Chapter Three, Reading # 22

"I hope so."
"All this talking has made me hungry," Leudh said in a light tone to change the subject. "I think it's time to enjoy your Grandma's cooking."
"May I have two pieces of ham?" Arek asked.
"I think so," Dakra said with a smile, "but only after you've finished the first."
"Let's eat by the fire," Flindra suggested. "It's nice and warm here."
"All right," Dakra agreed.
Brehwan and Flindra helped Dakra serve the food and then all grew quiet.
Dakra bowed her head in reverence. "Beloved Spirit," she said softly. "Bless this food and all those gathered here today."
"Let it be so," Leudh responded.
Dakra pressed several helpings on Flindra's plate to ensure she would be leaving well fed. A hot meal under the ribs did much to stave off the cold.
When Flindra could eat no more she put her plate aside. Icy immediately made herself at home on her lap. She patted the kitty as she sipped her cider. "That was wonderful, Momma. Thank you."
"I'm glad you enjoyed it."
"You're cooking has always been wonderful," Leudh said as he stacked his plate on top of the one Flindra had set on the hearth. "Your cooking is wonderful, too, Brehwan," he quickly added as he looked at his wife.
She smiled at him with a hint of mischief in her eyes. "Who do you think taught me to cook your favorites?"
Leudh glanced at his mother and laughed.
Flindra finished the last of her cider and glanced out the window. "The sun's almost up. I guess it's time for me to be on my way," she said in a tiny voice.
Instead of just putting Icy on the floor, she lifted her and handed her to Alek. "Would you boys take care of Icy and the dogs?"
He nodded as tears touched his eyes. "Gladly."
She stood. The others immediately were on their feet.
"I'll go saddle Deru," Leudh offered. "Boys, why don't you come help me." The twins followed their father from the cottage without a word.
Dakra was weeping as she handed a pair of saddlebags filled with food to Flindra. "This is nothing fancy, but it will keep you fed on your journey."
"Thank you, Momma." She took the bags and draped them over her arm.