Ithika: Into The Forest

Chapter 5

As the sunlight illuminated the ancient theater, its grandeur became even more spectacular. Ivy and wild flowers adorned the marble stone exterior, creating a beautiful display. The rounded pillars of the domed stage cast long shadows on the soft, blue-green grass. Esthony and Laza eagerly bounced down the slope to join the others who were waiting at the edge of the theater.

Landon, the camp leader, approached the group and addressed them. "Campers, today is the day you will meet your mentors. The purpose of this meeting is to introduce yourselves and receive basic training. For those who may not know their powers, please consult Mrs. Agitha."

Curious, Esthony leaned over to Laza and asked quietly, "Who is Mrs. Agitha?"

Laza whispered discreetly, "She's our counselor for prophetic knowledge."

Esthony glanced over at her mother, who seemed a bit worried at the thought of meeting with Mrs. Agitha.

Esthony's heart raced as Landon revealed the list of power mentors for the summer. She quickly scanned the names and their respective talents, feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Esthony couldn't help but wonder who her mentor would be.

As she stood there, a surge of warmth coursed through Esthony's veins, causing her to shiver. The presence of Joel, standing close to her, felt electrifying. However, her momentary distraction was interrupted by a familiar voice echoing through the ancient walls.

"Esthony..." the whisper surged from the wind.

Esthony's blood ran cold as she heard the unexpected call. It couldn't possibly, she thought. As she glanced around for the figure she had met only earlier. But she couldn't see the woman anywhere. She recognized the voice. And to her surprise, the elderly lady she had encountered at the gate entrance was now making her way towards her. Seemingly materializing from thin air. She shuffled toward Esthony. Almost making her jump out of her skin.

Landon cut in and approached the lady with respect. Almost as if he could see the fright on Esthony's face. His gentle eyes connected with hers as he spoke. "Esthony, I would like to introduce you to Mrs. Agitha."

"She is our prophetic knowledge councilor," Landon added quickly. "She will help determine your powers and guide you to the right mentor."

Esthony's embarrassment resurfaced as she remembered her clumsy encounter with Mrs. Agitha upon first entry to the new and unfamiliar world.

She had hoped they wouldn't cross paths again.  Only to save her from any further embarrassment. And now they were meeting again under uncomfortable circumstances. A rush of heat hitting Esthony as she gazed down at the little woman's inscrutable gaze upon her.

The peculiar-looking woman slowly approached Esthony, her face wrinkled and her eyes smoldering with intensity. Esthony couldn't help but squint at her appearance. Mrs. Agitha's features seemed even more severe and her skin had a bluish-green tint. Her small, cold hands reached out and grasped Esthony's.

In that moment, Mrs. Agitha's eyes shot open, revealing a mysterious and profound glaze over her now milky, white eyes.

Esthony stood there in awe as Mrs. Agitha spoke the cryptic words in a now powerful and booming voice. "Blood and bones you shall see. Back to life the Queen will be!" She exclaimed through a sudden gust of wind and sound.

In that instant, a surge of energy coursed through Edthony's body, and a bolt of thunder materialized overhead. Landon, startled, took a step back, while all the campers froze, their eyes fixed on the unexpected scene.

Anne rushed over to Esthony, offering her support and comfort. As Mrs. Agitha's face returned to its usual warmth, Landon and Anne exchanged intense glances, seemingly affected by the strange occurrence.