Dark eyes, shining out from her full cowl veil, scanned them before she stepped aside and allowed them to enter.
The inside of the monastery was a world of its own, peaceful and serene.
It was a space of meditation and recollection.
Soft light filtered through stained glass windows, casting colorful patterns on the cold stone floors.
The air was heavy with the scent of beeswax and old wood, and the distant sound of nuns chanting permeated the atmosphere.
They were led down a long corridor, theshimagele’sfootsteps echoing in the stillness.
She was a lean, spare creature.
Her back was ramrod straight, and her posture told of her disapproval at their presence.
She’d since lifted the shroud that had veiled her face, and Saba peeked at the harsh lines, thin lips, and sunken cheeks.
Cold and icy, her eyes sliced at Saba, discouraging any unnecessary prattle from her and Shiloh.
Saba glanced away at the unfolding view, including glimpses of cloaked luminaries gliding through the inner terrace, visible through a series of arched doors.
‘Does she know we’re coming?’ Shiloh ventured.
‘Nada,’ShimaKemisa replied. ‘We kept your visit undisclosed for her well-being.’
‘I see,’ Saba murmured, not quite understanding her meaning.
She shared a glance with her sister, followed by a shrug.
‘We’ll soon find out more,’ Shiloh whispered in her ear.
‘Take care on the step,’ theShimainstructed, leading them into the courtyard. Stone garden walls created natural terraces with grassy areas and cultivated gardens. Winding paths and steps led to focal points of urns, a grotto, and a gazebo.
Lush plants filled the spaces, a mix of exotic and native species.
A fountain spouted water that sparkled like diamonds in the sun, filling the air with tinkling notes that resembled birdsong.
A small group of nuns stood in a cluster, their faces obscured by the shadows of an immense tree. They huddled together, their voices a murmur against the reverent atmosphere.
They passed them, and they fell silent, eyes on their progress.
They headed towards a petite chapel at the end of the open space.
Theshimagelepaused at the heavy frosted door. ‘She’s inside. Praying. I suggest you join her first in prayer before you speak with her.’
She opened the door, and a wave of incense and candle wax hung in the air, a reminder of the constant devotional practices in the sanctuary.
The sun’s rays illuminated the interior through the dome-shaped stained glass windows, casting dancing patterns on the stone walls.
The room was austere and straightforward, with only a scattering of altars and a basic wooden cross embellishing it.
At the center was a figure cloaked in simplicity, sitting in intense prayer.
Her head was bowed, a lean through her shoulders.
Shiloh and Saba stood together; their presence was felt but not acknowledged.
After a few minutes, she raised her head, lifted her veil, and gazed at them.
