Chapter 31: Memories in TearsZil’s POV 18 years ago It was raining cats and dogs when I noticed my mother leaving again. She put on her cape and left the room. I followed her until I saw her open the golden door. No one was allowed to enter that door. It was the coven law made by our grandmother. Our elders said that a powerful creature was hidden inside that kept the mountain alive and magical. For decades, because of the creatures hidden inside there, we never need to travel to other places to gather everything we need to live. Mother easily opened the door. A certain enchantment that I did not recognize. Every word was embedded in my head. The question of what that meant was left unanswered. Days passed and Mom hadn’t returned. Then weeks, and months, I patiently waited. One morning she returned as if she was not unseen for a few months. “Mom, I saw you in the woods at the secret mountain. You opened t

Chapter 33: Silent Cries Zaya’s POV I watched my mother leave and close the door behind her. And I dropped the act of toughing it out. I glanced at Uncle Kiel who did not care at all. I slowly walked back to the room, “I want to sleep for more, Uncle Kiel.” I said and closed the door. As soon as I locked the door, tears started pooling around my eyes. What have I done? I don’t get it at all. My mom has suffered enough, my parents fought for me. Aunt Hella died, and I never heard from my family back on the farm. Why did we have to fight? Maybe we could just surrender, and I could die for everyone. I felt sad but I did not want to cry. Whenever Mom was not looking, I felt my knees weakening, and scared. I sat on the floor and hug knees. I should not be scared, I should not feel lonely, and Mom and Dad will make things better. Eventually, everything should be fine. I had to wipe my face again and again, but my tears were t