That Which Consumes

Ch’Truta sat by the roaring fire. More warrior came, both male and female. Ch’Truta was surprised the number of females joining the ranks of the growing army. In the Ch’Ulla brood, the females were more gatherers, the men hunters and warriors.

Ch’Truta gazed into the flames. Within the flames, he saw the destruction. Flames not only offered protection from the nocturnal creatures of the wild and warmth from the cool of the night, but it also consumed all that it touched.

This hunger of the flames drew Ch’Truta’s attention. The fire was the same as Uctilo’rhu The Devourer in the Mist. He who comes in the Dark. God of the Still Valley. Uctilo’rho was the God of the swamp. The ancient one. He offered the brood protection from outside influences as long as they paid homage through sacrifice. He offered the warmth of security as well. However, he also consumed all he came across, who was stubborn enough to be alone in the swamp, especially in the night.

Silently, Ch’Truta whispered, “I serve you God of the Swamp. Lead and provide direction through the spirits. When I seek you, answer me.”

He continued watching the consumption of the fuel upon the fire. Long into the night, he meditated upon his god and the direction he was taking Ch’Truta. Then, in the wee hours, ChTruta unrolled his blanket, sleeping by the fire, the one who consumes.