Thread:Crowsoul50/@comment-33229352-20191228054644/@comment-35042251-20200104215229

The statue’s smooth, alabaster face remained impassive, but Silvy’s voice asked, “What about the people of this village?” The goddess’ voice was soft and melancholy, but inquisitive.

“I... I would like you to bless them with good weather for the next year. Let this land not suffer from drought or flood or storm for an entire year. Let them have the most bountiful harvest they’ll have had in the last twenty years. Please, bless them with bright sunshine and plentiful rains. After this fire and the destruction it’s caused... they’ll need it.” She found that as she talked, the burning ache in her head ebbed away to a more manageable pain and her voice grew stronger and more determined.

The sky goddess was silent for a long time before she finally answered. “I will grant your requests, but I return, you must give a sacrifice to me.” Wind Weaver stiffened and her breath caught in her throat, but she nodded.

“In a fortnight, you must present yourself in Aeolus for a trial in front of me and the citizens of Aeolus. Do you agree to these terms?” Wind Weaver’s stomach lurched at the thought of going back to the place where all of this had started, to stand on trial in front of everyone there... She shuddered, but nodded. “I agree to these terms, my lady.”

“Good. Your wishes will be fulfilled. Now go, and do not try to contact me again until the trial.” Silverskies said. “Farewell for now, daughter of Audra.” There was a rumbling and the entire temple shook, the flames in the braziers flared, and a blinding flash of silver light consumed the inner sanctuary. WW shielded her eyes with her arms and when the light had faded, she found herself alone in the dark inner sanctuary, kneeling before the empty statue of Silverskies.

All she could do was sit there, stiff and unmoving. What have I done?! She thought, horrified and resigned at her bargain with her ex-employer.