On her other side, Maili also embraced her. "What has happened?" she whispered.
Kristina shook her head. She did not want to tell them here and now. "Can one of you help me to my room?"
"Of course." Anna stood.
"I'll come too." Maili took her arm and helped her down from the dais.
Holding her hand, Anna led her up the narrow turnpike stairs. Every time Kristina saw a faint movement or a blurry corner or object, renewed tears of joy filled her eyes.
Once in her chamber, Maili closed the door behind them.
"What caused you to cry?" Anna asked.
Kristina burst into tears… nay, laughter. Laughter and tears at the same time.
"Good heavens." Anna helped her to the chair so she could sit.
"Are you laughing?" Maili asked, sounding bemused.
Kristina nodded. "You will not believe this. I can see!"
"What!" Anna gasped.
"In truth? When did this happen?"
"At supper, I started seeing the candle flame, very dimly at first. And then I saw the blurry form of the servant's pale clothing."
"Oh, 'tis a miracle!" Anna embraced her. "Thanks be to God."
Maili knelt before her. "Can you see me?" She moved her hand from right to left.
"Aye. I see your hand moving."
"This is astonishing. Oh, I'm so happy, Kristina!"
"Do you think my vision will keep improving?"
"I believe it will," Anna assured her.
"Indeed. Remember your dream?" Maili asked. "You must have been talking to your angels."
"I did." Kristina told Anna about the dream in which she had talked to their mother. "That wasn't the first one. I've had a few where Ma told me things in dreams."
"'Tis amazing. She has not visited my dreams. Although John has. My late husband," Anna added for Maili's benefit. "Shall I go get Tavia and have her examine you?"
"If she isn't busy."
"I'll be right back." Anna left the room.
Once the healer had examined Kristina, she said, "I have seen sight return one other time. Could be a miracle or it could be that last blow to the head knocked something back into place for you. I don't ken the how of it. Only the Lord does. Either way, 'tis a wonderful blessing."
"Aye, indeed," Kristina said. "And I'm so thankful."
After Tavia left, Anna said, "Can I tell Neacal?"
"Could you wait? I want to be sure 'tis permanent."
"Aye, but 'twill be hard to keep it from him. And I'm certain it is permanent. It makes sense in a way. A head injury caused your blindness, so 'tis reasonable to think a head injury could also cure your blindness. Oh, you must tell Colin! Surely you will reconsider marrying him now."
