(no subject)

[treading_dawn]

In one of the more shadowed corners of the bar something stirs, tawny-gold fur catching the light.

It is a Lion, head coming up off his forepaws, solemn golden eyes watching the patrons as they pass by.

Aslan has been here for quite some time.

Comments

[treading_dawn]

"You, yourself, have done most of the work, daughter. The choice of friends is not so simple as many would have it."

Golden eyes are almost sorrowful, now, as they look at her.

"You have, by now, learned that, as well."

[mistressmaryquitecontrary]

"- I did not," Mary says, simply, "do most of that work by myself."

It is not the choosing of the friend that she means.

[treading_dawn]

"No one would have expected it, child. But allowing others to help is a feat that even some kings have not managed. There is no shame in it."

[mistressmaryquitecontrary]

"That," Mary admits, "is part of what I needed help to find out."

With some hope: "It is another thing I have gotten better at, though."

[treading_dawn]

"You have, child. It is a very great accomplishment."

His tail twitches idly, brushing lightly against his flank.

"Doubtless you will make more, as time passes."

[mistressmaryquitecontrary]

A pause.

Then: "Someone," Mary says, rather hesitantly, "asked me today if I was going to heal people when I grew up. When I told him about my garden."

[treading_dawn]

"And when you answered?"

Golden eyes watch Mary, solemn and unblinking.

[mistressmaryquitecontrary]

The words come out in a rush.

"I think - I think I might like to."

[treading_dawn]

His voice is warm, indeed, when next he speaks.

"Then take heart, child, and set your will toward it. This will do, for a beginning."

[mistressmaryquitecontrary]

Mary lets out a breath that she hadn't known she was holding.

Simply: "I am glad."