Darkness Flickers

Chapter Two

 < Avery >

It's the peak of winter. Snow tucking the earth into a nice cool blanket. A fresh breeze constantly lingering in the air. It's quiet. Peaceful. Children squealing with excitement as they open their curtains for this stunning surprise. Excitedly throwing on their warm coats. The hat and scarf their grandma knitted them a few years back for this very rare occasion. Rushing to the door, opening it to a world full of wonders.

I keep running. I push past the fears drowning me: weighing me down. Dodging past the trees, hearing him. He's so close. I feel enclosed and trapped. Arid branches reaching out thirstily to grab me. I cry out and come crashing down onto the humid icy grass. My nails dig into the glacial earth. Steadying myself, I attempt to get up. I feel cold. So cold. This overwhelming ambience frightens me. The cruel snow nipping at me like needles.

I hadn't done anything wrong – but this never-ending game of cat and mouse seemed to finally be clawing to a finish. This game. This sick game for my own life. It's made me tired. It's made me lose control of a life that I should be living. Worst of all, it's made me an outcast.

Something snaps. I spin around and I'm met with a rock to the side of my head. My body collapses like a doll – limp and heavy. My vision flickers. I take in as much as I can from the man. I take in his dark clothing and devilish smile. A shadow casts over us, engulfing me into the black abyss.

Dark.

It's so dark. Trapped within the prison walls of my mind. Memories play back and forth – horrid harsh memories.

My eyes flicker open. Although nothing changes. The same endless darkness awaits me – right before my eyes. Lifting myself up, I feel my arms shake. My head feels heavy.

Listening closely, a faint drop of water can be heard. Its echoes bouncing off the walls continuously; introducing waves of utter confusion with my senses.

I bring my knees up towards my chest. My muscles aching unbearably. My eyes begin to focus beneath my damp hair. I couldn't quite pinpoint where this extra light was coming from. Wherever this source was, I was thankful for it. It was somewhat comforting.

Suddenly, I hear a slight mummer from across the room. Alert. I stay alert. This company wasn't invited – so instantly, they are foe. I press my sore back against the cold wall, sending slight shivers up my spine. I don't dare to breathe as my nails dig into my jeans clinging against my thighs.

The noiseless mummer appears again unexpectedly. A low quiet growl escapes my mouth. I open my mouth to confront this stranger but I'm interrupted almost instantly by the cries of what sounded like a young female.

Pain radiated off of her voice. Her wheezing made it clear she was wounded in some way. I stay ever so quiet. Letting her beg.

"Help.."