Sędusz

Deep within Poland, Dr. Marie Macewicz was hiking to a dig site.

Suddenly, the ground beneath Macewicz’s collapsed and she fell into the open space. The fall ended with a hard thud and her world faded to black.

Later, Macewicz woke and stood up. She looked around using the light above, seeing a vast ancient construct. A niche contained two statues. Perun, the god of thunder and order, and Veles, the god of chaos and the underworld. Artwork behind them depicted light and dark.

“Why are there statues of Perun and Veles and what roles do they serve here?” Macewicz asked.

“An important choice must be made, mortal,” a voice said as a ghostly figure appeared before the Perun statue.

“A choice to bring balance to the world or I guide you to your afterlife,” added a ghostly figure appearing before the Veles statue.

“How would I bring balance to the world?”

“For centuries since the last Sędusz, mortals lived as they please and souls unchecked. The scales are unbalanced, and the world scarred by the consequences.” Perun’s figure stated.

“Sędusz bring back balance and justice to the world by casting judgement on the dead and living for their sins and deeds, sending the dead to the appropriate afterlife, and doling out punishments to the living.” Veles’ figure added.

“We provide you with everything needed for such great responsibility,” they both stated.

After a pause, Macewicz spoke. “I know the immoralities of this world. I accept.”

A small amulet appeared, wrapping around her wrist. Her clothes changed to a traditional outfit of Poland of a white flat cap, blouse, and skirt. The differences were two black aprons and a long black veil with white backstitching, and black boots.

“So, this is how it all begins for me.”