I think that the members of the circle that are still alive should present themselves (i.e. post), if not to criticize the texts (one of our purposes here, I think...), to at least affirm the will to keep on with our little game.
Hope you enjoy!!!!
*****
The dying rays of light brought by the sunset gently formed a golden path along the altar room’s floor, giving the old temple’s double doors an aspect of some divine gate, an entrance to the realm of Pelor, the setting sun. Sister Mirine smiled at her thought. As always, the sunset would bring this vision to her, as if Pelor were inviting her to enter his blessed domain. “If you remain true to his teachings”, Father Hearn would say.
Mirine’s smile slowly faded as she remembered the times prior to her entrance to the Sun Dancer monastery twelve years ago. At that time, dusk was full of anxiety and expectancy. She would sit with him, discuss the last points in their plans for the night, reveling in their common feeling for the world that never accepted them. Hatred, that was the feeling that guided them through every night. The dark blood that flowed in Mirine’s veins would give her no other way, she believed. Or that was what he made her believe.
They’ve met in a tragical moment in her life, she was just a eight years girl, but if weren’t for his intervention she wouldn’t live much longer. At that day, her birthday, Mirine was going to experience the fire destined for the witches. The whole village claiming for the death of devilish girl that burned things. It was the time to make justice, fire would be fought with fire.
Justice never came. Instead of it, he flew over the pyre, an angel with bat wings, and, catching the crying child in his arms, traveled miles and miles, singing soothing songs in her ear. That kind gesture would never repeat in the years that followed, but it became branded in Mirine’s heart, forever.
Fighting back the tears, Mirine tried to focus on his mission here. So far, no word of Rusty Wilon reached her. Only a young soldier sought her today, apparently seeking guidance in spiritual matters, but his nervous demeanor made Mirine suspicious. He wasn’t able to tell her anything, but she would not press him, not yet. But he left her with a feeling that he would know something.
Mirine’s thoughts were suddenly interrupted as she noted that someone was standing by the temple’s entrance. Wearing a cloak.
*****
Ellon weren’t given to drinking, but after all the agitation brought to town by Rusty’s return, he couldn’t resist. Afterall, he needed to calm down a little. It is true that the young soldier was now lost in pleasant thoughts, far from all the problems brought by Rusty’s return that Paul was now enumerating to him. Love. Of course, he would never tell Paul the real reason for him to be drinking. Paul was a good friend, but gossip is his vice. And what would Paul think if he knew that he was drinking to gain some courage. He would laugh. And there’s few things more annoying than Paul’s laugh. Very few.
There was another problem too: the object of his affection. Doubt was eating his soul, as he pondered if his feelings were a sin. He has fallen in love at the very moment he put his eyes on her, the raven-haired beauty from afar, brought to him by the gentle sails of the Bringer of Dawn.
Seeking counsel, he went to Pelor’s temple, only to confront Mirine. His heart stopped at her sight. It was with cold sweat running down his brow and shaking hands that he talked to her, coming up with some stupid question over spiritual matters. Kindly, Mirine answered his questions, in a way that made his ridiculous question sound like a issue debated on the highest ranks of Pelor’s order. When she finished, he just walked away hastily.
But now it was different. Encouraged by the divine properties of alcohol he left the Goat’s Rest and, with the peculiar gait of those who drank a bit too much, headed for Pelor’s temple.
*****
Mirine couldn’t believe her eyes. In front of her a familiar face grinned to her, delighting in her surprise.
“Koreas?” Asked the astonished priestess.
“It’s been a long time, dear Mirine.” The hissing voice of the cloaked figure echoed in a strange way over the chamber. “You still can call me Master.”
Mirine tried to recompose, and spoke firmly.”I’ve changed, Koreas. I’m a servant of the Gods now. Pelor is my guide.”
Koreas let loose a sinister laugh, and walked towards Mirine. “You know that life is a contest for power, Mirine. The Gods are the real players of this game, where the reward is kept out of our reach. We’re pawns, Mirine. Toys for the Gods’ amusement.”
Stopping face to face with Mirine, he added. “We always fought for a chance to undo the Gods’ will, subvert it. Now, my dear, we have a chance to wield the true power.”
Mirine remained still, trying to control herself as a torrent of memories washed over her as he continued to speak.
“I’ve found a world where the Gods play no part in the game of life. Strength and might make the keys to power, war is the path that leads to godhood. With our sorcerous abilities we could have this whole world in our hands!!!”
The priestess shook her head and staring at the warlock’s eyes said.”You’re crazy, Koreas. I no longer seek power, I’ve expurged the hatred of my heart. Instead of revenge, punishment, I give people assistance, comprehension. I will take no part in your plan.”
In quick response to her words, Koreas put his hands over Mirine’s face, slowly passing his claw-like thumb over her lips.
“Who said you have any choice?”
