Disguised by the Forest

Chapter 7

          The cool autumn air hit Ana’s face as she stretched her arms above her head.  Her body protested at her for rising before dawn.  But if Ana wanted to explore this was her only chance. At night there were to many patrol, in morning most were still sleeping.  Ana had grown into a routine, and began running on less sleep. While in turn caused her to become more agitated and cranky.  It was worth it to get that taste of freedom she so desperately longed for.

          Her window was cracked just a smidge enough for just the air to escape in and out. Ana knew if she could get close enough without activating the sensors she would be golden.  She drew in a calming breathe listening to the sounds of the breeze.  The tree outside her window swayed, she crept closer to the window.  Channeling her energy she focused on a single leaf from the branch. 

          Ana felt the pull of the tree as she became one with it’s branches.  She was out of the window and ready to explore.  She longed to go back to the river to see the mortal again. But was afraid it would be to risky.  Her coming of age ceremony was last night. And she knew that all eyes would be on her. Making sure that she was up for the role and responsibility of leader. Tending to and caring for all the trees, animals that needed help finding homes and shelters. Ensuring that all would be safe.

          Moving tree to tree, she felt herself release all her fears, worries, and judgements of others.  She felt liberated, Ana knew she had ventured near the river.  She could feel the pull of the forests magic.  The protection against the mortals was stronger the nearer she got the edge. 

          When she crossed into the mortals side it was like walking through a thick dense fog. She knew the fog was an added protection given to the nymphs from Zeus to help ensure the mortals didn’t find them.   It caused confusion and eventually they would stumble back out the way they came in. The thicker a mortal would venture into the nymphs land the worse the fog got.

          Ana went to the river, she enjoyed the darkness that swallowed up the land everywhere.  Dipping her toes in she felt the cool water wash over her.  She was at peace, it was freedom. She sensed someone coming.  The light was just peaking over the hills casting shadows down over the villages.  Ana jumped when she felt a hand on her shoulder.