For the Téchni, each season was dedicated to specific activities. Spring was for taking stock of things damaged by the winter wind and snows. Summers were for repair and for building new things. Autumn was for installing newly built things and otherwise preparing the domas for the cold. Winter was for sitting by the fire, …
Monthly Archives: February 2018
Keeping Warm – Part 5
Winter Beelo took a deep breath. As he exhaled, he carefully released the string of his bow and sent and arrow sailing across the meadow. From Beelo’s point of view, it looked less like he shot the arrow at the lapina and more like the arrow was drawn to the furry creature. The arrow flew …
Keeping Warm – Part 4
Beelo woke in his bed. He dripped sweat and his heart pounded in his chest. He sat up and looked around. He was confused at first, then felt relieved to be safe in his bed. Then came the sadness as Beelo remembered he would never see his brother again. Sadness to think that Tara would …
Keeping Warm – Part 3
A scream woke Beelo. He was startled to find himself in the rocking chair in the main room. He blinked and looked around and heard another scream, this time louder and closer. Beelo bolted for the front door. Both of the coat hooks next to the door were empty. He undid the latches and furiously …
Keeping Warm – Part 2
Beelo sat cross-legged on the rug and watched his family finish their evening meal. A delicious stew filled his stomach and warmed him from the inside out. A brass stove on the other side of the room filled the air with a glowing warmth. The combined effect of the food and the heat made Beelo …
Keeping Warm – Part 1
Autumn Beelo shivered. The south wind whistled through the bare limbs of his tree and seeped through the seams of his ankle-length hooded coat. The chill was uncomfortable but it kept Beelo alert and focused. This would be the last year he could wear this coat. The one his mother made him. Kintu, Beelo’s wife, …