Chapter 167. What You Have to Pay for Power

Astrid

Meredith's hideout was a place of quiet seclusion, nestled deep within the heart of the forest. The cabin, constructed from weathered wood and stone, blended seamlessly with its surroundings, almost as if it had grown there naturally. Thick vines and moss clung to the exterior, giving it an ancient, almost mystical appearance. It was a place where the modern world seemed to fade away, replaced by the timeless rhythms of nature.

Inside, the air was thick with the scent of herbs and earth. The main room was modest but cozy, dominated by a large stone fireplace that crackled with a welcoming fire. The flickering flames cast dancing shadows on the walls, which were lined with shelves overflowing with jars of dried herbs, roots, and mysterious potions. Bundles of sage, lavender, and other aromatic plants hung from the ceiling beams, their fragrances mingling in the warm air.

A large wooden table occupied the center of the room, its surface covered with an assortm