The feeling of strong hands holding me was the first thing I realised. Second was that something covered me eyes and mouth rendering those senses useless. Third was that my wrists and bound together with rope that cut my skin and made my hands numb. Last was the sound of shouting which belonged to the people I knew as friends. Their yells blended into one phrase that was repeated over and over and over again.
"DROWN THE WITCH!"
"DROWN THE WITCH!"
"DROWN THE WITCH!"
I kicked and thrashed in the arms of supposedly one of the villagers. My screams were blocked by the gag and all that came out were fearful moans.
I did not understand what was happening. Did the townsfolk think I was a witch and are they actually stooping that low and trying to kill me in cold blood? I am no witch and even if I was I would never try to hurt anyone.
Suddenly the shouting stopped and all that was heard was my shaky gasps of breath. Then a voice called out. A voice that, to my utter horror, I recognised.
Father.
"Lilura, on behalf of your treason against mankind, you are here sentenced to death. Let the river waters carry your corrupted soul far away from this land and down into Hell where you belong. You Lilura, you're name meaning 'enchantment', your plague on our town is no more!"
The yelling started again and I felt whoever was holding me was swinging his arms. Preparing to let go.
Stop! No! I am not a witch! Please! Let me go!
I screamed until I felt my voice leave me. In a split millisecond I felt the arms release me, the rush of air and the hard, backbreaking slap of icy water. The yells become disoriented and distant as the water engulfed my body in it's chilling grasp. I tried to swim towards the surface but I couldn't do it with my hands tied behind my back. My lungs ached from lack of air and my tears mixed with river water. I could feel my white night gown floating around my legs and my brown hair brushed against my face.
My body sank to the bottom and I felt the rough sand rub agains my skin. As I felt my conscience leave me. I gave a final scream and bubbles of air were released my mouth and left for the surface. As I closed my eyes I thought.
Why are there so many unanswered questions. Why did they think I was a witch? What did I ever do to them? And why won't someone see the truth...and save me?
