Majai Presents Pagan Hills: Beige

CHAPTER 2: Pull Yourself Together: Part 3

Scanning the group for signs of bewilderment, Corvus noticed Ralph's attention had drifted to the celestial bodies above, his interest waning amidst another explanation of dream realm fundamentals to newcomers. "While normally your consciousness alone traverses to this dream state upon sleep, consider what differed in our journey here today," Corvus probed, gauging their engagement and understanding of their unusual entry into this dream-like dimension.

"Indeed, the Altar. Its use allowed not just our minds but our entire being-body and soul-to transition into Somneiral. It's likely you can't fully recall its appearance now," Corvus noted, prompting puzzled exchanges among the group. The realization that their memories of the Altar were hazy struck them all. Prompted by Danilo's mention, they strained to recall its details: Louie remembered its pyramid shape, the Dubois couple couldn't agree on its color, and Maria thought of her grandmother's shrine. Meanwhile, Mika remained absorbed by the daisy she held.

Corvus understood he was inundating them with crucial yet complex details, but the importance of grasping this knowledge was paramount. A misstep in the transition through the Altar could have dire consequences. "We'll delve deeper into this subject later," he assured them, eliciting a collective sigh of relief from everyone, Ralph included. Oliver, curious once more, raised his hand to ask another question.

"So if this is not Pagan Hills, then where is it?" echoed the group, seeking clarity. While Corvus's insights were enlightening, the group's underlying motive remained-to explore and ensure their visit was worthwhile. Ralph, increasingly impatient, found the pace maddening.

"Don't worry, we're on it. We're about to head over, just need a quick word with Esh first," Ralph assured them casually. At the mention of the name, Corvus's demeanor shifted dramatically, his gaze narrowing into a glare, a soft growl betraying his irritation. "What?" Ralph exclaimed, puzzled by the reaction.

"You shouldn't have mentioned him by name so soon after our arrival!" Corvus's visibly altered features, hinting at a predatory tension, prompted Ralph to raise his hands defensively and retreat a step. "I didn't! I just said 'Esh,'" Ralph protested, attempting to clarify amidst the growing tension.

"Yet, what truly holds weight, Ralph? The utterance, or the intention behind it?" came a resonant voice from behind them. Corvus exhaled deeply, muttering under his breath in frustration. Both men turned to identify the source, finding themselves in the presence of an imposing figure. The man stood at an impressive height of six feet seven inches, dressed in a striking black and red Yoruban traditional suit, complemented by a cane almost as tall as Oliver. The cane, sleek and black, was crowned with a raw cut ruby, standing out as a symbol of authority. His physique was slender, mirroring the elegance of his attire, with the auroras casting an eerie yet majestic glow against his dark bronze skin. At first glance, he could be mistaken for an ordinary man, if not for the extraordinary features that set him apart: two horns sprang from his scalp, arching gracefully towards his neck, while his eyes shone with a crimson light, replacing the whites with an intense red glow.

As the figure made his presence known, both Corvus and Ralph instinctively lowered their heads in reverence. Corvus, with a slight glance, signaled the rest of the group to do the same. Amidst their astonishment, the group members reluctantly lowered their heads. "Let me introduce our guide," Corvus announced to those gathered. "Meet Eshu, the Orisha, Guardian of Aśe, our savior from Olokun's fury, protector of crossroads, conduit between mortals and the divine, opener of paths, and custodian of fortune!" A modest smile graced Eshu's features as he took a deep breath.

When the group dared to raise their gaze, everyone, except for Mika, was visibly stunned by the sight of Eshu. Mika, despite her religious beliefs which would normally render her fearful of such a sight, found herself utterly fascinated, likely influenced by the earlier consumption of Corvus's cone. Eshu scanned the faces of the assembled, sensing the unique tapestry of their souls, narratives apparent only to him. While their origins remained elusive, he recognized something profoundly familiar in their essence. His attention eventually settled on Mr. Dubois, whose spirit resonated with memories of lifetimes past, echoing tales of wars Eshu had witnessed, imbued with a sorrow he himself had felt. It was as if Eshu had accompanied him on every journey, fully aware of the depths of his experiences.

"Ah, one who belongs to me," Eshu remarked with affection, his smile broadening into one that seemed both welcoming and mischievously ominous. Mr. Dubois, confronted with Eshu's gleaming smile, felt a wave of dread engulf him. Despite his skepticism toward the tales of magic and heritage his wife shared, tales from her lineage, the undeniable reality before him shattered his disbelief. It was as if, without even fully entering Pagan Hills, he faced an entity claiming dominion over him.

"Could you not?" Corvus interjected, his request drawing Eshu's attention away. Corvus was busy preparing another cone, his focus elsewhere. "You're well aware of the impression you leave on first-timers. What compels you to frighten them?" His voice was calm, respectful yet firm, leaving the group, Tamika included, in utter astonishment at his audacity. Corvus then met Eshu's gaze as the Orisha leaned closer, their faces mere inches apart, Eshu's stare intense.

"Have I caused offense?" Eshu inquired. Corvus, unfazed, responded with a smile.

"I'm merely following your teachings, Lord Eshu. As you've always said," he paused, hinting at a shared wisdom between them. "If you know." Corvus started.

"You know better," Eshu concluded. With deliberate care, Corvus finished rolling the cone, inspecting its integrity before presenting it to Eshu. "A tribute for you," he said, offering the cone with a respectful bow of his head towards the deity. Eshu's irritation with Corvus was palpable; he recognized the underlying sarcasm in the gesture. Ralph, witnessing the exchange, found himself engulfed in confusion, more so than any other. The onlookers interpreted Corvus's act as adherence to the Orisha's traditions, naively resolving to remember this supposed protocol. In their minds, a peculiar strategy formed: should they ever revisit Pagan Hills and encounter this formidable figure, their course of action would simply be to offer him narcotics.

TO BE CONTINUED...