Chapter 21 - The Prophecy (2/2)

Before me was a tall and imposing podium. Elaborate carvings covered the surface, depictions of various parts of the underworld. I recognized most of it from my father's teachings, but my attention was drawn to the dark silhouettes above.

”You… should not be here.” A loud and commanding voice came from above.

”What shall we do?” Their voice was quieter, but equally as authoritative. It was followed by a long pause. I stood and waited, staring at the Judges that would determine my fate. I was slightly worried about their confusion. But, I felt resigned. I had already died and there wasn't much I was able to do that could change my fate.

I suddenly felt something pull at my soul, and I suddenly was catapulted violently through a large white gate. I twisted up and down, left and right, as a wispy white string dragged me to my destination. With a screeching halt, I landed hard on the ground, rocks and dirt scattering around me. Before me were three ancient women, their eyes gray and hair thin. In their wrinkled and withered hands was a white string. They stared at one frayed end as it disintegrated into dust. Everything was still around them. It felt like the very air was scared to anger them. My legs went weak from the tension and pressure surrounding them.

”Our tapestry is ruined,” cried the rightmost one. Her voice was soft, but it carried tremendous power, power that willed even gods to obey.

”It is the work of those cursed ones,” replied the middle one. She pulled the string taut in anger. I could see a white aura begin to surround her.

The last stared directly at me, her eyes piercing through my soul. From behind her back, she pulled out a long shear, the sharp edges pristine and gleaming. She pointed it at me, her eyes glazed over.

”Where the blood of leporum flows,

Trusted allies turn to bitter foes.

Trust and a twisted past corrodes.

Set on a path to make this right,

A choice to consider with all your might;

To destroy the sacred trusted gift,

Or to see the awakening of Hell's rift.