Bronagh knelt by the fire as Azura rose, counting on everyone to be staring at Azura and not at her. She was wearing a long cream colored tunic that fell to mid-thigh and matching cream colored leggings. The front of the sleeveless tunic was decorated with porcupine quills arranged in chevrons of varying sizes, in seemingly random patterns. A single swan feather arched over the chevrons, following the line of her shoulders.<br/>Bronagh had seen the patterns in a dream involving Water Dragon almost a full turn of the seasons ago, and it had taken her nearly that long to learn how to make the ceremonial outfit and then actually make it. She had never been able to fathom what the patterns meant, no one had. Azura had said that they might be of some importance to Water Dragon, and if he felt it necessary to enlighten them, then he would. Otherwise it was pointless to keep guessing.<br/>With the curious patterns of chevrons from Water Dragon, the porcupine quills forming the chevrons, and the swan feathers arching over the whole design, Bronwyn's totems and her mentor were all represented. Tonight was the first time she had ever worn the outfit, and she had mixed feelings about it. She wished she could be as secure in her spiritual world now as she had been back then.<br/>At Azura's signal, Bronwyn doused the fire, plunging the cave into complete darkness. Azura spoke to the cave in her clear, ringing voice, and as she spoke the last word, Bronagh leaned over and struck her fire rocks together, sparks flying and landing on the fresh pile of tinder in the new rock lined hearth. Seconds later, one caught and the flame grew.<br/>Bronagh fed the fire as her mentor sprinkled fragrant herbs over the flames, completing the fire-lighting ceremony. Once it was well established, Bronagh stood up, brushing dirt and soot off her hands.<br/>"Well done, my young acolyte." Azura said quietly as Bronagh sidled up to her.<br/>"Well taught, wise shaman." Bronagh corrected. The entire cave danced and celebrated, laughter and happy shouts filled the cave. The fermented beverage that everyone loved so much always made Bronagh feel sick, and she passed it on as she always did when it was passed to her. Despite her feelings of relief and gratitude to the great Mother, Bronagh felt distanced from the festivities. It was a feeling she was used to, but it was much more pronounced tonight. She was feeling hot again, sweat trickling down her face and the small of her back.<br/>"I'm going for a walk," she said to the Azura, knowing the Shaman would hear and understand the layers of meaning beneath her words. It had always been so with the two of them, not many words needed to be said.