Storms like these last many days in Forochel, it is always wise to prepare the homesteads with lasting food, water and warmth. It had been a long stretch this time, this storm, though they were unsure the exact amount of days. The hut was dark except for the flicker of light from the large fire, the whole family was sat about it, conversations had been lead and driven, though one did not participate.
Rhoana had barely spoken or slept and she looked weak. She chose not to eat, and forgo all matter of survival herself. At length her family muttered amongst themselves, clearly unsure as to what they should do to aid her. Riku suddenly stood and spoke to her, softly and quietly.
“Pikku, my little sister…come and eat with me, eh? It is a good catch, just for you my pikkuinen, Rhoana.”
Rhoana did not look at him as he spoke, wrapping her arms about her legs and staring at the floor. She seemed stern and anxious, not like the Rhoana they had grown with, who used to be so joyful and inspired by life. She enthused about the slightest and smallest of things she would happen across. Riku noted his failings to stir her and moved back to where he had been sitting, his manner altogether glum.
Little Lahja – Rhoana's younger sister - was looking restless, she would have only been a child, and she did not understand the anxiety in the room. She had been told to remain quiet and sit. And so she watched her sister, Rhoana, ignore all that was around her, in confusion and perplexity. Rhoana was close to Lahja, as close as she was to Riku. Lahja was the youngest of all the siblings and far removed in age. Rhoana was the eldest of the sisters, between Lahja and herself there was Kaija and two brothers, Kye and Veli. The two other brothers were older then Rhoana, Esa and Riku. Rhoana would take Lahja everywhere and play many a game for hours at length. For now, Lahja could not understand what had befallen her sister’s mood, but it upset her greatly. She shuffled herself around the room inconspicuously, over a long period of time, until she reached her despairing older sister..
Rhoana finally looked toward her, her expression was vacant and empty and she remained silent. Lahja returned the gaze in a similar manner before nuzzling under Rhoana’s arm and cuddling up to her soft cloak and side. Rhoana held her tightly and closed her eyes, she felt a slight comfort as she waited, the sound of the howling wind lessening in volume….
