#umata

It wasn’t just her children who were filled with anxiety over the news of her pregnancy. Sparrow was distraught. 

The tribe’s high elder, Umata, had given Sparrow words of comfort. She was a skilled midwife and had delivered several babies in her life, including Sparrow’s close friend Tsala. 

Tsala, who had been blessed by the Watcher with easy pregnancies, could tell this pregnancy of Sparrow’s was weighing heavily on her. It hadn’t exactly been planned or anticipated. 

Eagle listened intently to Umata’s words of comfort, she was trying to absorb as much information to help her dear friend, Sparrow, through this challenging season.

“The last pregnancy of mine was a disaster,” Sparrow groaned. “If this is what the Ancestor’s intend, I will accept this fate, but I worry so.” 

“The ancestors would not grant you this new life in your blood line if it didn’t mean you could handle it,” Tsala offered, but she knew this was of little comfort. Several of her pregnancies had come out complicated times and left her taut with worry. 

“Eat the root of the Twangiit plant twice a day and your child will be blessed with vitality,” Umata said, almost oblivious to the tense atmosphere. 

“Sparrow,” Eagle said in her soft voice. “I know this is so hard for you right now, but you will get through this pregnancy and will be gifted with a beautiful child. We’ll be here every step of the way.” 

The others agreed wholeheartedly. 

Still not convinced, Eagle added, “My prayer bones spelled out your fate last night.” 

The others looked at her keenly. 

“Your child will be healthy and they will carry on your bloodline for many generations.” Eagle, a priestess of bones, had spiritual connection to the future. At her promise, Sparrow allowed herself the smallest reprieve from her anxiety.