Chapter 27: The Old Lady, Part 2

The Benandanti, or Good Walkers as they called themselves, were humans who battled evil witches and werewolves-known as the Malandanti- and who worshiped the goddess of the moon, Diana. The calling to become a Benandanti happened at birth. Women and men born with a caul-an inner fetal membrane still covering the head-were believed to have mysterious healing powers and the ability to see witches. And much like the "shaman" of other cultures, the Benandanti claimed they left their bodies at night, and while out, they healed people and protected them. Unfortunately, they came under persecution by the Roman Inquisition and were tried as heretics, leading to the extinction of the cult.

Still, a few intriguing lines amid the graceful block of words seemed to tell the opposite.

 

If you seek guidance my brother, wait for

the Ember Days. The depths of the forest shall be the place.

Open your eyes and heart, and a good walker you will find.