Prologue

I ran. There was nothing else to do. I ran for my life, for the person I had ceased to be, yet was trying to save. Even my wings were to tired to fly me. It was cold and dark, and I was alone. I wasn't afraid of being alone though, being alone is good, because if there was someone here then I would still be in the hell they trapped me in.

I didn't know where I am. I just regained control of my self, and ran. I couldn't winnow, they had a track on my magic. I couldn't even risk a fire, so I huddled into a ball, wrapping my weary wings around me, hoping to stay safe in the damp cave.

My sides and back and neck and everywhere ached. I was covered head to toe in whip lashes and burn marks and scars. It would have been a relief to die, but the Mother won't let me so clearly she needs me for something else, although I don't know what.

It hurts so much. I can't take it. I can't take the constant burn running through my legs, down my arms, up my back and the pounding in my head.

It would be so nice to just shut my eyes for a little bit. It's been days since I've slept, but the beasts are still hunting me. The hounds are out, their masters too, and I have to keep moving. But sleep calls me.

I curl tighter, and dig my nails into my legs, praying the pain will keep me awake. That won't happen though. I'm already in pain, and that won't keep me awake.

The dark is so nice, so, so nice, but I can't, not yet. I have to wait. What if, what if I sleep and wake up soon? Yes, just a little bit. I really need it, so why not?

My eyes flutter close. The instinct that was trying to keep me awake silenced. It was so quiet. Why was the forest so quiet? Something is here.

Too late. I'm gone to the dark, sleep coming to claim me at last.

Did you like this? This is just the prologue, and you'll actually learn who the character is next chapter. And yes, there will be some of our favourite Illyrians in this story…

-CrystalShadowStar