Dread Mage

“The roots here are steadfast and strong,” Pith remarked as they approached a spot not far from Sonder’s home.

The treant examined the ground, pacing slowly while occasionally unearthing small clumps of soil with its wooden hands to assess its quality.

Then, with a voice that resonated through the clearing, Pith called out, “You wouldn’t mind if I settled here with my Twigling, would you?”

“I don’t mind,” Sonder replied.

Pith turned to her, its expression thoughtful. “Ah, but I’m not speaking to you, Sonder. I’m addressing the earth, the grass, and the other trees around us. It is not often that I choose to move, and I wish to ensure that I am not a burden to my neighbors.”

As Pith continued its careful evaluation of the area, Sonder simply observed. The treant gently placed its wooden hands against the ground, closing its eyes in a way that suggested it was listening to a silent dialogue.

“The earth welcomes us,” Pith announced, its voice a gentle rumble akin to distant thunder. “We shall settle here, where the roots are strong, the soil is rich, and the neighbors are welcoming.”

“I’m glad you found a place that feels right,” she said warmly. “I think you and your...” Sonder hesitated, unsure of how to describe the twigling. Was it Pith’s child?

“You’ll be happy here; it seems like a lovely area,” she added, hoping to convey her sincerity.

“You are unusually kind,” Pith replied, its voice holding a note of appreciation. “It is not often that we encounter such understanding from those who walk on two legs.”

Sonder smiled, “Thank you.”

As they spoke, the little Twigling hopped down from Pith’s shoulder, its energy boundless as it began to explore its new surroundings. It darted between the trees, examining every leaf and pebble.

“It’s amazing how much energy it has,” Sonder remarked.

Pith chuckled, a sound reminiscent of creaking branches swaying in the wind. “Youth is a time of discovery and growth. The Twigling will learn much from this place. Now, shall we begin your lesson?”

“Yes,” Sonder replied.

“Very well,” Pith said as it began to dig its feet into the ground, spreading its roots wide. “This skill, seldom used by humans, will allow you to connect more deeply with the world around you. First, find a comfortable, sunlit spot to sit,” Pith instructed.

Sonder glanced around and quickly settled on a soft patch of moss, sunlight filtering through the leaves above. She hesitated for a moment, softly apologizing to the moss before thanking it for providing her a comfortable seat.

“Feel the ground beneath you as I do,” Pith continued. “The earth is alive, holding stories within its depths. You may not be able to literally dig in your feet as I can, but that is not necessary to absorb the light.”

Sonder followed Pith’s lead, sitting cross-legged on the moss with her hands resting on her knees.

“Close your eyes and feel the air,” Pith instructed.

Sonder obeyed, taking a deep breath and inhaling the fragrant scents of the forest.

“What do I do next?” she asked.

“Patience. Focus on the light,” Pith said, its voice soothing. “Let it fill your body and mind. Picture it as a warm glow, a golden energy dancing in the air. Visualize it flowing toward you, ready to be embraced.”

Sonder concentrated with all her might, the soft sounds of the forest aiding her focus. She envisioned the sun’s rays as delicate threads, descending from the sky and weaving patterns on the ground.

She imagined drawing one of those threads into her body, allowing the warmth to wash over her.

“Good,” Pith encouraged. “Continue to draw in the light with each breath. Let it fill your body, nourishing you from within. Feel the energy pulse through your veins, settling within you.”

With each of her long breaths, Sonder drew in more of the sun threads.

“Now, think of the connection between you and nature,” Pith continued. “You are part of this world, intertwined with every creature that touches the light. Embrace that bond. Let it uplift you while also grounding you.”

Sonder took another deep breath, feeling as if she could hear faint whispers surrounding her, voices not her own nor Pith’s.

“Allow yourself to be vulnerable. With each exhale, let go of any doubts or fears. Trust in the light,” Pith urged.

Sonder surrendered to the process, allowing the light to fill her completely. A gentle sense of peace washed over her, settling in the depths of her being.

Pith released a long, quiet groan, as if contemplating her approach. “Not too bad. It seems you are beginning to understand the light, though it hasn't fully found you yet.”

Sonder opened her eyes, still feeling a slight hunger, though it was less intense than moments before.

Pith nodded knowingly. “If you continue like this, you will soon be able to fill yourself with light and nourishment to your heart’s content in just a few months.”