Fates of Wind – Part V
Death marks both the culmination of a mortal journey and the inception of a soul's odyssey into the unknown. Yet, what destination awaits beyond that enigmatic veil remains a riddle, with answers known only to those who have crossed over. When Sephir's earthly journey reached its conclusion, a new path beckoned her. The completion of her Trial of Life had ushered in a happier chapter, with Flint and Ajax as her steadfast companions, safeguarding her through life's trials. Eventually, she wed a noble and relocated to the outer city, where she found peace. In the realm of the afterlife, Sraptor was entrusted with the task of guiding her, initiating a fresh odyssey and a new trial.
"You are even more resplendent in person," Sraptor remarked as he approached Sephir's soul, still adorned in her prime human form. She observed her loved ones from her celestial vantage point. Turning to the enigmatic figure, she inquired, "And who might you be?" Sraptor responded, "I am many things, but today, I am simply your guide, here to escort you to heaven." Sephir calmly replied, "Then, I must accompany you." This serene acceptance took Sraptor by surprise. He asked, "Honestly, I expected some resistance or a plea to linger. Most souls seek to remain." A warm smile graced Sephir's lips as she spoke, "I have lived a content life without regrets. While I care deeply for those I've left behind, I believe I've done all I could for them. Staying would only burden them." Sraptor mused, "I can already see why the goddess chose you." Curious, Sephir inquired, "Chose me? For what?" Sraptor's smile widened, "You will soon find out."
As they continued their journey, Sephir shared the details of her mortal life with Sraptor until they arrived at the Gates of Heaven. Gently, Sraptor returned Sephir to her feet. "Are these the pearly gates of Heaven?" she inquired, her eyes filled with wonder. Sraptor replied, "Heaven boasts many gates, but to every arriving soul, they all appear the same." Stepping forward, the gates parted, and they entered. Sephir was in awe of the pristine realm before her, where the very clouds formed roads and gardens, and a sprawling city of grand castles appeared distant yet magnificent.
Tears welled in Sephir's eyes as she questioned her worthiness, "Do I deserve to be here? My life was simple, and I never anticipated such a place." Sraptor gently reassured her, "We must proceed to the Palace of Gusts, where someone eagerly awaits your presence. The dream gardens will provide you no solace." With a snap of his fingers, the breathtaking vista before Sephir dissolved, replaced by a winding staircase leading directly to the Palace of Gusts.
The palace, a testament to the boundless power of the breeze, floated among the clouds, its delicate spires and domes crafted from translucent crystalline materials that shimmered with the colors of the sky. Graceful, ivy-like vines of gossamer wind wove through the architecture, imbuing it with an enchanting sense of movement. Inside, the palace exuded serenity, with chambers adorned in soft pastel hues and furnished with clouds of billowing silk, where zephyrs playfully danced. From the grand balcony, one could behold panoramic vistas of heavenly landscapes, where the winds wove intricate tapestries of clouds and gentle breezes carried celestial melodies. The Palace of the Wind Goddess was a place of tranquil enchantment, where the very essence of the skies found its sanctuary.
Sephir stood in silent awe, struggling to find words to describe her reverence for this celestial realm. Before she could become lost in its beauty, Sraptor gently guided her forward. Finally, they reached the inner chamber of the Wind Goddess, where Sephir's Trial awaited—an ordeal that would not only alter the fates of those in the room but perhaps even the world itself. Such were the fates of the wind, forever changing with the slightest breeze.