Chapter 1: Destiny

She was content with the quiet of the forest around her. She was more at home here than in the village. There she was a novelty, something to be looked at and admired but nothing more. Out here among the endless trees, she was herself without having to hide or pretend. She had always felt different from everyone else. At least, that was how she felt after her father had abandoned her and her mother. Her mother, heartbroken and sick, had sent her to live in the nearby village of Ourania. 13 years later she received a letter that changed her life. It was from the healer who had taken care of her mother over the years.

“Phaedra,

I’m sorry that it has to be me to tell you this.

Your mother has finally found peace. She has returned to Mother Earth. Hopefully you will be at peace with her passing.

Peace be with you,

Jason”

Phaedra was so shocked that she couldn’t move. She stayed in her chair like she was rooted to it. She knew she needed to return home but she couldn’t think properly. After what seemed like an eternity, she realized that nightfall was coming fast. She resolved to travel first thing in the morning.

As soon as the sun warmed her face the next morning, Phaedra began the journey home. It took her most of the morning to reach her childhood home. Jason was there at the front door as if he knew she was on her way there even before she had decided to. At his side, as always, was Leandros.

Leandros was a bright young man whom Phaedra had played with as a child. Jason was Leandros’s father and had always wanted to see him become a healer. Leandros, however, had other intentions. He was an exceptional student at whatever he learned. He followed his father around to make him happy. But Leandros dreamed of adventure. The only person he had ever told was the daughter of his father’s long-term patient.

He had always trusted Phaedra even though he didn’t understand why. Seeing her again after 3 years brought feelings to the surface that he had never felt before. He shook himself as they greeted each other.

“Jason, I’m glad you were here with her when she passed. Thank you for watching over her for so long.” Phaedra shifted her attention from father to son. “Merry meet, Leandros.”