High Priestess of Sanuela

6. Inside the Holy Womb of Sanuela

Ayana stepped into the caves for the second time in her life, and was immediately enveloped by the chill air of the ancient, sacred inner womb of Sanuela, as Ignisia had called it. As her eyes adjusted to the darkness, she began to make out how mystical and wondrous the air seemed, as if it was emanating from another realm, illuminated by the luminous glimmer of the phosphorescent moss and mushrooms that grew on some spots in the walls. Drops of molten gold appeared to dance in the air, while the walls were glowing and sparkling as the light reflected off them, creating a magical, surreal atmosphere. The spectrum of colours from sky blue to emerald green cast an ethereal glow. Ignisia flew around, as well lighting a path for Ayana with her glowing wings.

The aroma of wet earth, dew, and moss clung to Ayana's nostrils, with a faint scent of something sweet and spicy that seemed to pervade the cave, invigorating her senses. It was an unfamiliar yet comforting feeling, like a long slow kiss, or the smell of leather and the sea.

The walls of the cave seemed to sparkle with life as Ayana touched them. She ran her fingers across their rough and jagged surfaces, feeling the dampness in some areas. Stalactites hung from the ceiling like stony icicles, formed over centuries by trickling water seeping through them. The stalagmites protruding from the ground had grown and merged over time to create a magical landscape within the mysterious darkness.

Their journey continued on, further into the depths of Sanuela's holy body temple. Occasionally, Ayana noticed curious beings living in these depths. In some areas, bats clung to the ceiling of the cave, their wings gleaming in a soft, warm light. Small frog-like animals hopped about, and a few fish swam around in small pools of water.

As they continued their exploration, Ayana noticed something that sent a chill up her spine; a soft heavenly voice that echoed through the cave chambers, filling them with ancient melodies. On closer inspection, she realised that it was coming from Ignisia's glowing wings! These beautiful sounds filled the air with life and energy, soothing Ayana's soul as they made their way further inwards.

Ayana began to sense a divine presence settle around her; it felt like she was being embraced by the Mother Goddess Sanuela. Ignisia's wings flickered brighter, as if her magic was amplified, creating a magical aura in the space.

The further they travelled down, the more peaceful Ayana felt. All her worries and fears melted away, replaced by a deep sense of calm and contentment. She could feel her spirit connecting with Sanuela's here; a spiritual communion that filled her soul with joy.

She felt safe here, with Ignisia's wings fluttering around her in many loops and eights, like a personal tour guide showing her all the beauty and sights of this magical place. Every corner of the cave held a different surprise; Ayana saw glittering crystals that glowed and shimmered in diverse astral colours. Every so often, they encountered mysterious symbols and hieroglyphs that held the secrets of the past carved in, or painted by some wise soul of ancient times.

The cave extended deep into the mountain. As they delved further into its depths, Ayana's senses became more alive with every step. Sometimes, a hidden smell of wildflowers or a faint taste of ancient spices filled the air, as if a gentle breeze was blowing it from beyond the walls. Every now and then, a soft song or a light melody seemed to drift from within the depths of the cave. As if something deep within the cave was calling out to her.

Ignisia explained that deep within these caves lay powers so great they could open up portals between worlds – something sacred enough to be used only when the inner calling was felt. Ayana had a sense of knowing that this place held untold wonders for her, just waiting to be discovered.

She began to sense a connection with everything around her; each being seemed to communicate with her without words. Every movement, every sound felt so familiar yet so foreign at the same time – it was as if Ayana could feel their spirits connecting beyond what was visible or tangible.