The Enchanting Rapture (#1)

Chapter 33

Annika

     Soren lead them into the maze, past the lovely gardens they had strolled through before. The walls seemed to brush against the darkening sky. His hand was steady on hers, providing strength and reassurance. 

     The plush grass cushioned her feet, so stark when compared to the harsh marble floor.

     They ran with the speed of light. 

     Annika worried for Inferno and those left behind. The only comfort was the fact that she and Soren were the only true targets. 

     A cool breeze swept around, soothing the heat flooding her veins, surging to the surface of her flesh to be cooled. 

     "Prepare to fight, Annika," Soren instructed as they travelled deeper into the mass of green walls, "I need you now." 

     His choice of words encouraged her bravery to come forward, because instead of asking her to hide, he asked her to stand by his side as an equal. Soren believed she was capable of protecting herself, and for that, Annika would forever cherish his trust.

     His steps were precise and calculated. This was a route she realized he had taken millions of times. Maybe he did it for fun, but she knew it was a trail he once took to escape from Zyhed and his madness. 

     Annika was awestruck as they arrived to the center of the maze. It was a unique sight that one could only see to authentically behold.

     There was a gorgeous fountain in the middle. Made of jewels, the structure was vibrant with crystal colors. Rushing water from the core complimented the shine, giving the gems an enchanting sparkle. 

     They were surrounded by crystal sculptures. Most were crafted to resemble mystical creatures of Might Empire. If she weren't so terrified, she may have stopped to admire them. 

     "Ready?" Soren asked with a tight expression, "it won't take them long to find us." The sky thundered in response. Annika reached within herself, connecting to the paramount power dwelling in the overcast. It was warm and welcoming, eager to do her bidding. 

     "I must say, Soren," Zyhed's voice held amusement, "you do know how to pick your women. Is it her eyes? I fancy her eyes." Annika shivered at the damp evil that polluted the air, scratching the back of her throat, smothering her lungs. Evil was like black ink soaking into blank paper. So intruding, so unwanted.

     Soren took Annika's hand and kissed her knuckles. His determined expression made her smile. They could do this together. They would get through this. 

     "Poor girl, all she's got is her body, like all sluts," Malani added, in a different spot than where Zyhed's voice came from. Annika kept looking around, scanning for their location. 

     "By the way, you wouldn't happen to know where Mave is, would you? That cunt drugged me, but I am not weak like he stupidly assumed. To be rid of the poison, I bled myself out until there was almost nothing left. Was not fun, and now he is going to pay. Hell, you tell me where he is, and I promise I will lessen the torture for you, how's that sound?" Of course she would nit deprive herself of the sick entertainment, so did she really believe they would fall for her false words?

     Zyhed clapped his hands. Their steps were closer. "Sounds like a fair deal to me!" 

     Annika tightened her hold on Soren's hand. He was strong, more powerful than their enemies combined. The security he provided was all she could ask for.

     Their words went through one ear only to exit through the other. What they said meant nothing. They both deserved to die. 

     "There you two are," Zyhed exclaimed, "we were worried we would not find you!" He really was insane. There was no possible help for the mad king.