Redsand Canyon iv: the wind, unchained

Almost at once, the reality of her situation rang deep like a bell in her head — not that the thought was ever too far from her main attention anyways, but it had been nice to get out, stretch her legs, and at least pretend as if everything was fine. That Oaxaca was still alive, that her daughter would make the move with the rest of her family, that everyone went to bed with full bellies and that Olive never had to live knowing she had disappointed someone. She seemed to disappoint a great many people, though she suspected this wasn’t the actual truth, it weighed heavy upon her heart.

So she prayed to the gods often and sought their advice. They spoke in riddles and made her work to scry their meanings, but when she eventually decoded the language of her intuition, their guidance lay as clear as day. Though she worried often, she knew that by taking action and ownership of the health of her family, their future was secured. The gods had cemented their fate, and Olive sealed it with a kiss. It had been a lifetime of trial and error, but Olive finally felt secure in that she and the gods were on the same side.

Why she must always lose a baby, just to learn that lesson — the woman decided she may never know. 

However, the other woman’s empathy towards their situation was palpable; and it was the sincerity of which that caught Olive and held her attentions fully. How fortunate was she, to be placed in the path of so many others who wished charity upon her, with their offers of their time and care? With an appreciative sway of the head, Olive acknowledged the sisterly empathy and allowed herself to steep in the vibrations that emanated from the stranger so strongly.  In a tone that read there is no need to worry, not any more, the shrouded sylph said “Oh, my family — we are not staying here.” She paused, returning the woman’s kindhearted conviction. “You should not, either. These lands need to heal.”