Shadow of the Wolf

Chapter Eighteen

Just out of reach of the voices from within the healer’s home, Saleene started to enter the dense foliage of the forest. As soon as the darkness of the woods hit her skin, an intense sense of peace washed across her. She’d always enjoyed being outside in the woods. Making her way toward the area where the items she needed grew, she felt a calm cross her. For once, in so many months, she felt home again.

Kneeling on the soft grass, she began the task of replenishing her items. One by one she added more to her satchel, her voice raised in thanks to mother earth for providing the herbs. Her mother had always taught her that no matter how small the item was, it was part of nature and deserved her respect. Looking up she noticed a midnight black wolf looking at her, its eyes sparkled with curiosity.

Saleene greeted the animal with a smile. She felt his acceptance of her as he moved closer. Stroking his deep black fur, she enjoyed the quiet solitude of the area. Closing her eyes she heard a call from the other animals, hinting of a hot water spring nearby. Opening her eyes she stood and started in the direction of the running water.

As she ventured further into the woods, her heart grew lighter and lighter. Eventually she broke through the deepest portion of the forest and came face to face with a crystal clear spring with a waterfall at the far end. The vision took her breath away. Glancing around her she couldn’t hear anyone close. Removing her clothing she immersed her body in the fresh water. The coolness of the liquid eased the tension from her body away. From what she could tell the water contained special properties. She had heard of such a thing in the past, but had never encountered one until now. Looking around, she still felt certain she was alone. Closing her eyes she reached out to her mother, hoping that the natural energy of the area would help her connect. A few seconds past and she felt a stirring in her mind. 

My daughter, it is good to hear from you. I am glad you are well. It warmed Saleene’s heart to hear her mother’s voice. It had been far too long since they had talked. Sending her images of what she had found, she could feel her mother smile.

You seem to have discovered one of the ancient healing pools. If used properly, it can be used to cure even the strongest of illnesses. Remember the bark of the asnabal tree? If you combine the pulp of the tree with the water, it will remove any poison that has accumulated within the body.

Thank you mother, your advice will be useful. I am glad to hear from you. Convey my love to everyone. Is Kara still at home? Kara, her younger sister by two summers, had always wanted to follow her big sister around. It had broken both their hearts when she had been asked to go on this journey, but they knew it was unavoidable.

No my daughter, your sister was sent out on her own quest but two cycles ago. There was unrest in the land of Rala and she asked to find out the cause. Rala. The name alone sent shivers along her spine. The place was considered off limits to her entire town. Whatever had happened must have been great to cause the elders to send someone there. I am hoping to hear from her soon. When I do I will send her your love.

Mother, please let the elders know that Dena is alive. I fear she is part of the cause of what is happening. She’s lost her soul to the darkness. I’m sorry. She could feel her mother’s sadness. They’d always hoped her cousin would come home. With that the connection ended.

Returning her gaze back to the natural spring, Saleene swam to the edge of the water and removed four vials from her satchel, filling each with the pure water. Placing them back,  she began to wade back in. The water enveloped her in its embrace, removing the remaining aches from her body. Diving under the water, she let the cool quiet to wrap around her and clear her head. 

When she came up for air, she noticed a disturbance in the area. One quick scan was all she needed. There was something out there but it was not evil nor was it an animal. Sighing, she turned her gaze to the large oak to the east of the pool.