Chapter 25. The Test

When she finished speaking, she felt a great burden lift off her shoulders and a gentle nudge in her mind. It felt like encouragement from Storm, even though he remained silent. Surely, he had been listening.

The elderly dryad looked pensive. The twigs on his face somehow deepened, if that were even possible. He turned to his counterpart who was still standing behind Germaine and said something to him. Suddenly, the twines around her hands were removed and a stool appeared.

“You may sit.” The elderly dryad said to her kindly.

Relief poured through Germaine and she smiled and thanked him before sitting. Murmurings rose amongst the other dryads in front of her.

“Listen to me, fellow tree spirits. The elderly dryad addressed them, the earthling will stay for the feast. After that, I will decide if what she says is the truth or not.” Turning to Germaine, he continued. “If I find out you speak anything but the truth, mark my words, your blood will be spilled direc