Maisie McLeod's Arc

Chapter 2 of 6

Maisie needed to learn the old ways properly. She pulled down Granny's leather journal from the shelf and opened it to the first page. The ink had faded, but she could still read the words about gathering supplies and choosing the right wick. The journal said Imbolc candles needed more than beeswax and flame. They needed blessing. Maisie closed the book and wrapped her shawl tight. She walked through the village until she reached the old stone cottage at the edge of the woods. Smoke curled from the chimney. She knocked three times. The hedge witch opened the door and nodded once. Inside, dried herbs hung from the rafters. The woman spoke of Brigid's fire and the return of light. She taught Maisie the words to say while dipping the wicks. Back home, Maisie walked to the small stone shed behind her cottage. Ice covered the turf roof like frozen lace. She pulled open the wooden door. Peat blocks sat stacked against the walls. She grabbed three pieces and carried them inside. The fuel would keep her fire steady while she worked. She set up the iron stand in the yard near the door. The tripod legs gripped the frozen ground. She arranged the peat underneath and struck her flint. Smoke rose first, then flame. Her iron pot fit perfectly on top. Now she could melt her wax outside and keep the cottage clean. Maisie smiled. Granny would see she'd done it right this time.