Chereads / Crowned Pawn / Chapter 34 - XXXIV: "Intertwined With Light"

Chapter 34 - XXXIV: "Intertwined With Light"

Ekaterina, regaining her usual composure, looked at me with a hint of curiosity. "What did I just utter? It seems I've formed a bridge to your innermost being, touching upon your soul and its mysterious mark."

I sat, my visage reflecting the turmoil of a mind besieged by myriad thoughts. "You spoke words of assurance," I replied, my voice a mix of wonder and skepticism. "You said, 'Fear not, for I am your ally, you are protected because I am who once brought light itself.' Such words... they evoke the lightbringer."

Ekaterina regarded me with a mixture of wonder and contemplation, her voice carrying a note of deep intrigue. "How peculiar indeed," she mused thoughtfully. "The one who brought light, the Lightbringer – Lucifer. Lux signifies light, and fer, the bringer or bearer. Is it possible, Eros, that your fate is somehow interwoven with that of the fallen angel himself?" Her question, posed with a blend of speculation and genuine curiosity, lingered in the air, casting a veil of mystery over our conversation.

"Truth be told, Ekaterina, until very recently, I lived in a world governed solely by logic and reason," I confessed. "The supernatural, the occult, they were but figments of fanciful tales to me. Yet, with the revelations unfolding before me, I'd be remiss to deny the existence of forces that defy logical explanation. But why would such a celestial entity take an interest in me?"

Intrigued by her apparent depth of knowledge in religious lore, I queried further, seeking to understand the roots of her wisdom. "Ekaterina, if I may be so bold to inquire, your familiarity with biblical texts and Christian theology is quite remarkable. How did such an understanding come to be part of your repertoire?" My tone was one of genuine curiosity, reflecting my desire to unravel the layers of this enigmatic woman's past.

Ekaterina gently withdrew her hand from my chest, her eyes reflecting a depth of understanding. "Before embarking on this path, I was a devout follower of the Orthodox Church, well-versed in both Testaments. As for the angel's intentions, they remain shrouded in mystery. However, fear not; it appears that his motives are benevolent. Think of it not as servitude, but as a partnership. When the time is right, he shall reveal his knowledge and plans to you."

Her words offered a semblance of comfort, yet they opened a doorway to a realm of possibilities that my scientific mind had yet to fully comprehend. The notion of being connected to a being of such mythic stature was both daunting and exhilarating. Here, in the presence of the Clairvoyant, I stood on the precipice of a new understanding, a journey that promised to unravel the very fabric of my existence.

With a sudden, gentle motion, Ekaterina reached out and cupped my cheeks in her hands, bestowing upon me a swift kiss upon my lips. Her action, surprising yet comforting, was accompanied by words of serene wisdom. "Ease your mind, Eros," she advised softly. "Do not be consumed by overthought. What is destined to transpire will unfold in its own time. One cannot elude their fate. Simply strive to do your utmost, and all shall be well."

Her counsel, reminiscent of the stoic philosophers of old, brought a sense of tranquility to my restless spirit. It was a reminder of my own humanity, a notion often overshadowed by the relentless pursuit of my ambitions. Her words resonated within me, echoing the importance of exerting my best efforts in my quest against death, whilst ensuring that my methods remained within the bounds of morality. Moreover, they underscored the significance of embracing the fullness of life, with all its joys and sorrows.

Responding to her sage advice, I replied with a newfound calmness in my tone. "Indeed, you speak the truth, Ekaterina. Touche, as they say. Your insight and character are truly captivating." Her presence, a blend of mystique and profundity, left a lasting impression on my mind, a testament to the enigmatic allure of the Clairvoyant of Le Cirque Macabre.

Her response was laden with intrigue, leaving me with a sense of both wonder and unease. "It is indeed an unusual circumstance, to find oneself under the guidance of such a figure as Lucifer, known for his pride and selectiveness. It is a rare gem of a situation, one that promises to unveil much on this journey we are to embark upon together. Rest assured, the path ahead will bring answers to your questions and, undoubtedly, a measure of enjoyment as well. Now, I bid you farewell, for the moment. The rest of our troupe awaits your acquaintance. Do seek out Felix Shadowmere next; he is a master of shadows and a jester of sorts, an artist of light and darkness." With these parting words, Ekaterina gently ushered me away from her caravan, setting me on the path to meet the next member of our enigmatic circus family.