AN ETERNAL LOVE

You simply must come to the meeting today, Adira. People will think it odd if you don't. The new Church minister is here!"

Aunt Helen fussed with the skirts of the new dress that Adira had made for her, then stopped herself. "Vanity," she said. "At my age, one would not think it a sin that would tempt me."

"Wishing to look one's best when greeting a newcomer is not vanity, Aunt Helen," Adira told her sternly. "It is simply good manners."

"If you knew so much about good manners, child," her dear Aunt said, "you would accompany me to church."

Aunt Helen made her eyes soft and pleading, like those of a child coaxing for a sweet. And again Adira marveled at how youthful and vigorous her Aunt had grown under her care.

"Please come with me, Adira."

Adira closed her eyes in defeat. "Oh, all right. But if he is as fond of shouting and pounding his Bible as the last one was, I shall get up and leave."

Aunt

was only teasing and went to the bedroom they shared to fix her hair and put on one of her own new dresses of fine fabric and cut. She could not help but think it was a far cry from

said so. She wore her hair down and flowing all the time unless she was in town. And she was often tempted to do so publicly as well, to show them what she thought of their customs. However, she had not forgotten the lessons she had learned. It was best to keep her strange ways to

had

not escaped the notice of some people. She could feel the eyes on her, hear the gossip in the

the danger in the air... yet. But she felt it drawing slowly, unescapably

acquired a modest wagon, and she hurriedly went outside to put Onyx into her harness. Her poor mare hated towing the thing, and she could not say that she blamed her. However, the sight of her

the moment Adira had the wagon ready, a large basket in her hands filled with food for the meal that would follow services. Adira helped her into the seat, then climbed in beside her and clicked her

though she detested it, she did look fine pulling the wagon, feet stepping

the ocean, carrying the sea scent she so loved along with it and caressing her face and hair. A few strands fell loose, but she was enjoying the ride far too much to fuss over them. They traveled the worn track they called the Coastal

earth's power here as she never had before, and perhaps it was not all because of the forces moving in and around this wild, new land. Perhaps it was another bit of