Chapter 19 A New Road, A Heavy Cross #2
Kael grins, stealing glances between Theron and me. “It is my pleasure.”
“They all came to welcome you, little dove,” Theron says.
“I’m glad you two are already lovey-dovey,” Kael says, baring his fangs in a . . . smile?
My face heats up instantly, and I’m caught between embarrassment and the need to flee, not entirely sure how to respond.
Kael turns to Theron, his grin widening. “Welcome back, Theron.”
Kael leads us farther into this unbelievable place, with Theron close beside me. I’m glad he stays near. He’s the only one here I know, the only one I can somewhat trust in this strange and beautiful lair of beasts.
“This is the communal gathering area,” Kael says, gesturing to a large open space with stone benches arranged in a circle. “Here, we share stories, hold meetings, and celebrate our traditions.”
Why would vólkins need benches?
I imagine this place filled with giant vólkins sharing their tales under the open sky. There’s an air of timelessness here, as if countless generations have gathered in this spot.
It makes me feel like this place has been standing strong since creation.
As we continue walking, I notice more details.
Hidden within the massive trees are archways carved directly into the trunks, blending so perfectly with the wood’s natural patterns that they almost vanish if you don’t know where to look.
Small shrines, adorned with offerings of flowers and stones that seem lit from within, rest in corners as though they are part of the forest’s very soul.
Each shrine is the shape of a small, wooden figure.
Intrigued, I lean in to examine one of them.
The figure’s face and decorative patterns are beautifully carved into the wood.
“These are crafted to honor the goddesses,” Kael explains, watching me. “Each shrine is shaped in their likeness.”
“For example, Vodínaya, goddess of healing and endurance, loves the water. So our ancestors carved waves into the wood,” Theron says.
I study the carved face. Its expression looks like it’s watching over the forest. Tiny patterns spiral across every figure. Spirals and lines. And small faces.
Following Kael to one of the bridges, I’m aware of the other vólkins moving around us.
Each one is so heavy, their steps make the wood tremble with their weight.
They’re all so large, but even among them, Theron stands out as the most commanding looking.
The vólkins bowed to us, but was it because of me, the so-called ethereal leader, or was it for him as well?
Perhaps Theron holds a place among them that I have yet to understand.
Theron brushes his fingers over my back and draws my attention to a small group of vólkin children playing nearby.
They chase after small, luminous orbs floating through the air.
Their laughter is the most precious thing I’ve ever heard.
It’s been so long since I’ve heard laughter like this, a sound so pure and alive.
I feel a warmth I haven’t felt in years.
“The cubs are taught to respect and care for the spirits of the forest from a young age,” Theron explains. “It’s a crucial part of our culture.”
“They’re very sweet,” I murmur as they jump and run, giggling in delight.
“They are,” he whispers near my ear, close enough to send a thrill down my neck.
He did not have to whisper it like that.
One of the tiny glowing spirits darts in my direction, and the cubs follow, their eyes wide and excited as they chase the orb. Suddenly, more spirits fly over, circling me, each one a small ball of light that glides around me like a dream. I can hardly believe this is real.
“Children! Do not disturb Her Majesty,” calls a gentle voice. “She has only just arrived. Show some respect.”
I turn toward the sound to see a beautiful vólkin female approaching.
She’s smaller than the male vólkins, with dreamy gray fur and the most stunning green eyes I’ve ever seen—an earthy, vibrant shade that seems to hold the warmth of the forest. Wildflowers are woven through her fur, and a small crystal necklace rests at her mane.
Although she doesn’t have crystals on her forehead like the others. I wonder why.
“I am so sorry!” she says, bowing low. “They’ve never seen a human before, let alone our leader.”
The little ones pause, staring up at me with wide-eyed awe.
“Don’t worry.” I smile, glancing back at her. “I already adore them.”
Theron rests a paw on one cub’s head and introduces the female vólkin. “This is Mina,” he says. “She’s a healer and the one who educates the pups.”
“We’re honored to have you here, Your Majesty.” Her voice is so warm, like a gentle melody.
I return her smile. “It is my pleasure, Mina.”
“This is our sacred glade,” Kael explains as we move past a serene area. “A place for reflection and communion with the goddesses. It’s where we come to seek guidance and strength. We perform most of our rituals right here.”
Goose bumps prick my skin. This is where I’ll be able to speak to the goddesses.
My eyes sweep across the glade, taking in the sight before me.
Ancient trees encircle the space, their branches growing together to form a natural dome, the moonlight seeping through in silver rays.
The ground is covered in a plush carpet of moss, its vibrant green color shining.
At the center of the glade stands a stone altar. It’s adorned with strange carvings—spirals, runes, and symbols that throb with an ageless feel as if the goddesses themselves carved them. The sight makes my heart race. This is where I will find my answers.
As the night deepens, Kael brings us to a large, tree-covered area with several platforms woven into the branches.
“These will be your quarters. Theron worked hard on this place.” He winks.
“Thank you, Kael.” I turn my gaze to Theron. Did he build this house? “This place is truly incredible.”
Kael smiles. “Rest well, Your Majesty. Tomorrow, you will meet the elder and begin to understand your role in the prophecy.”
As I walk in, I admire the beautiful home. The path ahead feels overwhelming, but soon, I will be able to talk to the goddesses and ask about my mother. Ask for directions. For anything, really.