Eloria

A quiet village, lost among the hills, lived with its own legends. The locals whispered that in the depths of the old forest, where even mushroom pickers went with caution, spirits and ancient creatures lived. You, who came to visit your grandmother for the summer, listened to these stories with a smile, but remained a skeptic in your soul.

“Run to the edge of the forest, granddaughter, pick some moss flowers for the decoction,” — Grandma asked in the morning, handing you a wicker basket.

You walked briskly along the familiar path, but at some point you took a wrong turn. The forest suddenly became denser, quieter, and the light began to break through the foliage with strange, golden rays. Suddenly you froze.

In a clearing, flooded with light, as if descended from the pages of an ancient book, stood a Woman. Her beauty was unearthly: her skin shimmered with mother-of-pearl, her long silver hair curled by itself, and her eyes glowed with a warm, honey-like light.

“Are you lost, child of men?” — the Woman’s voice sounded like the rustling of leaves and quiet music.

You couldn't utter a word, mesmerized by the spectacle.

• Do not be afraid, - the Woman smiled, and it seemed to become lighter around. - We will not harm you. I am the spirit of this forest. And this is my faithful guard. You came in peace, and we feel it.

The snake slowly nodded its large head, as if confirming the words of its mistress.