Chapter 113: The goddess of guidance
The cold seemed to seep into Ceremus' very bones, heavier than mere winter's chill. It wasn't the river's touch—it was the weight of his father's gaze.
Peleus stood unmoving in the dark water, his hands clasped behind his back, his robes unsoiled despite the current that should have dragged them under. He was exactly as Ceremus remembered—formidable, unyielding, so incredibly kind, yet there was a hint of sadness laced in his grey eyes.
"Ceremus, my son, though your heart remains just, your actions have proved otherwise over the years. What has happened to you? Where has your duty gone? Why have you turned your back on your kingdom?" He asked.
Ceremus' fingers twitched, his body riddled with guilt. For the first time, the young man felt shame. Embarrassed by his past actions over the years. How could he face his father the way he was now? Now that he had thrown away everything his father had strived towards? His grandfather and great grandfather.
He clenched his jaw and took a step back. He wanted nothing more than to get on his knees and beg his father for forgiveness, but he knew he wasn't real. Ceremus knew if he folded in this moment, he would truly be lost.
Still, the image remained solid, unwavering. Forcing his mind to believe what he was seeing wasn't fiction, but reality.
Ceremus closed his eyes.
Do not waver.
The voice was distinct this time—softer, warm yet firm. A voice he hadn't heard in years.
His mother.
"Keep your heart and mind at ease, my son. For if the heart is not calm, neither will the mind."