought it out again. She would have to dip her fingers in the waters and bless the year. Her obligation to her God and to those below.
A soft cough sounded nearby. Kenan clearing his throat. “Priestess,” he murmured, calling her to her duty.
Tara shifted, lowering her legs to the ground. She pushed herself out of the chair. “I know.”
“It is nearly noon.”
“I am aware.” She shifted her gaze to Kenan. He wore plan robes. Even so, once she dreamt of wearing such quality cloth. Now hers were finer still, embroidered with great detail. She’d rather return to the rough farm clothes she’d grown up with.
Her gaze flicked to the copper bowl as she stepped toward it. Pausing at the pedestal, Tara placed her hands on the cold stone and stared into the waters. Their empty reflection beckoned her.
“Is something amiss?” Kenan asked, worry in his voice.
Tara shook her head. She could offer him no explanation he would understand.
Pausing, Tara feared Kenan would press her. Shaking his head, he repeated, “It is nearly noon.”
Tara didn’t respond. Instead, she switched her gaze back to the bowl, lifted one hand from the pedestal, and dipped her fingertips into the water.
The chill from the water surged through her as the faintest trickle of steam twisted skyward. Tara pressed her lips together, trying to prevent a shudder.
She knew her offering would bring a pleasant summer. For her family. For her God. She but wished she’d known she would live an eternal winter.
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Be sure to check out the other Wednesday Words authors’ take on the prompt.
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