My breath catches as I continue to sprint. Trudgens are the most dangerous creatures in the forest. At least that's what my dad used to say before...Shaking that thought out of my head, I swiftly duck under a low branch and listen for the pursuit of the Trudgen. My ears catch the sound of claws scraping against rock and I know that I'm being pursued. While sprinting, I can't help but think about the beady eyes and glinting teeth that had nearly snatched me up.
A couple years ago, my dad and I had been hunting near our Cold Cabin when we heard similar scraping sounds. As soon as I heard it, I was convinced that we had found some saboni, which normally like the plants that grow on the boulders near the forest. My dad, on the other hand, freaked out and told me to run. I still remember what I said; " Are you crazy! This might be our last chance to...". I didn't get finish because out of nowhere came a massive Trudgen. Luckily, there was only one. Shuddering, I pick up the pace. I still have the scar to prove how sharp those claws can be.
Tripping over an abnormally large root, I stumble forwards and land on my stomach. The breif moment of stillness gives my ears the chance to pick up the sound of the Trudgen. My heart stops. Based on what my dad told me, Trudgens should not make that much noise unless they're in a pack. Scared out of my wits, I panic and push myself up. Letting out a scream, I sprint towards the nearest tree and haul myself up. While climbing, I feel a twinge in my left ankle. It must have twisted the wrong way when I fell. As I continue to climb, I force myself to look down. Biting my lips, I hold in another scream, apparently the Trudgens are hungry enough to wait me out. They are surrounding the tree. Eyes glowing menacingly, they growl quietly to eachother and arrange themselves in a tight circle arround my only protection. The only good thing about this situation is that Trudgens can't climb. Suddenly, I feel a wave of nasea and my vision starts to go blurry. My hands start to slip and the last thing I remember is falling before everything goes black, yet again.
I stumble as my eyes fly open. Squinting because of the bright light, I yelp preparing for glinting teeth and claws to start digging into my flesh. Instead, I'm greeted with the sweet sound of a human voice, quietly reassuring and comforting. Looking down the hall, I catch a glimpse of the same women who talked to younger me in the burning street and closed the doors at the court meeting. Confused yet relieved, I wander behind her, surprised that she is still unaware of my presence. As I catch up I notice who she is talking to. It's me...again. Slipping in beside them, I lean in closer while trying to hear what she is saying.
"It was just a nightmare Klea, you don't have to be worried. I will always protect you. Always. Why don't we go down to the kitchen? I bet Mrs. Thea has something to cheer you up!"
Younger me seems to perk up instantly at the mention of Mrs. Thea and she wipes the tears from her eyes. Curious, I continue to follow the pair down the quiet hallway. As we walk, I take in the soft lamplight that illuminates the smooth, clean walls filled with pictures of smiling families and picturesque scenes. Soft carpets muffle the sounds of our footsteps and give the corriders a royal appearance. Turning a corner, I can't help but stare at the view. A tall window displays the scene of a perfect city. Light filled towers seem to stretch towards the sky, reaching to grab one of those tiny pinpricks of light. Winding roads saunter around open shops and bridges stretch across small creeks that reflect the Moon-star's glow. I can almost hear the laughter coming from those pathways and see the smiles of the welcoming store owners. I always dreamed of the day I came here. Carsha is the largest city on our planet and is also one of the most beautiful. Shaking my head in disbelief, I walk closer to the window. The last time I saw this city was in another one of my "blackouts" but it was burning and full of screaming not laughter. Finally, I realize that younger me is almost out of sight so I hurry to catch up.
After going down a flight of stairs and three more hallways we come to a door with a sign above that reads, "Kitchen". I follow younger me and mystery lady inside and am instantly greeted with a wave of hot air and the sound of clattering dishes.
