Chapter 138: Returning to the Village

Their surplus foods and goods were packed onto wheeled carts and they started the journey to the village. The weather was perfect and Astra loved watching the clouds pass by with their colors of the rainbow reflected off their surface. The tree canopy was still thick so she only got glimpses. “Oh look Marcus. That cloud has all the colors of the rainbow. I feel like they are landing on me and tingling my skin.” She laughed happily and Marcus had to grin at her display of pleasure.  

As they continued, they came to the large area where the Shaman had held their Meeting. Astra had become quiet as they passed through. Marcus pulled her over to the side so the carts could continue. He took her in his arms to hold her for a moment. She clung tightly to him. “This area holds disturbing memories for you. I can feel it.” Astra leaned away from him to look up into his eyes. “Yes, this is where I first met Ivar. We had so many things happen to us during our time together. I was wondering what he was doing now.” Marcus drew her to a large stone for them to sit on. He turned and took her hand. “You know, after we get settled in, we could look for him. That’s up to you though. We should look for him when you’re ready though. Right now  I sense there is much turmoil in your body and mind. Let’s get everything settled in your village then consider finding Ivar.” Astra stared at Marcus, “How did I mate with such a wonderful man. I love him so much. I could never live without him. He completes me.” 

Marcus took her by the arm and they continued on the path to the village. As they walked, so many memories came to Astra. She had lived many years in the area and had explored every inch. She wondered who was still living there. How many had moved on? 

As they got closer to the village, Astra’s excitement increased. She hadn’t realized she had increased her pace until Marcus mentioned it. “If you walk any faster, you’ll soon be running.” He chuckled. She looked up at him, “I didn’t realize I was walking so fast. I’m just getting excited. I’m wondering who the Shaman is now. Is my mother still alive? Hopefully she is and I can hug her once again.” Marcus had been watching her and enjoying her eagerness. He was glad she was so happy. He hoped she wouldn’t find any disappointment once they got there. 

They rounded a bend and as they got closer to the village there were more and more homes that had been made. Astra was amazed at how the village had spread out. As they got closer, they could hear the barking of dogs and children at play. Their carts entered first and all eyes turned in their direction. Marcus and Astra walked beside the carts. Astra looked around trying to see if there was anyone she recognized. She had been gone for more then ten years and it was evident changes had been made. She looked toward the hut that she had called home for so long. It was still standing but more rooms had been added making it larger. 

They came to a stop in the center of the Ceremonial Circle. Many of the villagers had already surrounded the carts looking at what had been brought. Astra saw a group of Elder standing off to the side and held out her arms to them. The Elders finally approached. Elder Toven walked to Astra leaning close. “Oh my word, is it Astra returning?” Astra hugged her and said, “It is I, Elder. I’ve missed all of you so much. It is good to be returning.” She turned and found Marcus standing to the side smiling at her. She took his arm, pulling him toward the Elder. “This is my mate Marcus. He is the most wonderful mate ever. Is my mother around?” She held her breath not wanting to hear any bad news. “Yes, she is in her home. She is still our Shaman but she is currently teaching one of our most intuitive young woman to take her place someday. I’m sure she heard the commotion.

Astra looked toward her old home. She saw the door open and a woman stepping out. She looked up and their eyes met. Astra started running toward her mother while she stood there with her arms open wide and a huge smile. They hugged as their bodies came in contact. Their happiness reflected on their faces. Marcus had followed Astra and stood to the side so mother and daughter could be together. He was so happy for her and his grin was from ear to ear. 

Astra wanted her mother to meet Marcus. She turned toward him and motioned him over. “Mother, I’d like you to meet my mate, Marcus. He is everything to me.” Jalen took Marcus by the shoulders and stared into his eyes. He felt like she was looking into his soul. She finally let him go and stepped back. “Astra, you did well. I see that he is noble and true. You will have many babies with him and they will be a blessing.” 

Astra looked over at Marcus with a question on her face. He smiled and nodded his head. He wanted to make so many babies with her. Jalen had been watching Marcus and chuckled as she opened the door to her home. She motioned for them to join her and they entered and stopped looking around. Astra was amazed at the changes that had been made. 

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