The Visitation

Chundrea could hardly believe her eyes. In the place where a massive boulder once stood, was a glorious temple! Bewildered beyond belief, she dropped to her knees and began to thank the gods for bestowing such a wonderful gift upon her. She got up and went inside, slowly, as if this were a dream and might all fade away. But it didn't. She brought her book and mat inside and put the mat on the shelf. Her book she brought to the Altar. This was the sacred book of invocations that was given to her by her grandmother before her passing into the realm of the gods. It held very powerful magic that Chundrea had little knowledge of. She also had her little thought book. She took that out and began to write about the temple, paying attention to even the smallest detail. Then Chundrea noticed something that made her stop. Someone had left behind a sling. Picking it up, Chundrea noticed the familiar markings on it. It was Andraste's. Her heart lept. Was he the creator of this wonderful place? She would have to find out. But later. Now she had to meditate.

Chundrea set out her mat in the middle of the circle and began her ritual.

"Revered ones of the heavens, reveal to me you will."

Before this time she had never gotten an answer. But this time, someone spoke back.

"My child."

Chundrea was startled, she looked around her and at first saw nothing. "Where are you?" She asked. "Who are you?"

"I am here beside you. My name is Orion."

And then, as clear as crystal , she saw him. He looked like a young man.

"Are you a god?"

"Yes, child."

She sat in wonder, just staring at him, not being able to speak.

"Why do you look at me so?" He asked her.

"I've never seen a god. I didn't expect to... I've never actually made contact before. Why do I see you now? Do you need something of me?"

"That I do. I need for you to once again warn your people. The gods are angry with them. Your people could be wiped out completely if this continues. Do they not believe in us?"

"I am not sure anymore. I know of a few who still do your bidding. But the others say that work must be done no matter what day it is."

"Talk to your people, hold a meeting. Make them listen."

"They won't listen to a child."

"You have lived for eighteen summers, you are no longer a child."

"They treat me as one."

"Do you still have the book that Nageane gave you?"

"Yes. It's over there, on the altar."

"Go and get it."

She did as he said.

"I never understood these things. I know that my grandmother had special powers given to her by the gods, but my mother refused to believe in them. I guess that's why gram gave the book to me. But I know not what to do with it."

"Then you know not of the gift you possess."

"What gift?"

"You could be a very powerful woman, Chundrea. One day you shall lead your people on the right path."

"But I can't do any of this." She said, flipping through the book.

"Your friend, Siaobhan, does she believe in this?"

"Yes, but..."

"Good. Talk to your friend. Both of you learn the ways your grandmother once knew. Make us proud, Chundrea. I will visit you again."

"Wait. Can you teach me something before you go?"

Orion smiled at her.

"Close your eyes. Think of Andraste. Call out his name in your mind."

Chundrea closed her eyes and the god disappeared.