Asclepius

Chapter 7: Goddess of Remedy

Asclepius takes my hand as we wonder deep into the jungle. We are far from any mortal path yet Asclepius finds his way as if it is a trail traveled many times. I let him guide me.

Eventually we reach a clearing. It is an area that looks out of place amongst the dense and rich plants of the jungle. Asclepius stops in the center. His eyes look forward and upward scanning the tree tops.

I look toward the jungle canopy that sits hundreds of feet off from the ground. The light shines through illuminating the green leaves, but can not penetrate it. It must finds its way around the dense roof of the forest. I feel the rush of the air beside me and look toward my companion.
His wings are out and he is flying in place. Each gentle flap pushes him up slightly as he sinks a little in between the beats of his wings. He looks down at me and holds out his hand.

"Do you need some assistance in flight?"

I look at him with dismay. I let my feet levitate off the ground to meet his height.

"No thank you," I reply. "I can manage on my own thank you."

"I didn't know how connected your power was to water," he replies.

"Lucky for me, all of this earth has water in one form or another," I reply. "Lead the way."

Asclepius begins to flap his wings stronger and with more purpose as he ascends away from the ground below. I follow close behind.

We fly up through the first canopy of the tall tree and I can just make out where we are heading. Above us is what looks like a system of tree houses that mold within the highest level of leaves in the forest. Set in the big trees are a series of bridges and huts. As we get closer, I see the modern touches of man have been brought to them. On top of thatched roof sets solar panels. On the side of each roof is a rain barrel that catches water thrown down from the skies. Asclepius lands with a light tap on the wooden floor. I land beside him.

"Panacea!"

Asclepius calls toward the largest tree house. I look at him wondering how he knows her name. I wonder how he knows where the goddess of remedy lives. I feel a slight tinge of envy as I look the god of medicine up and down. How handsome he is like so many of the other gods. Yet something more draws me to him.
The door creaking open draws my attention toward it. Out steps this woman. Her red flowing hair is speckled with strategically placed flowers and garnered with leaves. She tip toes toward us on bare feet. Her eyes lock with Asclepius's and she smiles.

"Hello, father," she replies.

She tip toes up to him and kisses him on the cheek. He brings her in for a hug his wings instinctively wrap around her.

"It has been too long, my dear." He replies.

"And who's fault is that?"

"I know, but living so secluded does not help," he replies.

"True but you know as well as anyone diversity in the world provides the best cures. Where is there a more fitting place to find new remedies than in a jungle teaming with diversity?"

"I do not fault you dear for wanting to live here. It is indeed beautiful and it suits you."

Her brilliant smile lights up the space. Asclepius brings his hand up to touch his daughters shoulder and I see the love between the two of them. I feel their energy radiating and feel as if I am intruding on something personal.

"This is my friend, Galene," interjects Asclepius breaking his gaze upon his daughter to turn toward me.

"It is a pleasure to meet you," replies Panacea as she tips toes toward me extending a hand out.