Truly Tan Baffled

‘Do tell!’ says Amber. ‘Negative,’ I say. ‘My lips are sealed.’

‘The Winter Solstice approaches,’ says Rose quietly, ‘and with it comes deep change, unrest, a quickening . If you need me to pull an oracle card, Tan, just say so. I am here to guide you. To guide all of you,’ says Rose, glancing around the table. She is still wearing her hooded cloak. It is hard to see her eyes. They are deep in shadow. Just like Rose. ‘A card reading would be lovely, dear,’ says Mum. ‘But eat your peas first.’ WINTER SOLSTICE: this is also called midwinter . But Winter Solstice sounds better. Winter Solstice is a special day because, of all the days on the calendar, this day has the shortest amount of daylight and the longest night of the entire year. It can feel a bit spooky so that’s why it’s nice to make lanterns and build bonfires and have a festival that will keep you feeling busy and cheerful.

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