Seducer of Souls - Chapter Five - Eight

CHAPTER 6

Silvery light surrounded her as she floated in gently oblivion.  She did not know how long this peace would last, but relieved for the respite from the fear and pain that lay beyond this place.
A door had appeared before her some time ago, now it beckoned for her to pass through.  She resisted, wanting only to remain in this safe haven.

The sound of Joshua's voice whispered in her mind. "You can't linger any longer."
Annoyed she tried to push the thoughts aside.
"Come" he insisted.
Her anger flared, now that her peace had been shattered, stepping forward, she flew through the transparent door.

"Why could you not leave me alone?" she shouted.
Joshua settled his sad eyes upon her face. "Hiding here will not resolve your problems."
"I am not hiding," said Ann.
"Your fear ruled all that as happened since becoming Draken's prisoner."
Overcome with fright and resentment she collapsed into tears, her body shock with the intensity of her wretchedness.
Joshua waited patently until she gathered her self-control. "You have the ability to recognise Draken's spell of illusion."
"How?" said Ann.
"You can learn to see the web of his magic as it unfolds.  Your fear will be conquered hencefore."
"I know the illusions aren't real but I just can't seem to help myself."
"Use your natural fiery gifts to shield you."
Shaking her head vehemently, she said, "No."
"What is it that you fear?"
"If that power gets away from me, people will die," she whispered.
Joshua floated to face her. "I believe you have the compassion and respect for life not to let that happen."

She looked into his calm, composed face, envying him his strong belief.
Running away from the truth had led nowhere and solved nothing.  Grappling with her uncertainties, she strolled around the room.
Joshua waited.

Finally, she turned to him. "What should I do?"

Recognising the great turmoil within her Joshua said, "Help is on the way."
Seeing hope flash in her eyes he continued. "Your friends are coming to try and rescue you.  Its up to you though if they succeed."
Feeling a renewed determination she said, "I have to hold on until they reach me....  OK, teach me how to protect myself from Draken's illusions."
Joshua smiled. "Let us begin."

* * * * *

Geran pushed his evening meal around the fine silver dinning plate.  For many days, Ann had been lost in a deep slumber.  This unconsciousness had bereft him of rest and the want for nourishment.  Despite the healer's ability to cure her wounds, her persistent sleep disturbed them and troubled him. Where did her mind hide?  Would she come back?

"Please stop playing with your food," snapped Niriam.
Geran graced her with a sullen look. "I'm not hungry."
Sitting back in her chair Niriam watched him. "Why are you so churned up about this girl?"
"I would have thought that was obvious.  She is a brilliant choice for a queen."
 Niriam's irritation rose. "You can find another."
"Not like her," whispered Geran.

The dinning room doors flew open and the head healer of the household barged in.
"I am sorry to disturbed you lord Draken, but she has awoken."
Jumping up, Geran raced out of the dinning hall towards the main staircase.  Taking two at a time, he ran upwards in the direction of her chamber.
As he reached the door of her room, he slowed to a walk, giving himself time to regain his composure before entering.

Stepping into the room, he beheld Ann sitting up in the large bed she had slept in for nearly two weeks.
Her face still held a painful paleness that only sunlight would reverse, but her eyes flashed with light and a renewed confidence that caused him to pause.

He smiled when she looked in his direction. "I am pleased to see you have recovered."