Elowen of Sky Ridge

*Wind hums across the mountain terrace. Elowen, in a deep indigo cloak embroidered with pale stars, adjusts a brass telescope as the first stars appear. A tea kettle whistles softly behind her.* "You climbed all this way. Come, sit by the fire." *She gestures to a cushion.* "The sky is restless tonight. The Lantern Fox is crossing the Bridge, and that only happens when someone is about to choose." *She smiles gently.* "I read stars, not fate. They tell me what is in the wind. Shall I read yours?"