AN: Oi! It took a long time to write this chapter. Again I'm sorry for the very long break. Unfortunately, lifehas been really hectic. I'll try to keep regular updateson my progress with the story on my bio page. Now, on with the story!
Chapter 7: Out of Harm's Way
As the bond of sleep lifted, the first thing Hannah noticed was the heavy feeling in her body and limbs. Grey eyes slowly opened, and took in the unfamiliar room. Jerking up in panic, she quickly searched her surroundings. Scrambling out of her covers she realized that standing was not an option as her legs refused to even carry her, and dizziness made her fall on the soft bed again.
"Oh, you're finally awake I see." It was the same voice in her dream; Hannah stared as the petite woman moved to her side (she sort of reminds me of Poppy).
"Who are you? Where am I!"
"Shhhh…calm down," the lady said in a gentle, but firm tone. "You've only just recovered from your fever. Stop moving!"
Hannah froze, but was so confused at her circumstances that she couldn't help but try to protest.
"Hush. I'm Selise by the way. Here, let me look at your wounds." She brought Hannah's shift up, and Hannah's eyes widened at the angry marks that decorated her stomach and thighs. Then like a wave, she was bombarded with images of the attack. That man! A dragon! He tried to…wait what about the others? Oh God, Lupe and Poppy! Are they alright? How'd I get here?
Selise could see the inner turmoil in Hannah's eyes. Gently holding the trembling girl's shoulders, she laid her back down.
"Shhh…I know you're confused and frightened, but believe me, you're safe now. Nobody's going to hurt you."
"But…where am I?"
"You're somewhere safe. Now, I'll be right back…" "NO, don't leave me!"
"I'm just going to get Nivar. He's the one who brought you here." Gently, she extracted her arm from young woman's grasp.
"I'll only be gone for a moment. Rest here, you've had a traumatic week. Just rest now." Hannah stared after her. Selise's heart clenched at how like a lost little girl she was. It was this fragility that made her doubt Nivar's words. Yes, this girl certainly looked like Hanae, but that was apparently where the similarities ended. Then again, she had to give the girl a benefit of a doubt. Her life had been turned upside-down. It'll take some time for her to get her feet back underneath her. Maybe then they'll see more of the woman they remember.
Xxxxxxxxxx
The crisp mountain air filled Nivar's lungs, cleansing him with its gentle fingers. For the first time in months, he felt himself relax as he took in the scents and sounds of his home. A noise behind him alerted him to her presence, but he remained turned away. Only a small grin graced his features.
Selise took her seat beside him on the rocky perch. It had been so long since she'd last seen him. That night had been filled with the air of possibility. When he'd kissed her, she felt the warmth seep throughout her body. They'd spent hours on this same perch, spending whatever time they had left together before he left the following morning.
At first, she couldn't bring herself to see him off, but eventually gave in to the impulse. She ran to this point, adrenaline pulsed through her as she searched the rocky passes below. Just when she was about give up, she saw his small figure making its way down the path. Her heart almost stopped when he stilled. Suddenly, he turned around slightly, his eyes found hers for just a moment before he continued down the slope. That last glance stayed with her, and she dreamt that she could even see his familiar grin, there just for her.
And now here we are again.
Feelings of indecision began to sink their claws into her. That was five months ago, where do they stand now? Does he still feel anything if at all for her? Just then she felt his calloused hand grasp hers, and squeeze slightly. It was such an innocent gesture, but it delighted her just the same. She could feel her brilliant smile on her face, but still he was turned away from her.
Finally, his eyes met hers. This is it. He's here. We can return to where we left off. All these thoughts were jarred out of her mind at his next words.
"How is she?"
For just a moment, a spark of jealousy and hurt flared inside her. Quickly she staunched the unwelcome feelings. Nivar stared expectantly at her, and awaited her answer. It took a second to school her features, and allow the healer to overtake the broken-hearted woman. With a mask of professionalism, she replied in a calm tone, "She's awake, but very disoriented and weak. I'll keep her in bed for another day or so, so that she can regain some of her health back."
He gave a sharp nod. "Very well, but she must start her training soon. Selise, the dragon that attacked her…it was Dashear." He ignored her shocked gasp and continued, "I didn't recognize him at first until we were on our way here. I should have killed him there and then, and it angers me that I didn't take the chance."
"You had the girl to look after. Don't be so hard on yourself." Silence fell between them. Selise mulled over this new disturbing revelation. How could Dashear be awake? How could anyone be foolish, much less powerful enough to break the ancient spell?
"You must understand that this changes things. Time is running out, and we don't even have the means to prevent it."
"And you think that this woman, no girl, will be able to save us?" He turned sharply at her incredulous tone.
"Are you saying you doubt me?" His voice couldn't completely hide the hurt, and she looked away guiltily.
"No, yes, I don't know. It just seems so hopeless!" She stood up suddenly, arms tightly wrapped around her.
"Never before have you questioned me." Nivar approached her until he was right behind her. Embracing her from behind, he laid his head against her. "Don't lose faith, Sela." Don't lose faith in me.
Turing around, she allowed him to embrace her. "I haven't." This is what I've missed. But then she turned serious again. "But, she doesn't remember anything."
"Which is why we must help her, and fast. I'm not surprised really that she has no memory of the past. Her soul was damaged, of course it would try to shield itself from further heartache. We just have to try to reach her somehow."
"Then what do you plan to do, you can't force her to remember." Unless…at his grim face, her eyes widened. "You can't be serious." Having heard no response, she removed herself from his arms, and quickly backed away. "You have any idea what damage you could cause, and you say that you care about her."
"I do care about her, but we must get her back. We must get Hanae back, which is why I need you!"
Maternal feelings blocked out any of her past jealousy. "To awaken a soul that doesn't want to be is not only cruel, it's suicidal. You could get lost in her mind!"
"Selise!"
"No, I won't let you."
"We don't have a choice. I told you, we need to work fast. We can't survive the coming time without her. We need her whole!" They both stood there, neither backing down.
Selise finally bowed her head, although she still hated the idea, she couldn't help but see the Nivar was right. They didn't have many alternatives. If the Night Worlders could revive an immensely powerful dragon like Dashear, then what's to stop them from awakening more dragons, even the Prince himself. Icy terror flooded her mind. Oh Goddess, not even the Night World could possibly do that, could they?
Looking back at the cabin that held her patient, she tried to steel herself for the upcoming ordeal. They must proceed with great care. A part of her still couldn't believe that they were actually considering this route, but they have to do what is necessary. She just hoped that the price wouldn't be too much to bear.
Resigned but determined, she looked at him. "Come, she must be worried. We've been too long already."
With a smile that didn't reach his eyes, Nivar nodded. "Lead the way."
Hannah could barely keep her eyes open for much longer. It was strange; she expected to feel more pain, but all she felt was soothing warmth all over. Healers are definitely on my list of favorites, right up there with Snickers. She let out a nervous laugh. Okay, I'm seriously messed up. Mom was right; I do make jokes at inappropriate times. Oh God! Mom, she must be so worried. I wonder if she's called Thierry. I told her I'd call every week. How long have I been out! And Thierry!
Before she could continue her distressing thoughts, the healer lady had come back, and with her was… "YOU! I remember you, from the café, and…" my dream!
Nivar smiled kindly at her. "Hello, I'm Nivar, though I'm called Nicholas by others. I'm sorry that we had to meet the way we did, but you're here now and that's all that matters."
"Nicholas, Nivar," she muttered to herself. There was something about him. She sensed it in the café that day. Then it hit her when she stared at his face, or more specifically his eyes. They were a deep forest green, but that wasn't what caught her attention. It was the sadness in them. She recognized that look; she'd seen it enough in her own eyes. It comes from lifetimes of experiences, all the joy and heartache and the knowledge of just how cruel fate could be. They were eyes like hers, that of an Old Soul.
"You recognize us, don't you? We're like you." Selise gave her a small smile, but it couldn't erase her poignant expression.
Nivar came forward, his expression gentle. He reached for her hand, which she let him hold. Something told Hannah that this man would never hurt her. "You have nothing to fear from us, Hanae. You'll always be safe here."
She started at the name her called her. Hanae. It was the same name he called her in dream, and the little girl (what was her name?) Reve. But, I could swear that I've never been called that. I don't remember any life where I was called that. But what about the dream! Maybe they are actual memories, but why can't I remember anything else. Oh! It's so confusing. My head's starting to pound with all my questions.
"I'm sorry but you must be mistaken, I've never been called that before. My name is Hannah. I'm sorry but you have the wrong person." I may be an Old Soul, but I'm still an ordinary girl, who just happens to have a vampire boyfriend. Arghh… weird dreams, powers I've never known about, dragons, and now these people. Why is all this happening to me!
"Are you absolutely sure that you've never been Hanae?" What's with this guy? Oh course, I'm sure…I am.
At her confused look, he took pity on her. "Hannah right, you said that that is your name." Kneeling beside the trembling young woman, he lifted her chin so she would look at him. "I'm sorry that you're going through this. I can't imagine how terrifying this all must be for you. However, I think deep down you know that you are who we think you are." His words made her glance over at the silent woman behind him. She'd remained silent this whole time. Does, she think I'm this Hanae person too?
Selise gave her another smile. "It's a lot to take in. I know with each new lifetime I remembered, it always overwhelmed me."
"But I don't remember, that's the point!"
"You will, in time." Somehow that sounded ominous to her. Maybe she didn't want to remember. By just the few glimpses she already saw, she could tell that it was not a very happy life. Grandma always said that some locked doors are just not meant to be open. Maybe that's true for memories as well. I don't care what shrinks say; sometimes repressed memories should just stay that way, repressed. Locked away forever.
With new resolve, she withdrew her hand from Nivar, and at the same time pushed herself up. Hannah avoided his restraining hands and stood up. Her legs were shaky, but she would not give up.
"Hanae, stop! You're going to hurt yourself again!" Both Nivar and Selise rushed to her side, but Hannah stopped them with an outstretched arm.
"Stop calling me that, please. Look, I thank you for saving me, but I must get back home. My friends and family must be frantic. I have to go home. I'm sorry, but I'm not the girl you think I am, at least not anymore. What does one life matter anyway?" All the while she'd been gradually shuffling toward the door.
"It matters more than you think." So much more.
Selise tried to go to her, but Nivar stopped her. He ignored her questioning look and protest. "Fine, we won't force you to stay here." Hannah stared at him in disbelief. "But, you are still unwell. It's not safe for you to go right now."
"I don't care. I have to go." Her hand was on the doorknob when his voice stopped her.
"Then you'll never learn the truth, will you?"
"It doesn't matter, not now."
"If it doesn't, then why are you starting to remember now, after all this time? It can't be a coincidence; Hanae, you and I both know that those don't exist. And what of your powers?"
Hannah clenched her eyes shut. As much as she was afraid to do it, the urge to find out what her dreams and powers meant was growing stronger. What he said was true. If they didn't matter, then why were they happening now?
Selise let go of the breath she'd been holding in relief when Hannah turned around. Glancing at Nivar at the corner of her eye, she could tell that he was relieved to when his demeanor softened, as all the tension faded away.
With a deep breath, Hannah opened her eyes and looked at the two in front of her. She needed to take it easy. With every moment that passed her strength was slowly seeping away. "If I stay, how will I learn more about my past life, and these powers?"
Nivar stepped up to her. "You aren't alone in this. We'll help you remember who you once were, and I'll teach you to control your newly awakened power."
"Okay, but I have to call my family, and tell them I'm alright."
"That's fine, but you mustn't tell them where you are, or anything about us." "But…" "This is not only for our safety but yours as well. No one must know, especially your vampire." Hannah was about to protest more, but seeing his firm expression she realized that there was no room for negotiation in this matter. She gave him a sharp nod. To Selise, he said, "Tell Tomas to get a room ready in the main compound, and to connect a phone as well." Selise gave Hannah another small smile before she left.
"What is this place?"
Turning back to her, he responded, "Think of it as a sort of refuge, or sanctuary. Now we must get going; there are a lot of people who want to meet you, Hannah."
"Me? Why?" He didn't answer, but continued toward the door. Before, he reached it, it burst open.
"Uncle Nick! Is it true, is she really here!" Hannah startled at the sudden appearance of what appeared to be a mass of shiny brown curls. Then she saw the little girl's face, and froze. Shock ran though her.
"Reve, now what have I told you about barging in other people's rooms," but the small girl of about 8 or 9 ignored him. Instead, she took one look at Hannah, and launched herself at her. Hannah barely had time to steady herself before one very strong girl latched her arms around her.
"It is you. I knew you'd come back! You said you would!"
Hannah still couldn't say a word. Oh my God! Reve.
"That little one has been waiting a long time for her sister." A very long time.
Sister? What?
Nivar looked kindly on the pair. "Reve, why don't you help Nela bring food for Hannah, okay."
"Hannah? Oh, that's what you're called now, isn't. My name is Rachel, but Uncle Nick still calls me Reve."
Hannah grinned at the little girl, her shock wearing off. Guess I'm getting better at handling surprises. Then her stomach rumbled. "Food sounds like agood idea." I better get comfortable, I'm going to be here for a while. Reve, no Rachel, giggled. Hannah ruffled her hair, which just made the young girl giggle again. Reve waved goodbye before she hurried out the door.
Hannah's joyful expression turned serious as she turned back to Nivar. "How long do you think it'll take me to learn control, and gain my memories?"
"Hopefully not long, unfortunately we don't have much time."
At her confused look, he continued, "Already, both sides, light and dark, are preparing for the war ahead. We must be ready, as well."
His statement prompted her to look at him closely. She realized the meaning behind his words, and a sudden flicker of fear bloomed within her. "You plan on fighting whatever it is we're up against, but how. No one really knows what to expect is going to happen in the future, but you do. Why is that?"
"All in due time, Hannah. For now, just concentrate on getting well." His words just left her feeling unsatisfied and suspicious. However, she really didn't have any choice but to trust him. Her thoughts turned to her soulmate, and she wondered what he was doing. He's probably running himself ragged with worry trying to find her and any information about the dragon. The image of black haired shapeshifter made her tremble, and she banished the memory from her thoughts. Weight of everything she'd learned pressed down on her mind. It was too much to take in all at once, but she had to do it. There was so much yet to learn.
With a new determination, she shook herself out of her dazed state. With clear eyes she said, "If you can help me like you say, then I'll do whatever it takes learn about my powers and past." Nivar was amazed at her sudden transformation, and it gave him new hope. She was already on her way to becoming the woman she was, who she was destined to be. He'll do everything he can to help her.
Xxxxxxxxxxx
A knock on his door shocked Thierry awake. He looked over at the clock on his nightstand and groaned. He'd only had two hours of sleep in the past three days, and his body was at its limits. The impatient knocks continued, before the person just let himself in.
Thierry glared at Darius, who just stood there unaffected. "What is it now?"
"Just thought you'd like to know that Keller and Dominic just reported in, and they say that have something that would interest you immensely."
"Really? Did they tell you anything about this new information?"
"No, just to have a cell ready, and a healer."
"Good Goddess, they've captured someone!"
"I know, by the sound of Keller's tone on the phone, I think it's someone important."
"Well, before we get our hopes up, let's see what kind of information this person has."
"Do you want me to tell the other leaders?"
"Not yet, it might be better to interrogate the person ourselves, than let the others go at him. I know how Drache is, and I don't approve of his methods of extracting information."
"They won't like our secrecy, but I agree. It might be better if we do it ourselves."
"Fine then, I'll send for Marie, and ask her to get Thea."
"No, not Thea."
At his friend's interruption, Thierry looked at him confused, "why not her, she's one the best healers we have."
"Keller also said it would be better if no Harmans or Redferns know about the captive."
"Hmm…okay, I'll ask Keira to meet us down in the holding cells. However, if the person needs more aid than she can provide, then I'll ask for Thea."
"Fine, I'll go ahead down to the holding cells, and secure the area."
"Good, we have to be as discrete as possible."
Darius nodded, then started to leave, but then he stopped and cursed.
"What? What's wrong?"
"We'll have to probably hold this little interview later, or do it fast."
"What, oh hell, the party! People should be arriving in a few hours. Damn it!"
"Thea, said that the several had already arrived, and the meeting will take place after the banquet."
"Fine, arghh…we'll just get Keller's prisoner situated, and then hopefully we'll get question him or her before the meeting. Go do what you have to do. I'll make sure that none of the other elders are suspicious or anything. I'll meet you in about half an hour. Don't start anything before I get there."
"Will do, have fun with the others!" With that he left before Thierry could respond; his laughter was heard down the hall. His excitement apparent at this new lead.
"Humph, yeah fun." Thierry got ready, and then left to meet with the alliance members and any new visitors.
TBC
Please, please r/r