HEMETIEN OF MARIC -1-
In a world where sin was misconstrued as a pathway to life, humanity succumbed to its allure, and evil's influence surpassed that of good. The gates of hell swung open, ushering in Lucifer and his legion of angelic demons to roam the earth. Witnessing the world's descent into darkness, Lucifer seized the opportunity to further his sinister agenda, corrupting humanity with an even more radical form of evil. The masses began to embrace a twisted ideology, one that glorified death as a means to attain life. And so, Lucifer's master plan was set in motion, paving the way for... THE STORY BEGINS
In the quaint city of Hemetien, nestled in the picturesque Maric of the Eastern Coast, there lived a wise and aged woman named Grante Stella. Born in 1538, Stella's life was a testament to her family's prosperity. Her parents, Clara and Richard, were renowned for their wealth and generosity. When Stella was just 28 in the year 1567, her parents and adorable younger brother embarked on a joyful journey to Mariton, a charming city near Southern Herkin, to attend a wedding celebration. The invitation had come from one of Richard's esteemed business associates. Stella, however, had to decline, as she had recently landed her dream job after months of fervent searching. With a mix of sadness and determination, she bid her family farewell, saying, "Dearest Mother and Father, I know how much this occasion means to you, and I'm deeply sorry to miss it. But you've always taught me the value of perseverance and hard work. My new role requires my immediate attention, and I couldn't bear to let you down.
As they prepared to depart, Stella's eyes shone with a mix of sadness and love. She embraced her family, her voice trembling with emotion. "I promise to wait for your return, and perhaps, a special gift will follow you home too." Her parents exchanged warm smiles, and Richard reassured her, "We promise to make you proud, dear Stella." Turning to her young Brother, James, she added, "And James, be sure to take good care of Mom and Dad, and don't get too carried away with playtime." James, with a sweet innocence, replied, "I promise, Sister. Even if I do, Mom and Dad will guide me." With a final, tender hug, they bid each other farewell. As the train chugged away to Mariton, Stella waved goodbye, her heart filled with love and longing. With haste, Stella rushed to the nearby bus station, her heart racing with anticipation. She had received an urgent message from her boss, reminding her of a crucial interview at the esteemed "World's Ears" company, a renowned state newspaper publisher. As she arrived, she hurried into the reception, where she met the friendly receptionist, Luck. With a warm smile, Luck checked Stella's name on the interview list and handed her an ID tag. Stella's heart fluttered with excitement and nerves, unsure of what lay ahead. As she waited, she whispered a silent prayer: "Lord, open my mind and heart to speak your words, let your wisdom shine like a beacon, guiding me, your child, Amen." Moments later, her name was called, and she entered the manager's office with poise. Their eyes met, and Stella greeted him with confidence. Her academic credentials were reviewed, and after a brief pause, Mr. Osber extended his hand, he introduced himself with a warm smile, "I'm the chief manager of World's Ears company. Your academic credentials are truly impressive, Stella. You've shown great potential." Stella's eagerness got the better of her, and she blurted out, "Sir, does that mean I got the job?" Mr. Osber chuckled and replied, "All will be revealed in due time, my dear. The announcement will speak for itself." As the last interviewee, Stella left Mr. Osber's office, accompanied by the chief manager himself. They walked in silence to the staircase, Stella's mind racing with uncertainty. But as they descended the stairs, she mustered up the courage to compliment the company, "Mr. Osber, you have a wonderful company with such lovely people." Mr. Osber's response was subtle yet telling, "Yes, you'll fit right in and make a great living with them." In that moment, Stella's heart skipped a beat as she realized she had landed the job. Eight minutes later, the tension in the auditorium hall was palpable. The clock struck 15:34 pm, and a bell rang out, signaling the announcement. A woman emerged with a stack of documents, congratulating the successful candidates. But before she could continue, Jones, one of the interviewees, interrupted with a dash of humor, "Yes, yes, we're thrilled to be here! Can we please skip the formalities and get to the good stuff?" The room erupted in laughter, and the woman smiled, "Very well, let's get to it!". With a warm smile, she introduced herself as the chief Secretary of World's Ears Company, her voice filled with excitement. "Let's begin with the list of our new team members," she said, her eyes sparkling. "Starting with number ten, we have Alis Mate, followed by Kelvin Carl, Loalt Vorst, Nort Walt, Elven Soteren, Grost Martin, Ella Fitzgerald, Readen Ulter, Austin Denise and last but not least, Stella Grante." The room erupted in applause as she congratulated each of them. Mr. Osber then took the stage, his presence commanding attention. He handed out envelopes with a mysterious smile, instructing them to open them at home. His words were laced with intrigue, "Many are chosen, but few are expected. What you'll read at home will surprise you. The world needs the unexpected." Stella's mind was racing, her thoughts jumbled. "What does it mean?" she wondered and was perplexed. "Will we be working like machines? Or is it something more?" She couldn't wait to unravel the mystery.
The scene shifted to the grand wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Bulker, where Mr. Richard, his wife, and their son James as they made a majestic entrance. The celebrant, Mr. Bulker Herlter, warmly acknowledged their presence It's an absolute delight to be here today!" Mr. Richard exclaimed. Bulker's face lit up with a warm smile as he replied, "The pleasure is all ours! Today marks a joyous occasion, blessed by the Mighty Lord. We celebrate with full hearts!" As they exchanged warm greetings, Bulker introduced his enchanting wife, Angeles, to Richard's family. The room was filled with the sweetness of handshakes and welcoming smiles. Angeles inquired about Clara's daughter, and Clara shared, "Her new role will bring her greater focus, just as she's always desired." Angeles' smile seemed to hide a hint of discontent, for she couldn't help but feel envious of the love and unity that radiated from Richard's family. Little did they know, Bulker's wife harbored a mysterious past. As Angeles excused herself, Bulker asked, "Where are you off to, my love?" She replied, "I need to refresh my makeup for the guests." Bulker's eyes sparkled with admiration, "You shine brighter than ever, my dear! Your beauty is captivating!" Angeles brushed it off, "I'll be even more radiant after a glance in my second eyes." Bulker's confusion was met with Angeles' quick wit, "I meant my mirror, dear!" With a gentle smile, he let her be, unaware of the secrets she concealed. As Angeles retreated to her room, she revealed her true nature. With a deep breath, she inhaled the reddish substance from the mysterious box, and her face transformed into a demonic visage before returning to normal. Her existence dated back to 1230, when demons conspired with Lord Lucifer to destroy humanity because God cast them out of Heaven, they decided to emerge among humans to destroy their lives and bring down humanity under their control. Lucifer created a book with his dark power, a book that opens the gates of hell to the human world. Angeles was Lucifer's most loyal and trusted servant. In the whispering shadows, the threshold between hell and earth was lifted, and Lucifer's emissaries descended upon the mystical realm of Maric, in the northernmost region of Mariton. Within the heart of the enchanted forest of Rarantherine, the gateway pulsed with an otherworldly energy. Angeles, Lucifer's devoted servant, was chosen to lead the mission. As they stepped through the shimmering portal, Angeles, clutching the ancient tome of hell, whispered an incantation, and the gate vanished behind them. With a graceful gesture, she commanded her companions to divide into two groups, and in an instant, they transformed - one half assuming masculine forms, the other, feminine. Their attire and countenances shifted, like leaves rustling in an autumn breeze. Angeles, now a vision of loveliness, glided forward with regal poise, her beauty leaving a trail of wonder. Her followers turned toward the path leading to Mariton, their faces aglow with an unholy light, as they embarked on their dark odyssey.
THE BIRTH OF EVIL -2-
As night descended, the day succumbed to darkness, and the clouds were adorned with beams of shadow and constellations centered by the luminescent moon. Mariton city, a melting pot of humanity, thrived with men, women, and children living in harmony and unity. As dawn's light faded from the sky, night embarked on its journey. Angeles and her legion stood poised, like soldiers ready for battle, awaiting the perfect moment to strike. At midnight, when the city slumbered deeply, Angeles whispered to her legion, "It is time." With a chorus of ominous voices, they marched into the city, their malevolent presence echoing through the streets. Angeles halted their advance, surveying the interior of Mariton, where an unsettling silence reigned. She signaled her legion to follow, and they converged upon the outskirts of the city, near the Rarantherine forest, where the inhabitants were scarce. Angeles unveiled the enchanted Book of Evil, bestowed upon her by Lucifer. As she opened its pages, Lucifer's words of dark incantations leapt forth, and she spoke the spell: "Etne Mote arnq aert dwes bout nwer qet zeft gdeo." The demons joined in unison, their voices weaving a haunting chorus. The ground trembled, and the sands swirled, coalescing into a magnificent structure - a beautiful family community with grand mansions, born from the darkness. Angeles christened the community Halolus, and with a wave of her hand, the name materialized on the gate's forehead. As the first light of dawn crept over the horizon, her legion poured through the entrance, their dark forms silhouetted against the growing brightness. Once all had settled within, Angeles vanished, only to reappear atop the highest building, where her legion could behold her with an unblinking gaze. With an air of malevolent triumph, she declared, "The city shall acknowledge our presence, yet their memories of this place shall be shrouded in eternal oblivion. We have come to claim what is rightfully ours and to execute justice in the name of our Lord Lucifer." The demons echoed her proclamation, their voices rising in a chilling, synchronized chant: "Oh Hail Lord Lucifer."
Angeles then produced the accursed tome, its pages whispering dark secrets, and invoked the spell to shroud the city's memories, ensuring that the transformation of Mariton's border would remain forever forgotten. Lucifer, the mastermind, had foreseen this moment, crafting his plan with the most potent evil and demonic knowledge, inscribed in the ancient Demonic language. This dark scripture granted Angeles access to his boundless power, allowing her to unleash hell's full fury upon the earth.
As dawn's radiance illuminated the sky, the people of Mariton stirred, oblivious to the evil that had descended upon them. Their day began with promise and hope, but unbeknownst to them, Angeles had already set her plan in motion. Her agents, disguised as merchants, infiltrated the market, peddling their wares - fruit and food items - as they wove a web of darkness, poised to ensnare the unsuspecting populace.
At the market entrance, one of the demon disguised as a stunning lady captivated many buyers, including Fredrick, a young and charming man. As he gazed at her, he exclaimed, "What a beauty!" The demon lady interrupted, saying, "More than you can ever see or imagine." Fredrick asked, "What's your name? I long to feel my heart flutter again, as it did when I first saw you." She teasingly replied, "You flatter excessively, perhaps I need genuine men in my daily life." Fredrick responded, "Men like me are rare in Mariton."
He continued to impress her with kind words, and the demonic lady, adorned in beautiful clothes and human skin, smiled with excitement. As he purchased fruits and vegetables and prepared to leave, he said, "We shall meet again at sunrise." She replied, "Minivan." Fredrick exclaimed, "What! That's your name?" She confirmed, "Yes, that's my name." Fredrick departed, and Minivan was delighted to have a man admire her beauty.
The demons, struggling to mimic human interactions, were among the people in the market, trying to sell their goods and express feelings like humans to their opposite sex. People passing through the end part of Mariton, near the border, marveled at the newly erected building and exclaimed in wonder. Even those who regularly visited Mariton for business were automatically enchanted from the border, clearing their memories of what may have been in that spot, as the evil that had erupted in the city took hold.
An old man, who had lived in Mariton for a long time, had faith as strong as rock. As he reached the border with his horse and goods, he noticed a spell of evil magic had been cast. He dismounted, placed his hands on his sides, and gazed at the border, saying, "God have mercy, what has befallen my city? We are completely overwhelmed. Wait a minute, is that a house in the desert? Oh man, what is happening here? Has my journey become years? No, no, no! This can't be happening."
He quickly went to the carriage, opened a box containing the words of God, and returned to the border. He opened the book, written in Greek mythology, and began to read. As he read the words, which meant, "Oh God of creator, have me controlled by you so I can be safe in my city, as evil has made a face on earth, and let your Angels be superior over the demons on earth, Amen." He closed the book, saying, "This means the evil prophecy has begun. I must stop it, we must." He went to his horse, took three deep breaths, and left to cross the border. With the prayer, the enchantment was unable to enchant him, and he successfully passed through the border without being corrupted by the evil spell cast on the border. The traveler rode into the community of Halolus, his horse's hooves echoing through the air. As he approached the gate, he dismounted and drew closer, marveling at its beauty. "What sorcery is this?" he wondered aloud. "This is diabolically magnificent! Does the city's authority know that this stands at Mariton's border?"
He answered himself, "No, I suppose they don't." Suddenly, his eyes turned white, and he beheld the true vision of the community. Demons revelled in hellfire, chanting hymns to Lucifer. He stumbled backward, exclaiming, "Oh my goodness, this is madness! God have mercy on our souls!"
He hastily mounted his horse and spurred it on, racing towards the city. The carriage bounced and swayed as the horse galloped, its legs pounding the ground. Through a narrow path, he hastened, the shortest route to Mariton, where multitudes dwelled.
As night fell, he ascended a hill overlooking the city. He reined in his horse and gazed down at the valley, where lights twinkled like stars. "It's beautiful, just as it's always been," he smiled. But his eyes changed again, revealing a vision of demons in human form, their presence erupting throughout the city.
His horse reared up, its front legs raised high, and let out a terrified whinny. The traveler held the reins tight, his heart racing with fear. Dread had descended upon him, and he knew he had to act.
MARITON AND DEMON -3-
He quickly rode his horse and carriage down to the city with great urgency. As he approached the city, the people of Mariton were busy with night parties and various evening engagements. One of his old friends spotted him and called out, "Whoa, whoa! Who am I seeing? Look who's back after all this time! How's it going, man?" The old man, however, seemed distant, his mind elsewhere. His friend called to him again, and the old man finally responded, "What? I didn’t catch that... Wait a minute, can you tell me what’s going on here?"
His friend laughed and said, "The usual, it seems you’re a bit lost. Or have you forgotten everything while you were away? Hahahahaha." The old man shook his head, trying to make sense of his surroundings, and said, "Seriously? Is this what you mean? I don't think so."
His friend teased him, "Old man, what’s wrong with you? Don't you recognize your city anymore? Have you forgotten your family? Perhaps you’ve forgotten your way home too! Hahaha! Don’t worry, I’ll guide you home, but it’ll cost you some coins." The old man began to laugh, and after a few seconds, his friend joined in, and they both laughed for about fifteen seconds. Suddenly, the old man shouted, "Damn it! Our city is ruined!" His voice boomed, and he glared at his friend with an angry expression.
Startled, the man fell to the ground, exclaiming, "What’s wrong with you? You scared the life out of me! I need to go!" The old man quickly apologized, "I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to. You weren't answering my question." But his friend, still frightened, ran off, leaving the old man standing there, bewildered and alone.
The old man looked around in surprise at the houses and people, but no one seemed to notice what had just happened. He muttered to himself, "What should I do now? I need to find the root of the problem before revealing the vision of demons in this city." He slowly rode home, and as he passed, people who recognized him as a great and faithful legend greeted him.
When he finally reached home, his only son, Richard, saw him approaching from afar and shouted, "Mom, Mom! Dad is back!" His mother, Anabelle, replied, "Oh really? Go meet him and welcome your father home." The young boy ran out to greet his father, who had just dismounted from his horse. Richard hugged him tightly and said, "Father, Mom and I have missed you so much."
The old man looked up and saw his wife standing at the entrance, smiling warmly at him. He walked briskly towards her, and they met halfway, embracing and kissing passionately. Their son joined them in a group hug, and after a few moments, they held hands and walked into the house together. Anabelle, his wife, and Richard, their son, were the old man's entire world.
Anabelle went into the kitchen to prepare dinner, planning to cook her husband's favorite meal in celebration of his safe return after being away for months. Meanwhile, the old man stepped out of his room and walked into the kitchen. He looked at his wife, and she turned to look at him too. "What is it?" she asked sweetly. "Do I still look beautiful and loving?" she teased.
"More than you can ever imagine," he replied, walking over to kiss her. After a brief kiss, he left the kitchen, calling out to his son, "Richard!"
"Yes, Father?" Richard answered.
"Come on, let's bring the goods in from the store," the old man instructed. Richard replied, "Okay," and ran out of his room to join his father outside. They began unloading the goods from the horse carriage, working together with Richard on the right side and his father on the left.
As they worked, the old man called his son's name, "Richard."
"Yes, Father?" Richard responded.
The old man looked at him seriously and said, "Richard, I want you to understand the meaning of your existence. Our city is filled with good and loving people."
Richard, sensing a lecture coming, interrupted, "Yes, Father, you've told me that before."
The old man nodded, "I know, but I’ve also come to realize that in every good existence, there must be bad. The sun rises for the good and the bad, and the rain falls for them too. No one knows it all. I can't even properly define our city, let alone the world. Just remember to always take good care of your mother when I'm not around, as you’ve always been good to me."
Richard, touched by his father's words, replied, "Okay, Father, I love you."
"I love you too, son," the old man responded warmly.
They finished unloading the last of the goods, and as they moved the horse and carriage to the store, they laughed and talked happily, enjoying the time together.
At dinner, Anabelle, with the help of Richard, set the table. They all sat down and prayed before beginning the meal. Anabelle took a spoonful of rice porridge mixed with sausage and fed it to her husband. Richard laughed and teased, "Dad, are you a baby? You look so old, why is Mom feeding you? It’s so crazy!"
Anabelle smiled and said, "No, honey, he’s my baby, and I love you both."
His father added playfully, "Dad is tired and his hands are weak. He needs someone to feed him so he can regain his strength." They all laughed, and Richard said, "Okay, Dad, can I feed you?"
His father smiled and replied, "Yes, honey, go ahead, help your dad regain his strength." Richard quickly took a spoonful of food and fed his father, making everyone laugh even more.
After dinner, Anabelle and her husband accompanied Richard to his room to see him off to bed. "Sweet dreams, my darling," Anabelle said as she tucked him in.
"Sweet dreams too, Mom. See you tomorrow morning," Richard replied.
His father chimed in, "You too, honey. We love you."
They turned off the lights and closed the door behind them. Then, in a playful mood, the old man scooped Anabelle up in his arms and carried her to their room. She laughed and said, "Seriously?"
She then mimicked what her husband had said during dinner, "Dad is tired and his hands are weak, so Dad needs someone to feed him to regain his strength!" They both laughed all the way to their room, where they dramatically shut the door behind them.
ANABELLE ENCOUNTER -4-
The first rays of dawn pierced the horizon, casting a warm, golden light over the fields. It was Richard’s father's first morning back home, and the air was filled with the promise of a fresh start. As he awoke, a sense of peace settled over him, different from the restless nights he had endured before. He stretched, feeling the warmth of the sun beginning to penetrate the coolness of the night that still lingered in the house.
Deciding to start the day with a task, he quietly made his way downstairs to the woodshed. The smell of earth and wood filled his senses as he approached the cupboard where the farm tools were stored. He pulled out the well-worn axe, its wooden handle smooth from years of use. The task ahead was simple—chopping firewood for the hearth—but it was more than just a chore. It was a return to routine, to the familiar rhythms of life he had missed.
He stepped outside, the morning air crisp against his skin, and began to work. The axe swung through the air with a satisfying thud as it met the wood, splitting it into neat logs. Each strike felt purposeful, grounding him further in the present moment. As he worked, he became lost in the rhythm, the physical exertion bringing a sense of clarity and calm.
Unbeknownst to him, his wife Anabelle had also risen early. She had quietly moved about the house, gathering laundry into a basket. When she heard the steady sound of the axe, she paused at the doorway, watching her husband with a soft smile. His focus, the way he moved with familiarity and strength, brought her comfort. After a moment, she stepped outside, descending the small wooden stairs, her hand lightly grazing the railing as she walked.
"Beautiful morning, my love," she called out, her voice breaking the morning silence. Her husband paused, turning to greet her with a weary smile. He stretched his arms above his head, feeling the pleasant ache in his muscles from the morning’s labor.
"Morning, darling," he replied, his voice warm despite his exhaustion. "How's your morning so far?"
"Bright and blissful," she answered, her eyes twinkling with affection. They shared a brief kiss before Anabelle moved to the clothesline, starting to hang the laundry to dry. As she worked, Richard, their son, stirred from his sleep.
Richard, still groggy, had been roused by the sound of the axe hitting the wood outside. Curious, he climbed out of bed and made his way to the door. When he opened it, he saw his father working in the yard, splitting logs with precise, powerful swings.
"Morning, Dad!" Richard called out, his voice full of youthful energy.
His father stopped mid-swing and turned to face him, a smile spreading across his face. "Morning, Richard," he replied, wiping sweat from his brow. Anabelle, now hanging the last of the laundry, also looked up and greeted her son.
"Good morning, honey. Did you sleep well?" she asked.
"Yes, Mom, I did. It’s so good to see you both again," Richard replied, his voice tinged with relief. He walked over to help his mother with the laundry, eager to be of assistance.
An hour later, the family was seated around the dining table, enjoying a simple breakfast of fresh bread, soup, and sautéed cabbage. The warmth of the meal and the comfort of each other’s company made the small kitchen feel like a haven.
"I’m going to the market after breakfast," Anabelle announced as she sipped her tea. "Richard, would you like to come with me?"
Richard looked up from his plate, torn between spending time with his mother and the desire to stay with his father. "I’d love to, Mom, but I really want to stay with Dad today. Please?" he pleaded, his eyes wide with hope.
Anabelle chuckled, shaking her head. "No, no, no, honey. It’s alright. He is your father, after all. I can’t say no to you, my sweet boy."
Richard turned to his father with a hopeful expression. "Dad, is it okay if I stay with you today?"
"Of course, my dear," his father replied, reaching out to ruffle his son’s hair. "You’re always welcome to stay with me. We’re your family, and we love you."
Richard beamed, happiness radiating from him as they continued their meal. Once breakfast was over, Anabelle began preparing to leave for the market. Her husband helped her load the goods onto the horse, securing the bundles tightly.
"Honey," he said as he adjusted the last strap, "please try to come back as soon as you’re done selling."
Anabelle paused, her brow furrowing slightly. "Why? Is something wrong? Shouldn’t I get some food supplies after selling?"
"No, nothing’s wrong," he reassured her, though there was a hint of concern in his voice. "I just want you to promise me you’ll come back as soon as you’re done."
Anabelle’s expression softened, and she smiled. "I promise, my love. I’ll come back right after I’m done. I miss you both already," she said, giving him a quick kiss before mounting her horse.
She waved goodbye to her husband and son as she rode off towards the market, her heart light despite the long day ahead. Richard and his father stood side by side, watching her until she disappeared from view.
As she vanished into the distance, Richard’s father found his thoughts drifting to darker memories. The images from the night he had returned haunted him—the visions of demons dancing and rejoicing, the eerie sight of Mariton city below, teeming with creatures disguised as humans. The memory gnawed at him, and a sudden dread filled his heart. What if one of those demons encountered Anabelle at the market?
He was so lost in his thoughts that he didn’t notice Richard calling out to him. The boy’s voice seemed distant, drowned out by the noise inside his head. It wasn’t until Richard began tugging at his arm that he snapped out of his reverie.
"Dad, what’s wrong?" Richard asked, his voice tinged with concern. "I’ve been calling you for a while. Mom’s already gone, and you’re still staring off into the distance. Are you okay? Let’s go inside and play."
His father blinked, trying to shake off the lingering unease. "What? Oh, yes… I was just… missing her," he said, rubbing his temples as if trying to erase the troubling thoughts. "She and you, you’re everything I have."
Richard’s eyes softened. "Dad, Mom’s going to be fine. I miss her too. Come on, let’s go inside. Grab my hand."
With a smile, Richard’s father took his son’s hand, but before heading inside, he playfully scooped up a handful of snow and tossed it at Richard, hitting him squarely on the chest.
"Seriously, Dad?" Richard exclaimed in mock indignation.
"Yes, seriously!" his father laughed, his mood lightening as he sprinted towards the house. Richard quickly gathered some snow, rolled it into a ball, and chased after him, both of them laughing and playing as they disappeared into the warmth of their home.
Meanwhile, Anabelle had reached the market, her heart light with the memory of her family. The market was bustling, full of people and activity. She guided her horse through the throng, heading towards her usual spot where she sold her goods. As she approached, she noticed something unusual—a woman she didn’t recognize was already set up in her spot, selling the exact same items she had brought to market.
Confused and a bit irritated, Anabelle dismounted her horse and walked over to the woman. "Excuse me, what are you doing here?" she asked, trying to keep her tone polite despite her frustration. "These goods… they’re exactly like mine. Did you plan this?"
The woman, who had been busy arranging her goods, looked up with a strange smile. "It seems you don’t know who you’re dealing with," she said in a voice that sent a chill down Anabelle’s spine. "You must be a tasty piece of meat."
The words were ominous, and as the woman stood and approached her, Anabelle felt an unease she couldn’t quite explain. The woman reached out as if to touch her, but just as her hand made contact with the cross necklace Anabelle wore, she recoiled in pain. A shriek tore from her lips as she clutched her hand, which now bore a terrible burn.
Without another word, the woman turned and fled, leaving behind her goods and a trail of shocked onlookers. Anabelle stood there, stunned, as the market crowd whispered and stared. She glanced down at her necklace, the cross glinting innocently in the morning light, and realized that something far more sinister had just occurred.
Shaken but determined, Anabelle moved to another spot, setting up her stall and continuing her day as best she could. But the memory of the woman’s scream and the burn on her hand lingered, a reminder that the world she lived in was not as simple or as safe as it seemed.
