Chapter 2 - The chick

Their journey led them through green valleys, arid deserts and tumultuous rivers. Each new place held its own mysteries, and each trial strengthened the connection between the group members. The discussions between the followers had become enriching exchanges, where divergent perspectives were welcomed as precious gems.

One evening, while they were resting around a campfire, Alice addressed Arion, her eyes illuminated by the dance of flames. Father, as we move forward, I wonder what the true essence of the divinity we worship is. How can we understand it beyond ancient symbols and stories?"

Arion contemplated the stars before answering. " My daughter, the divinity we worship is a force that transcends our limited understanding as human beings. It manifests itself through the elements, emotions, and even in the silence of our thoughts. The true essence lies in the connection we make with this force, a connection that goes beyond words and rituals."

Alice absorbed every word carefully. "So how can we deepen this connection?"

Arion smiled. "It is through observation, meditation, and gratitude. Every moment of life offers an opportunity to feel the presence of divinity. In nature, in the eyes of a loved one, or even in the challenges we face. You have to learn to listen to the whispers of the universe."

Lucie, the mystical cat, approached, as if he understood the depth of the conversation. Alice plunged into reflection, seeking to perceive beyond appearances. She realized that divinity was not merely an external entity, but an omnipresent energy to which it was intimately connected.

Followers joined the discussion, sharing their own experiences and understandings of divinity. Each had a unique story to tell, but all converged on a common idea: divinity was both personal and universal, a force that united all aspects of existence.

The night advanced, the stars glittered above them, silent witnesses of this eternal quest for truth. The group fell asleep, imbued with the certainty that each sunrise would bring new revelations on the path that stretched before them.

Thus, under the starry sky, Alice, Arion, Lucie and the other followers continued their journey

As they walked through steep mountains, the group discovered in the distance a dark smoke rising in the sky. Worried, they hastened forward, guided by a presentiment of trouble. As they approached, the air filled with a heavy atmosphere, foreshadowing a recent tragedy.

At the turn of the path, the group arrived in front of a destroyed village. Houses in ruins lay like vestiges of a forgotten past, and traces of violence were visible everywhere. The once bustling streets were now deserted, leaving only silent whispers of the tragedy that had struck.

Alice knelt by an engraved stone, once the heart of the village, and her eyes reflected sadness. Arion put a compassionate hand on his shoulder. "This is a pain we have encountered too often over the centuries. Conflict and destruction often strike the most peaceful places."

Lucie, the mystical cat, uttered a gentle moan, as if she felt the sadness of the place. The other followers examined the rubble, looking for clues as to what had caused such destruction.

As the group explored further, they met a survivor, an elderly man who had taken refuge in an intact cellar. He told a story of conflict between rival factions, bringing destruction in his path. The village, once prosperous and harmonious, had been trapped in a spiral of violence.

Alice felt deep compassion for the people of the village and a muted anger at those who had sown chaos. Father, what can we do about such injustice?" she asked, her eyes shining with determination.

Arion took a moment to respond, his thoughts heavy. "Our role as seekers of truth is to bring back peace and understanding. We must help those who suffer and work to restore harmony. The truth is not only in seeking divinity, but also in our actions to create a better world."

Guided by this new mission, the group began to rebuild the devastated village. They helped the survivors, cared for the wounded, and listened to the stories of those who had lost everything. The followers shared their wisdom and compassion, guiding the village towards a necessary healing.

Over the days, a transformation took place. The inhabitants of the village began to regain hope, and the ruins were replaced by new constructions, symbols of resilience and renewal. The teachings of divinity, focused on understanding and harmony, were shared with those who were willing to listen.

The benevolent presence of Lucia, the mystical cat, seemed to bring special comfort to the children of the village, symbolizing the possibility of finding light even in the darkest moments.

Alice, Arion, and the other followers finally left the village, knowing that they had sown the seeds of peace and understanding. They resumed their quest, carrying with them the lesson learned in the devastated ruins: that the truth was not only in personal research, but also in commitment to a world where love and understanding prevail over destruction and hatred.