A soft mist rolled over the river that morning, curling through the wildflowers and up the stone paths of Hatchmere. The villagers were already stirring โ market stalls opening, hatchlings stretching their wings by the nursery hearth โ when a gentle fragrance drifted through the square.
It smelled of honey, rain-soaked soil, and something else โ life itself, waking up.
From the bend in the river came a woman leading a small handcart piled high with clay pots and mossy crates. A tiny golden dragon perched atop them, tail flicking lazily.
โMind the mint, Miriath,โ the woman murmured, steady voice like wind through grass. โYouโve already singed two leaves today.โ
She wore a cloak the color of new leaves and carried herself with that unhurried confidence that belongs only to those who understand the rhythm of things โ of growth, of patience, of gentle power. Her smile was quiet, but when she looked at the villagers, the world seemed to pause for a heartbeat.
โIโm Claralyn,โ she said, setting a pot of white blossoms on the edge of the fountain. โBut most just call me the BloomMother. Iโve come to tend your herbs, your hatchlings, and perhapsโฆ a few tired hearts.โ
The golden dragon gave a tiny sneeze, releasing a puff of glittering pollen into the air. The flowers around the fountain unfurled as if waking from a nap.
She laughed softly.
โWell then,โ she said. โI suppose Hatchmereโs soil is ready for a new season.โ