His heart light, Theo hurried toward the Stone Forest—where his father waited for him. The dark woods and creatures scrambling for cover no longer frightened him. No Samodivi roamed here—yet. When they did return, it wouldn’t be to harm humans as everyone thought. They would care for the animals and keep an eye out for the evil Youdi.
The sun rose high in the sky as Theo exited the carved stairs and stepped out into the Stone Forest. His father, still a dragon, perched in the place Theo had found the statue. Did the magic of the sacred place prevent Zmey from shifting into human form?
“My son.” Zmey’s words seeped into Theo’s mind. “I must return to Zmeykovo.”
“I’ll come with you,” Theo said out loud. He could see Diva again, and Boo, and—
A warm burst of air roused Theo from his thoughts.
“Soon. I want nothing more than to keep you with me.” Zmey’s eyes darkened. “But I must restore order in my kingdom, and deal with the Youdi, Harpies, and others.”
“I can help you.”
“Yes, you have proven your bravery.” Zmey lowered his head to Theo’s level. “I need you to remain in Selo and take care of your human family.”
Theo nodded. He’d make sure Nia was okay, and help Vela adjust to her new life.
“Goodbye for now, my son. We’ll meet again soon. I’ll tell you about what you can expect when you gain your powers.”
“Powers? Like flying and hearing animals talk?” Theo put his hand on the dragon’s cheek.
Zmey chuckled. “Yes, among others. I see I’m too late for the mystical creatures facts-of-life talk.”
Theo nodded. “Bye ... Father.” The word felt good to say, and he smiled.
Zmey flapped his wings and soared toward the sky. He roared a final farewell and blew out a stream of fire. Theo kept his eyes glued to the spot until his father had disappeared.
He wondered if he’d be able to fly in Selo, or if he could fly only in the mystical land of Dragon Village. He climbed onto the half-broken pillar. The wind stirred and embraced him. Or was it his Samodiva mother? She didn’t speak, but a soft kiss warmed his cheek. With her love empowering him, the bumps beneath his arms grew until his wings unfurled.
Everything would be fine. He had come a long way from the boy who dropped out of the sky and waved an arrow at a Harpy. Never again would he doubt his courage. The medallion on his chest beat like a second heart. Theo spread his wings and leapt into the air. He was special and would never be ordinary again.
Author’s Note
The song that Nia sings is an old Bulgarian folk song, The Flute Plays, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaval_sviri.
Кавал свири
Кавал свири, мамо,
горе доле, мамо, горе доле, мамо.
Кавал свири мамо,
горе доле, мамо, под селото.
Я ще ида, мамо, да го видя,
да го видя, мамо, да го чуя.
Ако ми е нашенчето
ще го любя ден до пладне,
Ако ми е ябанджийче
ще го любя дор до живот.
***
Kaval sviri
Kaval sviri, mamo,
gore, dole, mamo, gore, dole, mamo.
Kaval sviri, mamo,
gore dole, mamo, pod seloto.
Ja shte ida mamo da go vidja,
da go vidya mamo, da go chuja.
Ako mi e nashencheto
shte go lubja den do pladne,
ako mi e jabandzhijche,
shte go lubja dor do zhivot.
About the Author
Ronesa Aveela is a freelance artist and writer who lives near Boston, MA. She likes writing mystery romance inspired by legends and tales. In her free time she paints. Her artistic interests include the female figure, Greek and Thracian mythology, folklore tales, and the natural world interpreted through her eyes. Ronesa is married and has two children.
Ronesa’s Books
Mystical Emona: Soul’s Journey
Light Love Rituals: Bulgarian Myths, Legends, and Folklore
The Unborn Hero of Dragon Village
Baba Treasure Chest series
The Christmas Thief
The Miracle Stork
Born From the Ashes
Mermaid’s Gift
Adult Coloring Books
Mermaids Around the World
More Mermaids Around the World
Cookbook
Mediterranean & Bulgarian Cuisine: 12 Easy Traditional Favorites
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The Unborn Hero of Dragon Village Page 26
