The waves crash against the castle walls, spraying salt water mist into the room through the window. The scent of the sea fills the room; filling me with serenity. The moon hangs high in the sky, casting a pale light into the bedchamber. I know I should be sleeping. But my mind is filled with troubling thoughts of the events to come. 'Maybe I should just listen to father and marry Princess Amira . . .'
The wind began to howl outside. The storm was getting closer, stronger. I don't have much time. I've got to make my decision. Should I stay, or see the witch? 'Well, who said I have to leave forever?' A quick consult will do just fine. If I hurry I can be back before daybreak. Hastily I jump up out of bed, still in my night robe, and slip on my boots. I swing my bedroom door open as lightning cracks. Light bursts into the room, along with an unwanted quest. The witch, Mab, comes rushing past me. "There is not time for questions. I, Mad the Good Witch, as most refer to me; have come in your time of need." She says. Shocked, I stumble back onto my bed. "But, I didn't send for you." I mutter. "No need my dear boy. I felt your yearning, your cry nonetheless, deep in here." She bellows, clutching her bountiful chest. "My boy, you are in need of assistance. Nay! A miracle. But have no fear. I will be here for you. But ah, what is it my son, which troubles you?" Slowly I make my way toward the window, looking out toward the sea. "Mab, I have this this feeling that I am meant to be . . . not here. I am meant to be out there." By now I'm sure she thinks me insane. But after a short time she asks, "Where, my boy?" Her breath is hot on my neck. Spreading my arms wide, I gesture to the open ocean. "Out there." I whisper. Mad Mab giggles, gripping my shoulders tightly. "How badly do you want this, my son?" Shaking my head I laugh. And on a sigh I whisper, "With all the want in the world." Lightning bursts through the sky, a loud boom reverberates. And, in the back of my mind, I could've sworn I heard Mab cackling. She leans in close, and whispers in my ear, "Then it is done."
"Like those before you and me,
From one to another.
Bend bones and Gods design,
So mote it be."
Before what I know what is happening there's another burst of light, and I think it's the lightning again. But no, I'm burning from the waist down. My lungs are on fire and my legs are melting. I'm falling through the air and it's so bright. Burning white hot light and I can't see. Suddenly, there's a burst of pain. Such an excruciating pain I've never felt before. And then everything is black. I'm drowning in the sea of my subconscious. I'm drifting in the coldest, darkest depths if my mind . . . and I can't wake up.
