"I am a guardian of the river," the old man replied, his voice low and gravelly. "And you, young one, are a seeker of magic."
The Shona River Night Walk
Tendai nodded, feeling a sense of wonder wash over her.
As she opened her eyes, the old man nodded in approval. "The river has heard your wish, Tendai. May its magic guide you on your journey."
The old man handed her a small pouch filled with sacred river stones. "Make a wish, Tendai," he said. "But be warned, the river's magic comes with a price. What you wish for may not be what you truly desire."
"Who are you?" she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.