Chapter Twenty Six: Rebellion and the Weight of Truth

With newfound resolve, Sister Kenet headed toward a hidden meeting, where a faction of inland mothers led by Mother Malta was already gathering in secret. Inside the dimly lit chamber, the women formed a circle, their faces alight with a shared sense of rebellion.

Mother Malta spoke with a voice laced with defiance, “My dear mothers and sisters, we cannot leave our fate in the hands of those three young girls. Overa has always thrived by our own strength. I will not wait for Mother Cora or Rozia to decide what happens to us. We have gifts of our own, and it’s time we took control.”

The women murmured in agreement, a few casting dark looks towards the center where a once-sacred Goddess Tree had stood, its memory haunting them. Kenet stepped into the circle, her eyes now back to normal, and joined their ranks, her newfound power simmering within her like a dangerous secret.