The young boy who answered the door regarded me with a curious gaze. "You're here to see Quill?" His assessing eyes probed, attempting to unravel my true purpose.
I met his gaze, peering deeply into his eyes. Within them, I glimpsed a dormant wolf, its slumber barely veiled by delicate golden strands that tethered its rest. As I extended my hand towards his cheek, I sensed those tenuous threads, barely able to contain the weight of my presence. Any moment now, the wolf could stir from its sleep, poised for what lay ahead. He took a cautious step backward, intrigue and wariness mingling in his expression. "Let me fetch him for you."
He retreated into the modest abode, the interior a blend of mismatched furniture in hues of light beige and deep brown. Adorning the walls were faces of family members. I could sense the protective charms from the entrance of the home, warding off malevolent intentions from encroaching upon its inhabitants. Not long had passed before the boy returned, accompanied by another youth, slightly older but still in the bloom of youth. "Hi, were you looking for me? I don't think we've met, but I am sure i wouldn't've forgotten a beautiful face like yours," the lad quipped with youthful jest. "You're not the Quill I seek; your age lacks the wisdom I seek," I replied, observing them both. They exchanged glances. "I see you're not looking for me, but my grandfather who isn't here," the young man conceded. "Que la diosa bendiga mi paciencia" I murmured. "Could you take me to him? This is urgent."
Their gazes met again. "He's in a council meeting, and outsiders aren't permitted during our people's gatherings." "What's your name?" I inquired. "I'm Seth Clearwater." Surveying the reservation, I noticed rows of small houses with darkened windows, enveloped in an eerie stillness, except for one dwelling situated at the heart of the settlement. Turning back to the boys, I thanked them for their attempted assistance and made my way toward the home, its chimney releasing a faint plume of smoke. "HEY, we said you're not allowed," they protested, attempting to halt me. With my patience fraying, I uttered, "Congelar." They froze in place, their minds alert while their bodies remained still. "I mean no harm to you or your people, but I must speak with him. It's of great importance."
Isabella reached the door of the dwelling, where the air was thick with voices filled with anger and fear. "We should kill them, get rid of them," one voice proclaimed. "They are unnatural and threaten the lives of our people," another added. She knocked on the door loudly, disrupting the tumult from within. Suddenly, the night's stillness returned, and silence descended on the other side of the door.
Footsteps approached, and another young native boy answered the door. His gaze swept over Isabella, assessing who she was and why she had ventured onto their land. In his eyes, she saw echoes of history and strength, coupled with a wolf that slumbered beneath the surface, its quietude barely disturbed by delicate golden strands
"Who are you? Outsiders are not welcome here," a stern voice echoed from within the dwelling. "I have come seeking an audience with Quil Ateara," Isabella declared firmly. At the mention of his name, an older man emerged, his demeanor measured as he regarded the newcomer with a tilt of his head. Minutes passed before the man's expression transformed into one of shock and utter fear, sending ripples of curiosity through those in attendance. What could provoke such a response from one of their revered elders?
"What do you want, and why are you here?" he demanded, his tone laced with concern. "I have come to seek an oath given to me by this tribe, one that I aim to see fulfilled for what lies ahead."
Quill's gaze shifted between Isabella and the onlookers, and to the astonishment of those present, he gracefully bent to one knee. "This tribe upholds its oath to the creator and protector, pledging allegiance of our pack to the old ways and its guardian," he proclaimed. Isabella moved slowly through the gathering of people, her purpose clear. "I had hoped I wouldn't need to call upon the children of the forest. I thank you once again for reinstating your oath to me"
"Your presence here is both an honor and a gift, Isa," Quil acknowledged, his words carrying a deep sense of respect and reverence. "I have missed you dear friend"
Notes
I will have another chapter coming it will be a slow build as i am working on a history portion to give my story more depth. Please review and let me know what you think
Translations
Que la diosa bendiga mi paciencia - May the goddess bless my patience