Difference between revisions of "Logs:The choice is made."

"Edyis, you should consider the offer more carefully; before you cast such an opportunity aside." Gretvyn's voice was gentle, but firm. "You are of an age where you should understand the position our family is in."

She looked so much older as she said the words, and it was an uncomfortable realization for Edyis, even as they sat in the familiar warmth of the hold's kitchen.

"Your father is gone; the fields are ash, and we will only make it through the winter by being very frugal..." She continued, blue-grey eyes resting on Edyis her expression something between compassion and determination. "...if we dip into funds set aside for other purposes."

Edyis watched silently, as her stepmother put both hands on either side of the bowl of potatoes, bracing herself against the table with a sigh. The young girl couldn't remember a time when she had seen the older woman look so lost.

"We are at the mercy of those vying for position until the conclave confirms an heir. Things may get worse before they can get any better." Gretvyn continued.

It was a lot to ask, and both of them knew it, but there weren't any other options. If they used what was set aside for Edyis's dowry, it could make all the difference between survival or being forced to abandon the hold. If Edyis impressed, she would no longer need it. Gretvyn wasn't cold, just practical. She also was thinking of her stepdaughter's well-being. Candidates were well looked after while in the care of the Weyr.

Edyis wasn't sure what to say. She knew her stepmother was right, knew that her younger siblings survival too was at stake, but the whole idea frightened her. She had never been one of those children who wanted to become a rider, a harper maybe, but never a rider.

Gretvyn broke the silence, "I know it isn't what you expected, wanted, or planned. I know it isn't what your father would have wanted for you either, but we can only deal with the opportunities in front of us. Please at least think about it sweetheart. Not just for you, but for your brother and sisters as well."

What other choices could she have made in that situation?

"I will stand at High Reaches Weyr." Her soft soprano wavered.

The choice was made, now all that was left was to find the courage to live with it.