Redhawk Caldera the still earth

Even if she’d had the strength, Ani would not have resisted Chickadee’s clutching embrace. She snuggled her face into her sister’s neck, withdrawing a moment later to angle her head so she could look into the other girl’s face.

I would never leave you, Ani said, pressing a smile to her sister’s cheek.

She considered Chickadee’s question before replying. She had never known such physical malaise. But her sunny spirit persisted, warming her. The companionship certainly helped too.

I’ll be okay, she decided to reassure, and I could eat a little. I really want to see if I can sit up and maybe walk a bit. It sounds weird but lying here is exhausting.

Bracing herself against Chickadee, Ani tried to push herself upright. Her chest ached. She grimaced but persisted. A tremor passed through her, though she paid it no attention. Her muscles must be weak after so many days of disuse.