| Board : | |
| Author : | |
| Subject : | |
| Date : | |
|
~A journal of The Kingdoms~ III The Tale of a Serpent's Kindness The time would come where the demands of sacrifice would sit close too close to the heart. I visited Mage Wand as usual for spell tutorage, to be told debt would be some coin, a book, ink, and 5 pieces of fine quality snake meat. I resisted the urges in my body; nausea, tension. I understand the principles of respect, and the great value the mage mentors provide to the community. But Wand and I had talked at length about my aspirations; connecting with my kindred, my childhood away from here, about the dreams, the voices. Surely he knew this was a cruel act? I felt the burning in my gut as rage crept up into my chest and face. My jaw tightened and my fists clenched. My mouth opened to curse him. I let out an almighty HISSSS, much to my confusion before I abruptly snapped my jaw shut. Wand's smile was gentle, as if he understood my heartache. "The serpent understands her sacrifices, you are learning yours. You share purpose." I strode quickly as silent tears fell whilst I walked to the inns for rest. Reluctancy had already set in for fear of seeing anyone. I was thankful that the clouds had cast the sky and the rain poured soaking me entirely. But as I reached the Eastern Gate, the Valley pulls my attention. I saw her eyes first, piercing gold as her body camouflaged with the shrubs surrounding her. A tiny snake with jade green skin, and even though daylight was blunted, the tip of her tail also shimmered gold. Did she also know the sacrifice? "Sssee the Mother..." She said to my mind. I continue my travels, San-Tei sees me close to the inns and ushers me into her home. There are no others here tonight. Just her and I. I hold no more and sob heavily. San-Tei has been kind since the first night here. I tell her my troubles, she nods with understanding. "Where the young ones are there are serpents waiting for the likes of you. I think you'll know which when you get there." I hate Tangun. Wand still sends me here for my daily quests. How many Palgan foxes must I slay before he gives me another task?! I knew of the lair here. Tall, black towered crystals dominated the entrance. I stepped inside and the air was cool...but dancing? Many Serpents, all docile, dancing to the beat of the air whipping passed their tails. My eyes lock with one to the right, as if she knew and was waiting; the same golden eyes I'd seen at home before. "Helloo...you need usss now?" She said to my mind "I can offer sssacrifice" My eyes well up again, sure I cannot do it. Before I could reply she continues. "I have lived well in thisss life...my babiesss all grown. I will be reborn again, as will you, to help othersss come home." Her eyes lifted, as though beaming with content, before she curled round to lay, taking a breath into stillness. Her spirit was gone but the carcass remained. Wand accepted the offering and as promised expanded my mind. A spell I will carry throughout my time here. Her energy, her kindness and her sacrifice will be with me always. ~~R | |