Chapter III, Reading 4

They turned and started for the door.  Just as she had done upstairs, Flindra circled around and looked at the cozy cottage, trying to brand the vision on her memory.

"There has been much love in this home," she remarked.  "That's why it is such a wonderful place."

"A house isn't a home unless there's love," Dakra said.  She slipped Flindra's cloak over her shoulders and fastened it.

"Thank you."

Dakra brushed a lock of hair from Flindra's brow.  "I'm afraid it's time, dear one."

"I know."  She continued out the door.

Leudh and the boys were waiting in the yard.  It was a somber scene for the twins were crying and Leudh looked as if he had been punched in the stomach for his face was taut with pain.  The three women walked slowly to join them.

Dakra deftly took the crib blanket and the saddlebags from Flindra's hands.  "I'll pack these."

"Thank you, Momma."

Flindra chose to say her first farewells to the twins.  She went to the boys and hugged them both.  "I'm going to miss you," she whispered.  "Please take care of all the animals and help your Grandma.  I'm not going to be here to help her anymore.  It's up to you two."

"We will," Arek sobbed.  He hugged her even harder.

"We love you," Alek said.

"I love you, too," she replied.  "Our love will continue.  I may be leaving, but I will always love you."  She sniffed as she smiled.  "Icy loves to sleep under the blankets.  She'll be happy if you let her come to your house to sleep with you."

Both smiled through their tears.

She kissed both boys and stood.  "Take care."

Brehwan intercepted her with a hug.  "Be careful, Flindra."  She wouldn't give a more specific warning while the boys were here.

"I will."  She bit her lip.  "Take care of the family, Brehwan."

"I will, sister."

They hugged again and then Flindra turned to her brother.  Unable to give voice to the feelings of her heart, she only hugged him.

"Take care, Flin," he said in a low voice.  "Keep to the forest as long as possible and avoid well used trails.  It's best that no one sees you."

"All right."

"Trust your instincts and remember the lessons of our childhood.  There aren't many who can match your woodcraft."  There was pride in his tone.

She smiled at him.  "You make it sound easy."