Lion Head Mesa Every day like the one before

She smiled, dipping her muzzle closer to the surface to hide it. I was working in the herb garden, she explained, voice shimmering across the water, making tiny ripples. There are plants there that do all kinds of different things for our bodies. They can help make you feel better.

Or worse. Or nothing at all. But this was not Blackfeather Woods, and this child need not know the nuances of poison.

Lots of dirt, she continued briefly, and shrugged. She was quiet for a few moments longer, wading carefully through the pool. Maegi had been somewhat fevered lately, and the chill was a bit of a comfort.

Where is your brother and sister? she asked in casual manner.