Chapter 9 The Village

The warrior led them through the jungle, the sounds of the river growing fainter as they walked. Sophia's mind was still reeling from the revelation about her connection to the lost city. As they emerged from the jungle, Sophia saw a village spread out before them. The houses were made of wood and thatch, and smoke drifted lazily from the cooking fires. The warrior led them to the center of the village, where a large hut stood. He pushed aside the curtain and gestured for them to enter. Inside, the hut was cool and dark.

Sophia's eyes adjusted slowly, and she saw a figure seated on a throne-like chair. The figure stood, and Sophia saw that it was a woman. She was tall and stately, with long silver hair that fell down her back like a river of moonlight. "Welcome, Sophia," the woman said, her voice low and husky. "I have been waiting for you." Sophia felt a shiver run down her spine. Who was this woman, and how did she know her name? "I am Akua," the woman said, as if reading Sophia's mind. "I am the guardian of the village, and the keeper of its secrets." Sophia's eyes locked onto Akua's. She felt a sense of fascination, mixed with a little fear. "What secrets?" Sophia asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Akua smiled, her eyes glinting with amusement. "The secrets of the lost city," she said. "And the secrets of your own past."