Chapter 7: Whispering Waters

As I walked down the right path, the woods seemed to close in around me, the shadows of the trees deepening as the moonlight filtered through the dense canopy above. The air was thick with humidity, carrying hints of earth and moss. Despite my frustration with Sera, I couldn't shake off the lingering feeling that Papa Legba's words held weight—choosing the right path might indeed lead us closer to rescuing my sister.

Everything felt surreal. One day I was in my apartment working my butt off on a deadline and now I am in a realm get dragged in this Voodoo stuff and potentially be killed while rescuing a sister in distress. Honestly, everything happened swiftly yet I still have to process it all and dismiss it as reality. Who would've thought that these "stuff" are real. So that means, the Leprechaun is real? or the Aswangs? or even the famous mythologies? One would not even know. 

I glanced back once, catching a glimpse of Sera standing at the crossroads, her expression a mix of regret and determination. Her words echoed faintly in the night air, a reminder of our strained partnership amidst the urgency of our mission. I mean, I just recently met her.

Pushing forward, I focused on the second clue in my hand:

"Feminine lives by the water of her beauty. Queen of wealth, abundance and bounty. Be wise words with honey."

The mention of a goddess associated with water and beauty led me to think of Oshun, known in some traditions as the goddess of rivers, streams, and wealth. If we were to follow the clues, this path might indeed take us closer to the next challenge or clue on our quest. Thank heavens for my nosiness with Nana's stuffs. I was a nosy kid rummaging through stuffs that only adults are allowed. Hey, not that far.

The path twisted and turned, occasionally narrowing into barely discernible trails that seemed to lead deeper into the heart of the forest. Each step felt deliberate, filled with the weight of uncertainty and anticipation. I found myself replaying the encounter with Papa Legba—the mysterious old man who appeared as we sought the dog, only to vanish as abruptly as he had arrived.

Lost in thought, I almost missed the subtle shift in the surroundings. The air grew cooler, and a faint sound of trickling water reached my ears. Ahead, the path opened into a clearing bathed in moonlight, revealing a serene pond bordered by lush greenery and blooming flowers. 

Sensing that I was nearing my destination, I cautiously approached the water's edge, searching for any sign or clue that might guide me further. The moon cast a gentle glow over the pond, illuminating its tranquil surface like a mirror reflecting the stars above.

Suddenly, a soft voice seemed to float on the breeze, carrying with it a sense of wisdom and ancient knowledge. "Welcome, seeker," the voice whispered, sending a shiver down my spine.

I turned around to find a figure emerging from the shadows—a woman of striking beauty, draped in flowing garments that shimmered like water under the moonlight. Her eyes sparkled with kindness and intelligence, and I immediately sensed her presence carried a profound aura of power.

"You seek answers, child," she continued, her voice as gentle as the breeze that rustled the leaves above. "I am Oshun, guardian of rivers and bringer of abundance. What brings you to my realm?"

Stunned by her appearance and the weight of her words, I gathered my thoughts quickly. "Great Oshun," I began, bowing slightly out of respect, "I seek to rescue my sister, taken by Kalfu. We follow the clues given to us, hoping they will lead us to her."

Oshun regarded me with a knowing smile, her gaze seeming to pierce through the layers of my being. "Ah, the tricks of fate and destiny," she murmured, almost to herself. "Kalfu is a formidable opponent, but with courage and guidance, all paths may converge towards liberation."

I nodded, feeling a surge of hope and determination wash over me. "Do you have any advice for us, Oshun?" I asked earnestly, knowing that her wisdom could prove invaluable in our quest.

She extended a hand towards the pond, where the moonlight danced upon the water's surface. "Take heed of your heart, seeker. Trust in the bonds that unite you with those you love. The journey ahead may test your resolve, but remember that strength lies not only in power, but in compassion and resilience."

Her words resonated deeply within me, filling me with renewed purpose. I bowed again, expressing my gratitude for her guidance. "Thank you, Oshun," I said sincerely. "We will continue our journey with courage and determination."

As I turned to leave, I glanced back at the serene pond, knowing that our encounter with Oshun had marked a pivotal moment in our quest. The path ahead remained uncertain, but with each step, I carried with me the blessings of the goddess of rivers and the hope that our efforts would lead us closer to rescuing my beloved sister.

Walking back towards the crossroads, I found Sera waiting anxiously. Her expression softened as she saw me approach, her earlier frustration replaced by a silent understanding.

"Did you find anything?" she asked quietly, her eyes searching mine for answers.

"Yes," I replied, feeling a sense of peace settle within me. "We're on the right path."

Sera nodded, a flicker of relief crossing her features. "Good," she said simply, her voice tinged with unspoken apology.

Together, we stood at the crossroads once more, the night enveloping us in its quiet embrace. With renewed determination and the guidance of Oshun's wisdom, we set forth once again, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead on our journey to rescue my sister and unravel the mysteries that bound us to the realm of gods and goddesses.

And amidst the shadows and moonlit paths, I couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope—a belief that, with courage and faith, we would find our way through the darkness and into the light of redemption.