Dr. Creepen's Dungeon - S3 Ep112: Episode 112: Church Horror Stories

Episode Date: February 8, 2023

Banish Dry January with a free case of exceptional beers from my good friends at Beer52! Simply go to www.beer52.com/CREEP and cover the meager postage cost of £5.95 to claim your free case now. Today’s first phenomenal story is originally titled ‘Bloody Church’, an original work by Thomas Miller, kindly shared with me via email for the express purpose of having me exclusively narrate it here for you all. Today’s second nightmarish tale of terror is ‘The Church in the Woods’, an original work by Vngel W, shared with me via the Creepypasta Wiki and read to you all with the author’s express permission according to the conditions of the CC-BY-Sa license: https://creepypasta.fandom.com/wiki/User:Vngel_W

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We believe OCT scans are so important they're included with every standard eye exam. Book an eye exam at Spexsavers.cavers.ca.caps are provided by independent optometrists. Visit Spexsavers.cavers.com to learn more. Welcome to Dr. Creepin's dungeon. The church. The church should be our ultimate sanctuary from all things evil. If only that was so, as we shall see in tonight's two feature-length stories.

First up, we have the bloody church, that's followed by the church in the woods. Now, as ever before we begin, a word of caution. Tonight stories may contain strong language, description as a violence and horrific imagery. That sounds like your kind of thing. And let's begin. I wake slowly to the gentle pitter patter of rain,

and to pale moonlight flooding through my window. I don't have anything to do with so. I just stay in bed and relax for a while longer. Rolling over, I noticed that my husband's already out of bed, though that isn't unusual at all, especially given how distant he's been late. It's always been somewhat distant. but lately he seems to have gone all about me.

Worst of all I hardly see him anymore since he always locks himself away because of his work. Just then I tense up in fear as I hear a soft hissing whisper. Verse one, then two, and before I know it, a whole chorus joins in. It's a madman, one breathes out, getting, no, it's a shepherd.

Hist added in reply. It's hard to tell where the voices are coming from, but I can tell they aren't in the same room as me. The whispering crescendoes, and suddenly the voices seem to be administering an oath. Do you pledge yourself, your essence and your Icho, to the bloody chapel, and to Racta Pita? One voice slowly exhales.

Do you leave your current form and take on the form Racta Pita has shaped for you? Another voice hisses out rapidly. Do you leave the road you're currently on and join the blood-stained path of Racta-Pita? A third voice grounds. I do. Never in my life is such a simple reply filled me with more terror. That wasn't another mysterious voice.

That was the calm tone of my husband. I bought from the sheets and sprint out of the room to try and stop whatever is happening. I frantically run from room to room until my eyes fall upon the living room. There, bound to a chair in the centre of the room, is the limp form of my husband. I run towards him, yet stop in my tracks when I see them. Creatures that seem to be nothing more than living crimson silhouettes, the redness within them rippling and reverberating as they move, and surround my husband.

one by one they touch him placing a hand a head or one of the many limbs that they have well right on him when they withdraw there's a dark crimson mark wherever they've touched him and he's grown paler my god they're draining his blood i try to move but something stops me whether it's fear or some effect of the demonic figure surrounding my husband i don't know but my feet won't bud When my husband has no more blood to give, a tall silhouette with twisted claw-like fingers and a horribly distorted proportion appears behind him. With a swipe of its hand I hear a rope tearing and see my husband slouch forth. The creature slowly turns towards me, a darker sphere is marking where its eyes are.

Suddenly though the creature seems to be absorbed into a mirror that had been reflecting the moonlight across the room, and I am left with the corpse of the man I loved. Finding that I can move again, I stumble forward, tears streaming down my face, as I wrap my arms around his now lifeless body. Two years later, without any warning, I'm jolted awake by an unseen force. I look around at my surroundings only to be greeted by darkness. The only source of illumination in this place is a red light that pulsates every few seconds. I can't see much in this dim light, but what is visible is a damp, natural-looking structure.

The walls, which seem organic, are covered in slight indentations with no discernible pattern, rapidly alternating between deep and shallow, wide and thin, sometimes gradually, sometimes instantly. As I'm getting my bearings, a distorted whispering rings out from behind me. I leaped to my feet and search for the source of the noise, but can't see anything beyond what I've all already noticed. I begin frantically searching my surroundings, but see only the same odd indentations in the walls, and dim red light. Oh, and something moving. Something moving towards me, fast. Before I can move, the thing is upon me. It looks like a horribly disfigured man, an unnaturally wide jaw, metal, emotionless eyes and proportions that are universally horrifying. On getting

a better look at its face, I realise who it is or was. That fact alone makes his appearance more terrifying than any disfigurement could. Bends its elongated, twisted neck down, until its head is right next to mine. The thing's breath reeks of many things, but above all, the metallic tinge of blood. Drink the blood and be awoken. Suddenly, I find myself screaming in my bed, rocketing up. and launching the covers off of me. I clutch my shoulders for what feels like hours,

hugging myself and taking shaky, terrified breaths. Eventually I take out the journal I've been writing my dreams in and help this one to the Macabre array. I've been dreaming of that place for years now, ever since my John's death. Some nights are better than others. I simply lay huddled in the darkness until I wake. though the ones featuring my husband's mutilated body are becoming increasingly common.

After I finished writing my account, I glance at the photo on my nightstand, morning, remembering a time before all this, a time when my future seemed to be full of love and joy. No, I say resolutely, I can't go back no matter how much I want to. Despite my strong words, I can't tear my gaze away from the photo until I hear seven knocks coming from somewhere in my house.

They sound like someone lightly tapping on glass. There's no one in my house but me, at least no one who should be in my house. Fearful I slowly stand up before making my way outside of my room, trying to move as silently as possible. I slowly make my way to the kitchen, where I keep my phone so I can call the police. As I creep through my house, there's another sound. This time a high-pitched chattering, like noises bats make, but much louder.

After a minute, it feels like a decade, I finally reach my kitchen. I quickly grab my phone, but notice my cooking knives as I do. Should I get the police involved? I can deal with this. Compelred by this wave of suicidal bravery, I pocket my phone, grab my largest knife and begin searching my house. Join my husband tonight. The kitchen, restroom and dining room all come up clear with absolutely nothing out of place.

The only room left is a living room. Full of dread, remembering what had happened to me last time I investigated an odd noise from there. I creep to the living room. When I open the door and start to investigate the room, I almost start to laugh, realizing that I most likely just heard some sort of waking continuation of my dream. where my blood runs cold and I see it in the mirror. The same mirror I've kept covered for two whole years. In the tall mirror is the red silhouette of the monstrosity from my dream,

standing behind me. Moves a distorted limb towards me and I see what looks like fleshy branches jutting out of it. Suddenly the silhouette begins to fill in, revealing a face covered in ripped, and tears, each of which resembles a small, horrific mouth. They all curl upwards into cruel grins as it draws near. Ignoring the terror welling up inside me,

I tightly clutched my knife in my hand and swing around ready to strike the creature behind me, bearing my knife and screaming. But there's nothing there. Suddenly the mirror behind me shatters, with a disgusting sloshing accompanying the brake. The last thing I remember is feeling the glass shards launch into my back and arms before going unconscious. Opening my eyes to shards of glass and my own blood, I quickly rise to my feet,

wincing from the burning sting of the cuts, riddling my limbs. As soon as I've gathered my wits, I bolt towards my front door, leaving my now bloody knife behind in my panic. I don't care where I go, so long as it isn't there. As I'm running, I notice that streaks of blood have appeared throughout my home, marking the floor walls, and even the ceiling with long, thin streaks of bright scarlet blood. Bursting into the cold night air brings a brief relief. I'm no longer inside there with God knows what, but now I'm outside with no protection. This is made much worse by how secluded my house is.

I suddenly realise that if something happened to me, it would be done. days, if not longer before anyone noticed something was wrong. This creeping dread makes me wonder if I should call the police. On the one hand, who knows how all this blood got into my house and what that creature even was, though. On the other hand, I'd look very suspicious calling in about blood that mysteriously appeared, especially after the investigation. Upon hearing something behind me and whirling around to see that blood had started dripping down the window closest to where I'm standing. Drawing my phone from my pocket,

I quickly dialed 911 and greeted with a calming. 911 operator, what is your emergency? There's something is in my house. It's left blood everywhere. I shakily force out. The operator quickly responds with a calm set of questions. Where are you? And what's your name?

I shakily provide my answers and receive a don't hang up. Help is on the way. You should find a place you can hide until they arrive. Eating this advice, I dart towards the thin woods near my house. Laying down in a patchy bush, I began to dread what this may lead to. Not only as the creature that's haunted my sleep entered the real world, but the police are also getting involved, which worries me more than it relieves me, given my history with them. Within minutes, three officers arrive, though. I can't help but notice that only two were in uniform.

The third is a tired, tall, hooking man with apathetic eyes and slouching shoulders, who I assumed to be a plain-closed detective. Finally, hanging up on the 911 operator, I approached the officers from my hiding spot with my hands raised, showing that I don't have anything in them. Immediately I'm led to a more well-lit area near one of the PF cars, and get barrage with questions. Did you hear anything?

Where were you when you noticed this? Has anything like this happened before? And all manner of other questions. Thinking it would be best if I don't mention the creature and how I prowl through my house with a knife, I leave those details out of my answer. I'm too shaken up to think through my news story, though, and the officers seem to be able to tell I'm leaving some details out. From over the officer's shoulder, I can see the detective searching through my room. Through my blood-splattered window I see him pick up my dream journal and thorn through it, reading with increasing intensity.

Eventually he sighs and hands it to another officer before leaving my field of view. Ma'am, hello? The officer that had been questioning me says, sounding concerned. Are you okay? You, um, completely blanked out there. It looks concerned, but there's something else too.

Suspicion. And that's when it hits me. He thinks I did this. Years ago when my husband died, some idiot journalist decided to propose that I had killed him, without any proof, of course. Still enough to destroy my reputation, I can get the police involved, though. They did an investigation.

Well, they never found enough to bring me to court. Many still believe that I killed him. Suddenly the detective I saw with my journal darts from the front door, and starts heading straight towards me. Before I or the officer even have a chance to respond, he sternly informs me that. You are under arrest for the murder of your husband. You have the right to remain silent.

Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right... As he's saying all this, I go numb with shock. I hesitated to call the police, but I didn't really think that something like this would happen. Brought back to my senses by the clicking. of handcuffs being closed around my wrists. You can't do this, I cry out.

I've already had to go through enough thanks to your investigation. You can't just do it again. My cries fall on deaf ears, however, as I'm loaded into one of the squad cars and driven all. My trial was vague and unorthodox. The contents of my dream journal were examined in minute detail,

teasing the specifics of each sentence apart, and although the charges formally brought against me was the murder of my husband. He was hardly brought up. When it was all over, I ended up here, alone in the padded room with nothing but my thoughts, and the constant pitter-patter of Audley's bustling through room to room in this madhouse. The doctors had me on something called Trazodone that's all but stopped my dreams, and put me in therapy with Dr. Tudor, a serious yet kind man who sift through the contents of my journal page by page, trying to find out why my dreams began. He seems to care about my recovery, though. It's probably just an act. I'm interrupted

from my thoughts when my cell door swings open and an orderly step through. Mr. Tudor has scheduled a therapy session today. Let's get you over there. She says in a kind yet pitying voice. I'm sick of the pity in people's voices, the unceasingly demeaning quality of the orderly's turns might actually be driving me mad. Sying, I pick myself up and begin walking in front of the orderly on the way to Tudor's room. Despite my incarceration here, I'm not insane. At least I don't think I'm insane. The orderlies don't treat me with the same caution they treat other patients, at least, yet they also don't think I'm quite sane either. They give me my Trazadone despite my protests and keep a watchful eye on me.

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This is the place now. I want to trust you to let yourself in, okay? The orderly jokes. Acting as though being allowed to open a door on my own is a special privilege. Despite my annoyance, I control myself. and smile back before slowly opening the door and stepping into Tudor's office. I'm greeted by the same slightly decrepit room I always have. The stained and threadbare rug, old ragged wooden desk and an iron barred window

are exactly as they always are. And I can only assume Tudor will be as unhelpful as he always is. The window overlooks the front of the asylum, and to the right of the window is a vast key rack, with keys for every wing and very likely every room, of the assignment. Please, take a seat, due to calmness. I believe today we can cut to the heart of why you're here.

Nervously, I take a seat, wondering what exactly he's talking about. According to your file, you suffer from delusions and hallucinations that compelled you to kill your husband, though in an initial investigation found insufficient evidence to bring you to court. Well, new evidence did prompt a trial, which ended in a guilty verdict.

He slowly states, as my blood begins to boil. Now normally, I would never bring up an event like this to my patients. However, you've shown remarkable recovery during your time here. Tudor hesitates. I think it may be beneficial to go over what happened. Clenching and releasing my right fist, I force out and, of course,

knowing that this will be just like my trial where others tell me what I'm thinking and why I'm thinking it well ignoring any arguments I offer first I must ask do you think he killed him well there's no harm in confessing here you've already been convicted Tudor inquires that in my emotions finally get the better of me I reply with an angry of course not I would never do something like that He'd saying I'd try to tie up my husband and bleed him to death. I'm not saying anything, comes a cold reply. The court is, if you can't talk about this, I'll simply drop the subject, but it will reflect poorly on your recovery. Taking a deep breath, I force a calm turn, and tell him that we can keep discussing this if he thinks it would be beneficial.

Ah, excellent, he replies. Now I want to make one. thing as clear as possible your husband John's death was not a suicide as you seem to believe his only wounds were slit risks yet he'd been drained of all his blood not only that but the coroner found evidence that he'd been bound at the arms and the time of death every session is like this him repeatedly telling me I'm insane even though I've done nothing abnormal since arriving here the more he says it loudly more I'm starting to believe it.

It can't really be possible that demonic creatures emerge from a mirror and heard my husband, can it? I still refuse to believe that I killed him, though. It can't have been me, and just can't. I begin to lose track of Tudor's lecturing when a single phrase catches my attention. If we can manage to maintain your current progress, it is possible, likely even, you'll be able to be released, perhaps even by the end of the year. I'm shocked. I might be released.

Before I can ask for specifics, or even how that can be possible, given what I was charged with, the clock strikes the hour, bringing our session to a close. That'll be all for today, Miss Wilson. Please follow the orderly batch of room. Following the orderly,

I once again begin to question, if I truly am insane. At the same time, though, my house was covered in blood the night I was arrested. There must be some true. truth to what I've seen then. There's no way that something like that could happen with no outside force. Not to mention how sudden all of this was. Up until John died nothing like this had ever happened. The night after that I began having horrific nightmares for two whole years, though.

Glancing to the right, I see something that makes my blood run cold. Through a window in the door of another patient's room, I managed to catch a glimpse of it. The patient has written that cursed phrase, Drink the blood and be awoken, on virtually every surface in his room. It's written in a blackish red liquid, and he's curled up and trembling in the middle of the room. But just a moment I could swear there were tendrils coming from him.

Within the blink of an eye, they're gone, though, and I speed up to get as far away from him as I can. Back in my room, my mind is racing, questions. Two people can't really have the same delusions, can they? It shouldn't be possible that my hallucinations and my dreams have also been seen by him. I was beginning to believe that I was insane, but if another person is seeing the exact same things, then it can't be a hallucination. But that would mean that everything I've seen is real, and my husband is alive? I need to know the truth. I'm going to start trying to over it.

avoid taking my medication whenever I can. I've heard whispers among the more lucid patients about ways to dodge their medication. I need to begin having my dreams again. It's the only way to find out what's going on here and discover what happened to my husband. I've been successfully avoiding my medication for several weeks now and the dreams have been slowly returning.

I still haven't seen the creature. Well, my husband, I can't help but think it's only a matter of time before he appears, though, and I don't know what will happen when he does. I've seen more of the structure from my dreams, now that I'm willing to explore the system of never-ending organic caves. I've seen creatures and hieroglyphic-light ruins carved into what I can only assume to be massive bones. Slowly closing my eyes, I drift off into sleep. When I open them, I'm greeted with what looks to be a living church, lit by the same pulsating red glow from my other

dreams. Before I know what I'm doing I begin walking down a chapel aisle, pews of writhing flesh and cartilage on either side of me. There's a bone altar at the end of the aisle, covered in a flowering red cloth that seems to be sculpted from blood itself. Seeing this, I gradually begin trembling as I approach the altar. Out of curiosity, I take a closer look at the cloth. A recoil as I realise that the cloth is a network of thousands of interwoven capillaries coming out of the centre of the altar. Scarlet blood still sings through the veins, and they pulsate along with the familiar red light. Above the altar is a massive mirror, its surfish tinge red and a fibrous black growth binding it to the wall like a tube. I lean in further when I begin to see something

through it. This can just be a coincidence. An angry voice yells through the mirror, causing ripples in its surface. The ripples gradually seem to take form, and two blurry human outlines and a vague room appear in the mirror. You expect me to believe that dozens of patients

have the exact same hallucinations. Do you honestly think I'm dumb enough to just chalk all this up to random chance? I could see one of the blurry figures lean in towards the other, and even through his distorted form, I can see the anger he's feeling. Looking around the figure's murky surroundings, I noticed the familiarity of their environment. The patchy carpet, a cluttered desk, and an iron-barred window. This is Tudor's office.

Then that means that one of the figures is probably... Yeah, not just that. Even when they're completely recovered, you forced me to hold them here. Judah yells at the other figure, startling me from my thoughts. What the hell are you even doing this for anyway? None of you have anything to gain from holding them here. As Tudor finishes, his tirade, the other figure finally begins to stir. We provide your funding.

That should be all the reason you need not to question us, but since you demand more, the figure suddenly hesitates, looking quickly around the room. Oh, cover that mirror. He says in a hushed frenzy tone. Sying, Chudor's figure approaches the mirror, coat in hand, before the figures and scenery suddenly vanish,

leaving nothing but my own reflection. Figuring that that's all the mirror will show me, I attempt to leave the altar and investigate the rest of the church, but find that I can't move my feet. Looking down, I realise that a black growth, just like the one around the mirror, has enveloped them,

and suddenly the mirror begins to ripple like water, slowly changing from my reflection to a new face entirely. The thing, my husband, stares through the mirror at me, bearing a grotesque and mutilated grin. This time it's far more than a silhouette or a blurry figure, and I can see every minute detail. All proportions are off, with massive shoulders and long skeletal limbs

and fingers that are little more. than mere bones. Protrusions that resemble tree branches, yet made of a sickly yellow flesh, grow from it. The same protrusions I saw on the man in the asylum. Again it intones the same thing it did

on that fateful night. Drink the blood and be awoken. This time it's different, though. I don't know why, but the words provoke just as much fascination as terror. That fascination soon vanishes, though, as the black roots holding my feet in place turned bright skylight,

and I feel a searing hot pain surged through my veins. I awake in tears. I can feel it, the burning hot ichter from the church, pulsing through my veins. It hurts so much. I need to get it out as quickly as possible. They don't allow anything even remotely sharp in my room, even if I am recovering, but I can't take my teeth.

I slowly sink my two incisors into the soft webbing between my thumb and forefinger, wincing as they slowly sink further and further, first bruising and then cutting. My upper teeth make it through the first, and I feel warm, crimson blood flowing onto them. Soon I have the flap of flesh off entirely, and spit it out before sucking on the wound, trying to get the icor out of my veins. ounce after ounce I await my relief until suddenly the metallic taste of my own blood is replaced with something else entirely

something indescribable that I can't help but drink against my better judgment with every drop I swallow my senses sharpened and my comprehension broadens this must have been what John was telling me about drink the blood and be awoken as suddenly as it had all started

it's over, and I'm left with nothing by my own metallic blood. I stopped sucking the wound and wince as the sickening pain spreads down my arm. I should be glad. The pain from my hand is nothing compared to what I was feeling with that in my veins, but while drinking it, everything was so much clearer. I began to understand what's been happening to me. I still only know fragments, but it's still more than enough to boost the fascination I was beginning to feel. to extreme heights. The dreams let me see it.

Racta Pita. The being my husband must have been worshipping when he died. I don't know how or why, but when I'm sleeping, it's as if I'm inside of it. Settling into bed in the hopes of revisiting Racta Pita tonight, I realize that the God and the church are one singular being. I'm kept in a straight jacket when not under supervision now.

I'm still able to dodge my medication. My dreams have become far more lucid, however. I dreamt of a macabre creature, something I could become if I pay the tithes the church demands of me. Something similar yet different than my husband, being with rough, leathery skin, membranous bat-like wings, skeletal fingers, and silver-reflective orbs in the place of eyes.

Something powerful and ageless. I've already begun the transformation through my dreams and through drinking, Rakhda Peter's Ichor, but the trials will only become harder from here. I can't go further while trapped in this sterile hell. I've begun planning my escape, but I still don't know how I'm going to do it yet. Tud has a key rack with all the asylum's keys in his therapy room,

but I'm almost certain that even if I could get one, he'd notice it was missing before I didn't have a chance to use it. I'll also need some sort of weapon, which is obviously difficult. given I'm not even trusted to have my arms unbound anymore. For now, however, I simply contemplate my dreams. While they're still largely bizarre, macabre patterns have begun to emerge. The church is organic, but almost completely static as well,

with almost nothing moving in the mirrors which I've begun to see more and more of, being the only consistently changing feature. The mirrors are always held in place by odd growths, and have a red surface that ripples and reverberates as though it were a fluid. Sometimes they show scenes from everyday life, like a family having dinner or someone getting themselves ready for an event. Other times, however, they show bizarre and macabre things. A man tormented by the light of his deceased father's soul,

a paranormal circus full of eyeless performers, or a woman peeling a skin off to reveal her true face to several horrified onlookers, these have all appeared in the church's array of mirrors. The most interesting feature of my dreams is the creatures that have begun to show up more and more frequently, possibly as a result of drinking the Ikel. They've been tall and lanky with long, razor-sharp talons, immensely large and impossibly deep jaws and metallic silver eyes with moonlight reverberating within them. I've seen them ripping the walls away at the church and shoveling endless,

amounts of flesh into their gaping mauls. I don't know if they're attacking the church, or if this is just some kind of bizarre ritual. Suddenly, I'm jolted from my thoughts by a noise from the door. Ranshton comes an orderly's tired voice. A somewhat difficult task due to the straitjacket, before shambling to the door. The door opens, and the orderly helps me out of my restraints

before I join a long line of fellow patients. Slowly we've been making our way to the cafeteria. When we get to the cafeteria, I go through my usual routine of getting and choking down the food they serve. Ever since I've discovered my taste for blood, everything they've served here has tasted like ash. Once I finally forced it all down, I begin to plan my escape again. I'm going to need some sort of weapon if I want to escape, but I just don't know where I could get one. If I can get my hands on a knife and the key for my ward, then I should be able to escape at night,

when the number of orderlies is practically a skeleton crew, unlike now when the cafeteria's fire exit has several orderlies surrounding it. I stop my planning when I look up and see the man who had written the church's message, Drink the blood and be awoken in his room. He is extremely pale and thin as a rail, and has shaggy hair that casts a dark shadow over his eyes, which dart around the room fearfully. He gets his food, limping to the most remote location he can find to eat.

Deciding that I might be able to learn something from him, they slowly rise to my feet and make my way over to him. An orderly shifts his gaze onto me, but makes no move to stop me as I inch ever closer to the fearful man. When he sees my approach, he begins to shrink away from me, and his eyes stop darting around the room and lock onto mine alone. I sit down next to him and ask, What can you tell me about the church?

Which prompts a shudder, but not an answer. What can you tell me about the church? I ask once again, more forcefully this time. I don't know anything about that, that thing. The poor man quietly stutters out. He stares at me faithfully and looks like he hasn't even blinked since he saw me. Feeling a completely new and full. foreign hatred spread through me, I slowly lean in towards him and whisper,

"'Based on what you wrote in your room, I'd say you do.' The poor man begins to shake, he can't muster up any pity for him. I know that we aren't like them anymore, like, well, like them people. He slowly turns away from me for the first time since he saw me, as though he couldn't stand looking at me any longer. It's your eyes. Faines underneath them are practically barging. You haven't even blink once since I saw you walking over here.

That's surprising to say the least. Without realizing it, I reach a hand up to rub my eyes, only for it to encounter a dry and ridge surface and for migraine-like pain to shoot through me. I'm changing faster than I'd realized. I need to escape. Looking over the cafeteria, I notice an unattended knife just within the open kitchen.

Realizing that I won't get a better opportunity than this, I decide to try and get it, though with all the orderly's present, it won't be easy. As I'm getting up to get the knife, I can't help but ask the man one last question. You've said we aren't human anymore. What are we?

Turn him to face me, he opens his mouth to speak, before his eyes open wide, and he begins screaming, pointing at me and shrieking about my metal eyes. An orderly eventually holds him off, but his screaming agitated enough patience that lunch ends early today, and a dozen orderlies are called in to send everyone,

including me, back to our rooms. If there was any chance of me being released, it probably died as soon as he began screaming. My meeting with Tudor is tomorrow, based on this incident, and the figure in my dream ordering him not to remember. release patients. I'm guessing that I'll have to rely on my plan to escape rather than illegal release. As I'm waiting in my room from my appointment with Tudor, I begin slowly blinking,

or at least trying to. As my eyelids close on my dry rough eyes, a piercing pain shoot through my skull, as I'm sliding my eyelids over sandpaper. Any minute now an orderly will escort me to Tudor's office where I can start my plan to escape by stealing the key to my ward, the he keeps him there. It's odd to look forward to another therapy session, but fortunately this may just be the last one I have to go through.

Just on time I hear the slow plodding of an orderly's feet approaching my door. Next comes the slight clinking of a ring of keys, and after what feels like in eternity the door finally opens, revealing a tired-looking Audley, tucking away a deep red key.

Time for your appointment! He states a completely flat toned before helping me out of the straitjacket and escorting me to Tudor's office. On the way there I see the fearful man from the cafeteria being transported on a stretcher, a cloth strapped to his body, covering everything but his face. His eyes are wide and unmoving, and for a moment I think he's dead. I'm proven wrong, however, when I noticed something writhing under the canvas over him. The Orteleys are heading in the direction of the solitary ward,

where patients too dangerous for uncontrolled interaction are sent. Averting my eyes from the man, I quickly arrive at Tudor's office. All I must do is grab one key off the key rack, and I'll be one step closer to freedom. As I walk in, Tudor quietly tells me to take a seat, rather than his usual warm greeting. Once I'm seated, Tudor launches into yet another lecture, albeit with far more hesitation and an almost fearful tone.

I nod and contribute the occasional platitude whenever I feel I must, but for the most part I try and think of a way to distract him. As my eyes fall on a large bookshelf, stocked with encyclopedias on medical and psychological knowledge, I have an idea. Excuse me, Dr. Tudor. I gently interrupt, trying my best to put on the meekest voice I can manage. Yes, what is it?

Tudor replies, seeming very tense. The way he's looking at me almost makes it seem as though he's afraid of me and wants me gone. You see, sir, I say, fidgeting my fingers. You put me on a medication to help me avoid dreaming. Trezodone, right? Judah only mumbled something in agreement. Well, lately I've begun having the same dreams again, so I was wondering if there was a stronger form of Trazadone I could take.

Tudor sits back and seems to ease up as he contemplates my question. After some thought he gets up and moves towards the bookshelf with a curt, I might have what you need. This is my chance. As quickly as I can, I steal over to the rack where Tudor keeps his keys. The sound of Tudor working through his book to the section he needs sends a nervous sweat down my face, since he could turn round at any moment. I frantically look through the keys,

searching for the dark red one that unlocks my ward. Suddenly I noticed an empty hook and realize that my ward's key is gone, likely stashed somewhere by Tudor in case something like this ever happened. Just then Tudor turns back to me and in a nervous tone. Why are you standing? Are you looking for someone? Looking for something?

Well, caught off guard all I can come up with to reply is it bland? It's nothing. Just then, when I'm fully paying attention to Tudor for the first time all day, I noticed the dark red key hanging from a key ring at his waist. How the hell am I supposed to get it from that? Hiding my newfound frustration, I calmly sit back down and resume listening to Tudor's lecture, all the while trying to figure out some way to grab the key off him to no avail. I may have to spend longer in this prison than I'd hoped.

God, the changes can't be delayed, though. The time it rings bringing the session to an inn. Despite normally being very punctual, Judas stalls today. There's one thing you need to know before you leave today, Judah says, hesitating every few words. You've been know what happened in the cafeteria and some are enlightening conversations

with the asylum sponsors, I'm afraid you'll be moved to the solitary ward tomorrow. I'm completely stunned. I expected not to get released or get another level of restraint, but not to be moved to the solitary ward. I need to escape tonight, but I have neither of the two things I need. Anyway, Tudor interrupts my thoughts.

That'll be all. I silently exit, Tudor's office, walking back to my room with the orderly that led me there. As we approach my room, I noticed the king, and noticed the ring of keys on him, and realize how dumb I've been. The orderlies in my ward have the same key Tudor has, so I can steal it from one of them rather than from Tudor. If I had a knife, it would be relatively easy, but since the fearful man's breakdown made that impossible, I don't know what I'm going to do. What I do know, I do know. is that whenever I attempt I must attempt it tonight or I may never make it out of it.

At this point there's only one way I could escape. I'll have to kill or at least subdue an orderly so that I can steal their key and break out. I can probably trick an orderly into coming into my room by making them think there's an emergency or that I'm in horrible pain. Even though it might be my only chance of escape, I'm still queasy at the thought of taking her life. wait what am i thinking immortality power and the chance to join my husband once again are all within my reach why would one life life i know and care nothing about be worth sacrificing all of that i'll take an orderly by surprise once they're in my room alone and i'll finally be able to escape my protrosal at least what i've been able to see or hear are nearly non-existent here and any orderlies in my way will fall just as easily as the first. Some tiny part of my mind is horrified with these thoughts,

yet a far larger part of me can't wait for what's about to come. I still don't have a weapon, though. I could try and use my bare hands, but that's far more of a gamble, and if this goes wrong, I'll probably be here for the rest of my life. Could the church help me? When I get back to my room, I close to my room. my eyes, trying to have one last dream before I have to start my escape, desperately hoping that I'll get something or anything from it. Eventually I finally feel myself begin to drift on.

When I open my eyes, I'm back with a racked up it. This time I'm in a long, tall hallway, made of sculpted flesh and supported with arches of bone. Donning the walls at random intervals are hundreds of the same mirrors I've been seeing, each showing. some unnatural scene. Some show miracles, some show tragedies, but they all contain a paranormal feats. On one particularly large mirror, a bizarre man appears to resurrect a corpse before a rapturous audience. Even with my new mindset, these sights horrify me. Why are they doing this? Why are any of these killings necessary? At that moment I see a mirror that shows me. struggling with an orderly, trying to overpower them and steal their key.

I watch in horror as the orderly manages to restrain me, and I move to solitary almost immediately. Suddenly the mirror changes, showing a figure that looks like me, but is far too old. They're strapped to a hospital bed, comatose. That can't be me, can it? Does this mean that if I don't escape tonight I'll end up trapped here, trapped in this sterile hell for the rest of my life? No, I won't let that happen, I just won't. Curling my hand into a fist, in my anger,

before I know what I'm doing, I smash it into the mirror in my rage. Despite its fluid appearance, it shatters into dozens of fragments. The pain from my fist being pierced by several of these fragments is sobering enough that my fury is quickly replaced by a lingering malice. I won't let what the mirror shows. happen. I'll do anything to escape, no matter what I need to do. This will be the last night I spend in this asylum. Just then, I noticed movement among the mirror's fragments. I bent down to look at what's happening when I notice that they're still showing scenes. They aren't the same

one I saw, however. Each shard is different. Some show me dying in my escape attempt. Some show me escaping into the night, and others show me never waking up from my current sleep. The largest fragment shows my struggle against the orderly, the original mirror showed. This time, however, I do have a weapon,

a jagged red and black glass shard. And suddenly, I realize what I have to do. I scrambled to pick up the shop. As soon as my hand closes around it, my eyes open, I'm back inside my dark asylum room. everything is normal with one exception the glass shard i grabbed in my dream is still within my palm now carefully gripped so it doesn't cut me

i quickly set my attention to luring an orderly to me curling into a ball and loudly complaining about the pain in my torso i'm groaning that my insides are burning and i make sure all those near my room know with any luck a kind orderly will stumble by and not be able to resist give me a helping hand and when he does i'll be as good as free just then i hear a jingling coming from the other side of my door and a wide grin spreads over my face. Finally, my grin is replaced with an expression of agony as soon as the door begins to open them. The female orderly rushes over to where I lie and quickly asks, what happened? Concern clearing her voice. Oh my torso, I can't breathe.

I force out between breaths. The jacket's too tight, can't breathe. And from the look on her face, I can already tell I have a right where I will. want her. Okay, hold still, I'm going to loosen it for you. As she says this, she bends down and starts pulling at the straps, holding my straitjacket, a very comfortable type. As soon as one strap is loosened, now, to a dangerous degree,

I squirm, trying to keep the prongs sealing back into the fabric, keeping the straps in a state where they can be moved. Once all the straps are loosened, I quickly and violently stand and spread out as much as I can. knocking the orderly over me down and breaking free of the straitjacket. What are you... Is all the orderly can get out before the rippling shard has found a home in her chest. She lets out a gurgling cry,

blood beginning to seep from her mouth before she goes limp. Seeing the off white of her uniform gradually turned to crimson red and the thickening stream of blood flow from her lips, I feel a hunger Awaken inside of me Licking my lips I bend down Until my face is level

With hers She really was quite beautiful Wasn't she Leaning in even closer I begin to lap At the blood Coming from her mouth Tentatively at first

But gaining impassionate intensity The still warm fluid Thrilling me The more I drink The more I drink The greater my thirst Becomes Until I withdraw the shart from her

chest and make a small nick in her neck. As soon as I've made it, I latched my mouth on and began dutifully sucking the blood from her. Just like when I drank, Ractor Peters Ico, my sense is sharpened, far more this time. The darkness of my room is slowly illuminated, and tiny details I once would have overlooked are highlighted in my new detail. The more I drink, the greater my sight becomes, until the blood runs dry and my vision levels out. Suddenly my eyes begin burning with a dull, dry pain, which only gets worse the longer it goes on.

Eventually I reach a hand up to rub them, and when I do the dry, ridged surface comes off, with quite a ripping sound and a searing pain that leaves me staggering. Looking down, I see the skin off my eyes lying on the ground. Wait, how could I see that? Reaching up I lightly tap my eye, receiving a metallic ping in response. A massive grin contorts my features. I've taken yet another step towards the church.

The other things can't be far off now. Soon I'll be exactly what the church showed me I would become. Realising that my one opportunity to escape is passing me by and I quickly creep out of the room and towards the exit. creeping through the halls I slowly make my way to the cafeteria because of its emergency exit thanks to my heightened senses

I can hear orderlies hallways away and avoid them before they're even within the earshot once I've made it to the cafeteria I deftly move towards the exit noticing an alarm wired to the door I reached my shut up and cut through the wires in one quick motion deftly severing them

I immediately pushed the door open, receiving a blast of cold night air. As it washes over me, so too does the realization that I am finally free. Taking my first steps through the door, I turn my eyes up to the moon, and immediately let out a cry as moonlight fills my eyes. Stumbling forward, I stopped to figure out what had happened. Who's there? soon rings out from behind me though I realise my cry must have drawn attention

breaking into a blind sprint I run away from the orderly's voice although with no idea what I'm running towards as I'm running I hear alarms start to sound out from the asylum these noises only drive me to move faster although without my sight I'm struggling to move without tripping and falling

just when I think all is lost I begin to regain my sight. I see a wooded area near the asylum, and without hesitation, make a run for it. Moving into the trees, I sprint haphazardly, listening in fear to the sound of orderly shouting as they search the asylum and its surroundings, making their way further and further from it. As my vision further returns, I run faster and quieter. Eventually I come to a shallow gorge full of tall grass, too thick for any ordinary, eyes to see through. Deciding that hiding here is a risk worth taking, I hitch my way down into the grasses, laying down in the middle of it, making every possible effort to remain silent. After what feels like hours, several beams of light sweep the area, and I watch as several police officers

search through the woods. They slowly make their way around where I'm lying, being as thorough in their search as possible. One slowly approach. which is my hiding place, and I stifle a gasp, as I realise it's the same detective from the night I was arrested. He's staring right at me, straining to hear even the slightest of sounds, as I hold my breath. After what feels like another lifetime,

he slowly turns away and makes his way further into the forest, accompanied by the other officers. I still lay there, but still and as silent as I can. till the sun finally appears on the horizon. Emerging from the grasses, eyes sealed shut to protect them from the sun. I grin in triumph. I escaped.

I finally escape. I'm far from finished though and remaining out of the asylum will be far harder than getting out of it, but for the moment I simply relish my newfound freedom. Now that I'm free, I can continue down Racta Pitu. path. Soon I'll understand it all and transform into something far greater than what I am now. Soon, I'll join Racta Pita. Hey Ontario, come on down to BetMGM Casino and check out our newest exclusive. The Price's Right Fortune Pick. Don't miss out. Play exciting casino games based on the iconic game show.

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It wasn't like your normal everyday dream. It was very disturbing to me. I wouldn't consider it a nightmare, but I know I will never forget it. It still brings a shiver just thinking about it. before the dream everything was normal saturday had arrived after a long tiring week of work i was an i t technician this kind of job where we would assist customers varying from software issues to networking ones occasionally the job would require us to meet them on their turf to provide on-site service unfortunately for me i wore multiple hats which meant i had to tackle most on-site visits some would think of

of me as a versatile, irreplaceable employee, and he wouldn't be wrong. I, however, couldn't look past the glaring fact that the company was just being too cheap to hire others, opting to milk every ounce they could get from us, their understaffed employees. You can see why I'd spend most of my weekends only sleeping or watching television, basically anything that required the least amount of work or movement. Unfortunately, these tactics made them fly by fast. than usual. There's nothing worse than expediting your rest days to your work once. This weekend I decided to mix it up a bit. Instead of my usual lazy days around my apartment, I decided to venture out and visit my parents. I hadn't been home in two years and I couldn't remember the last phone call I'd made

to them. So I figured I was overdue for a visit. Home was around 50 miles away, but that didn't seemed too bad compared to most people I knew. I had plenty of friends who were clear across the country from their folks, so I know I had no room to complain. To be honest, I was looking forward to the drive. The ones in the morning were the best, watching the sun gradually rise, feeling the cool breeze while coasting the near empty streets, absent a river of traffic. Was there a better time to travel? I couldn't wait to see my dad or my step-mom either. I could already picture the two of them ambushing me with hugs while releasing a barrage of questions about how everything was going in my life, and I haven't even got to the best part. Home-cooked meals.

Enagised by these thoughts, I quickly packed up a few things, toothbrush, clothes for one night, towels, and anything else I thought I might need. For a second I thought about giving them a quick heads-up call to let them know I was coming, but refrained, thinking it would be better if my visit was on and announced. After my car was loaded, I pulled out my apartment area and began the drive. As expected, the sun had barely peaked beyond the horizon. The drive itself was smooth and fluent, with barely any other cars on the road, just the way I liked it. As early as it might have seemed to some people, my parents were early birds. They got up at the crack of dawn to maximize their day, taking care of small things throughout it, cutting grass, morning rice, morning runs errands and so on it didn't take me long before i reached my old hometown i was met with the familiar setting rendering old memories

almost at every angle i could recall some event from my life while growing up wasn't until i looked in the rear mirror that i noticed i had a smile pressed on my face there was no hiding it i guess when it was happy to be home eventually i reached my neighborhood turning on to the street where my parents lived From the distance, I could see their house at the far end to the right. I drove down the street, glancing left and right, attempting to see if old neighbours were still present at their homes. Just from a glance, I could recognise what houses had new people and which ones had familiar faces. Only a few were actually up and outside. One person in particular was Mr. Harris.

Oh, he was infamous for always attending his yard. He was mainly seen cutting his grass and did so in a full jumpsuit. regardless of how hot or cold the weather shifted. Vaguely resembled the ones prisoners would wear, except it was navy blue instead of bright orange. I reached my parents' house and park next to the mailbox. The driveway had my dad's car in it. My stepmother's car was usually kept inside the garage

since it was a newer vehicle. The house itself was fairly big. It was two stories with all white siding that made up its exterior. It had burgundy shutters to accompany each window and a decent-sized porch with a bench on it. After parking my car and walking up to the door, I could already see the screen door closed to allow the cool air to run through.

The aroma of bacon and eggs filtered outward along with the sounds of talking and moving around. Despite still having a key to the place, I rang the doorbell. Instantly I heard my dad's voice grumpily question out loud who would be visiting at this hour. I could hear his footsteps walking over until he emerged into the entrance hallway.

I could see his eyes widen and a smile grow on his face. He called out for my stepmother to come over to him. When she did, I was met with a loud cry of joy as she raised over to the door, opening it and pulling me into a vice-grip hug. After about a ten-minute moment of hugs and greetings, I was finally able to settle in. I put all my stuff into my odd room, which was in the basement. The basement, of course, was finished and had a bit of

big television in front of a couch along with the washer and dryer down there. It was almost like a second living room, perfect for having guests over, or even a tenant for renting. The day went by fairly quick. I spent most of it talking to them about my job, politics in the world and other recent events. It wasn't until the evening arrived when my dad announced that in his spare time he'd managed to convert all the old home movie tapes onto DVDs. My dad was always the type to keep busy. He worked hard throughout the week and even on the weekends because he was unable to cope with the downtime. It was in these times that he'd keep himself busy with small side projects. Well, these projects varied from big ones like installing new floorboards to small ones

like planting fresh flowers outside. Apparently this time his projects had been converting the old takes before they came too bad to view. We decided to spend that evening watching the old movies to gawk and laugh at the old days in our lives. He popped in the first disc and left temporarily to use the bathroom. The video appeared to be during Christmas time. The footage was very grainy, producing a few white streaking lines across the screen. The timestamp in the corner aired December 25, 1991. In the video, we could see a big tree in the background, heavily decorated with tinsel and ornaments. Below it, a multitude of presents covered the floor, varying in size. After the side was my mother, my real mother, very young in appearance. She must have been at least

in her mid-twenties at the time. I didn't get a chance to know her. My father had informed me that she died when I was too young to remember. I only recognized her from photos I'd see in lying around. It wasn't until I was old enough that my father explained that her death was in fact a murder. some crazy loon had broken into their apartment and shot her we didn't really like to speak about it and i didn't blame him because of his feelings i never pressed him more about it the camera in the movie sat fixated without shaking given the assumption that it was on a stand soon after my father appeared from behind the camera to join her on the ground

he too was young in appearance it was strange to see them this way or about a small amount of laughter from me They both seemed to have their eyes fixated on something. It wasn't until my dad adjusted the camera that I could see that that something was me. There I was a younger version of myself. Checking the timestamp on the screen confirmed that I was one year old. I watched in awe as my younger self hobbled around curiously, grabbing small things around the apartment.

Occasionally he would render a smile to my parents whenever they called out my name in a soft tone. The moment was nice, until the screen went to complete static. The sound was a little distorted, but it was clear the video was not over. I can make out what sounded like a knock at the door from the audio, but wasn't sure entirely. My dad returned just as this happened, and went over to the television, cursing at it. He finally ejected the DVD and popped in a new one, informing us that the rest of the tape must have been too bad, before the full record.

Yet we didn't let that hinder the moment and prepared ourselves as the next disc loaded up. After a long evening of laughing and admiring our younger images on the home movies, we decided to call it tonight. We said our good-nights with my stepmother promising to cook us all a big breakfast tomorrow.

I made my way back downstairs and changed into my pajamas, eventually laying on my old bed. I lay there for a couple of minutes. just smiling to myself, still thinking about the videos and other times I'd had while growing up. Without realizing it, I found myself asleep. Now, this is when it all happened. This is when I had the dream.

In this dream, I found myself back in that old apartment I'd viewed with my parents earlier in the home movie. It was odd, though. Unlike the angle, the camera appeared in the video, I was standing offset of it. It was an angle that didn't appear in the video, and yet somehow I could see more of the apartment with greater detail. From the kitchen in the back, its sink full of dishes, to the pictures hanging on the wall. I wasn't sure how this amount of detail was applied, because clearly I was just a child at the time, and remembering this would be impossible. There was a possibility that my brain was just filling the gaps of the apartment with places I'd seen and been to, but deep down I thought otherwise. It felt like everything being presented was exactly how it was at that time.

Around the apartment, it was clearly Christmas time like in the video. I continued to look around, noticing my dad standing behind the camera, exactly like in the video, and my mother's sitting on the floor in view of it. As if on cue, he walked from behind the camera and sat next to my mother. It was literally like being present in the footage, scene for scene. I attempted to grab my parents' attention. I tried calling out to them, waving and even touching them, but it was like I didn't exist.

They couldn't see or hear me, and my hands went through them almost as if I was a ghost. My dad then shifted the camera to where I could hear my younger self-cooing and hobbling around to my side. I watched as the younger me began playing with a book, curiously, trying to figure out the subject. Suddenly, there came a little. loud banging at the door. The noise startled me, my parents included. I watched as my dad rose and

went to check the door. The door itself had a small pique hole. I record that I remember hearing what sounded like a knock on the door from the distorted video. I heard my dad mumble something in a confusing tone. It was something around the grounds of the peak hole was either being covered or that someone was standing really close to it. At this moment I got an uneasy sensation in my stomach. For whatever reason, I got the feeling that opening the door would be a mistake. However, before I could react, my dad unbolted the locks and opened the door. He was immediately struck with a barrel of a gun. I watched in horror as he grabbed his now bleeding head in pain. The assailant kicked my father back, causing him to fall over next to my

mother. My mother let out an ear splitting scream in fear. The The assailant came through the door, shutting it softly behind and locking the bolt across. Afterwards, the assailant gave off a hissing sh sound to my parents, hearing the voice confirmed that it was a man. He stood, silent, pointing the long barrel gun at my frightened parents. I too was frozen in fear, even knowing I couldn't be seen. The man wore a long black cloak over his body and a hood draped over his head. A few chains looped from his waist connecting his hip.

When I looked closer, there were several faint grey inverted crosses on the side of his hood and on the back of his cloak. Was this guy a part of some twisted religion? I carefully made my way around him. He remained in the same position, appearing to not show any indication to my presence, yet I still wasn't taking any chances. When I finally reached a good angle to see his face, My heart dropped. He was wearing a pale white mask over his face.

The mask was glossy. The eye-holes were wide open along with the mouth, both completely veiled in black. It gave off an eerie chill. It was as if the mask itself was frozen in a fear, emitting an ear, splitting scream for its life. We all just remained still for what felt like a long hour. Finally, my dad managed to mutter a question to the man, asking him why. he was doing this. The man, of course, remained silent, ignoring the question. My mother was still whimpering to herself while my dad kept his head low, applying pressure to the wound on his head.

He repeated his question with more anger in his tone. The man finally made a move, taking out a second pistol from within his robes with his other hand. He raised and pointed it in my direction. My heart began rapidly pounding against my chain. asked more than it had before. Could the man finally see me? Had he always been able to? I raised my hands up in a surrendering pose while backing up a little. When I did, I realised the angle of the gun was slightly off.

He was pointing it in my direction, but not at me exactly. I turned my head to see that he was in fact pointing the gun at me, the younger me, though. My mother let out another loud shriek when the man had the gun in the direction. of my one-year-old self. Of course, being a one-year-old, I didn't seem bothered by the gun. In fact, I was still playing around with the book from earlier,

oblivious to the whole situation. What was the man planning? Why did he break in to begin with? He clearly didn't want anything from my parents. I didn't have anything expensive at the time. More importantly, why was he pointing a gun at a one-year-old child? My heart dropped even further

when I heard him cocked the gun. gun what reason would he have for doing this what would it accomplish my mother attempted to move towards me but the man refocused his other gun on her cocking that weapon as well i looked back at my younger self who in turn looked up at the man giving a blank innocent stare the man appeared unfazed solid in his stunts i could see his finger slowly squeezing back on the trigger are still racing I quickly moved in the path of the gun, hoping to obscure his view. Realising it wouldn't make a difference, I decided to grab the gun, but my hand faced through it like before.

I couldn't touch him. His finger gradually continued to squeeze back on the trigger. It was like viewing the moment in slow motion, taking forever to occur. Unexpectedly, I found my mind being flooded with images. They were images of people. They looked to be the people I knew. throughout my life almost like a photo album endless images of moments and faces flashed by i saw my mother my father friends i'd

know girlfriends i'd had relations with everyone they continued appearing one after another and as they did i felt a pulsating pain grow in my head i couldn't take all the images at once it was too much and yet they persisted I found myself on my knees as the images began appearing at a faster rate. I was now a grip in my head almost shaking uncontrollably until they ceased without warning. The air felt cold. The warm colours around transitioned literally to a grey scale light colour. I looked up slowly, and when I did, I saw the flash of the barrel go off,

followed by the sound of a loud bang. Turned around to see the lifeless body. of my younger self lying on his band. A pool of blood quickly formed around him. The air was silent. My parents were speechless, frozen in disbelieve. The man lowered his gun, eventually letting it drop to the ground. We all remained silent and completely still.

He proceeded to lift his hand, removing his hood. Afterwards he slowly removed the mask from his face. My eyes could not comprehend what they viewed. what they viewed. This man, this murdering, psychopathic, religious nutcase's face was was my face. He had the same face as me, the current age me. Tears formed in his eyes and slowly made their way down his face. He turned to my parents. A small smile formed across his face. It wasn't a twisted smile or even a satisfied one. No, his smile. His smile. He was a smile in his eyes held a deep sense of sympathy with it he spoke with quivering words i'm sorry i had to i

i did you a favor forgive me without warning a blinding white light appeared out of nowhere completely engulfing me i could see a face appearing amidst the white before i could make it out i was immediately jaunted awake by the alarm on my sofa i sat up quickly the dream was still burning in my mind with every excruciating detail. When I looked down at my hands, I found them trembling. I put them to my sweaty chest to feel my heart knocking around uncontrollably to no end. What the hell kind of dream was that? After the dream, I couldn't fall back asleep again, or actually I didn't want to.

It was just so disturbing and, more importantly, too realistic. Lucky for me, it hadn't been too early in the morning. Soon my parents would wake up as well. This thought comforted me a little for, well, I didn't want to be alone. As expected, I could soon hear my stepmother adhering to her promise, cooking the large breakfast upstairs. Before heading up, I made sure to compose myself in the best manner I could. I didn't want them questioning me about the ordeal, even if it was just a dream. I wanted to prevent any reason to recall it, at least not at the moment.

It was too soon. I ascended the stairs and made my way to the kitchen, where I was greeted happily. I, of course, lied about how I'd slept. We ate breakfast silently, for the most part. Luckily, they were deeply involved with the Sunday paper, or they were on their tablets. After eating, I thanked them for the meal and promised I'd visit more often. I wanted to leave as quickly as possible, so I told them I had to leave early to prepare for work the next day. I packed up my things and said my good-byes before any.

entering my car. Meditating on that incident really helped me wrap my mind around it. It's helped me realize that it was just that, a dream. There was no deeper meaning to it, other than my mind conjuring up a freakish set of images based off what I'd seen prior to. As time went on, the images began acting more like a dream. I said I'd never forget it, and yet, like the typical one, it slowly was slipping away from me. I was ready to head back. Before I could turn my car on, my phone went on. On the other end was my boss. He asked me how I was doing and if I was willing to do an extended on-site service for a client, possibly for a week or two, depending on the number of computers. The project involved establishing networks and accounts, and mentioned that the client

would provide room and meals. Seeing nothing wrong with getting out of the business, seeing nothing wrong with getting out of the office for a while, I agreed and asked who the client was. He told me this would be a service provided for an independent church, the congregation room. I was particularly excited about this on-side job. Later on that evening my boss called again and filled me in on more details about the request. He told me that travelling to the church would be quite a drive and that its location was in the countryside secluded from most towns. He gave me strict instruction to abide by their basic rules and to not offend them by any means. Apparently they'd paid handsomely for this service, and he wanted to be sure our company kept every dime. He did know that I

only had to respect their rules and not necessarily buy into any of their religious activities or anything. He told me to stop by the office in the morning for the necessary equipment. He promised me that the company would reimburse me with the cost of travel, and reminded me to call daily with any updates. I wasn't a big fan of religion but I wasn't going to complain if they were providing food and a room for sleeping. Again, it was a chance to get out of the office for a few days. That night I quickly packed up enough items for two weeks into two big suitcases. After preloading my car, I set my alarm early, knowing that I would need to compensate for the drive. It was strange. My night was dreamless, and it was quick. It felt as if I'd only closed my eyes for a second before I heard my alarm go

for the next day. What struck me as even odd was the fact that I could not recall what had stirred me up the night before. I had a disturbing dream when visiting my parents that much I knew, but of what specifically, it evaded my memory. I dismissed the thought, believing it, well, to be for the best. Despite being tired from the early rise, I was up without a struggle and ready to embark. The outside air was cooler than I usually preferred. The sky was starless, almost like a dark veil was across it. I hopped in my car and kept the windows up this time, with the heat on full blast. There were a few times my eyes rolled back from tiredness, but the radio helped keep that temptation at bay.

I made the quick stop by the office to gather up all the necessary equipment needed for the job. My boss already had it packed and ready to be loaded upon my arrival. He wasn't there himself, but with the help from the third shift crew, I was able to load everything into my trunk. Afterwards, they provided me with a set of GPS directions provided by my boss. Once I thanked the crew for helping, I made my way on the road. The further I drove, the more scarce the streetlights and other cars became, and before long the sun had fully emerged,

giving sight to the endless oceans of green pastures and cornfields. Eventually, though, even the pastures came to an end, and soon I found myself swallowed by the dense patches of trees. My car barely managed to remain on the thin, rough path. Below I could hear the rocks and twigs crunching under the wheels. I held my breath a few times, slowing my vehicle down, hoping to not incur a flat tire, which was the last thing I needed. After what felt like ages, I finally came across a fairly large building ahead.

The building itself was an old structure, standing tall and standing tall, stretching far back into the woods. Its appearance was withered, made of old wood, pale and decayed. It swayed a few times at the course of the wind, letting off a most disturbing groan, as if suffering,

wishing to be put out of its misery. Truly it was amazing that such a building hadn't already collapsed. Continuing to approach, I could make out more of its structure. The building appeared to be two stories. In front was rather plain, aside from the monotonous row of windows, a row of three that ran across the second floor.

The windows themselves were elongated, running along the sides of the building as well. I was thrown off by the side of this structure. I was sure my boss had informed me that this was to be a church. Oh, I wasn't much of a churchgoer, but the building before me looked more like an old warehouse or boarding home rather than a place of worship. The rugged path led up to its entrance. In the front of a set of double doors I could see a lone figure standing, waiting for my approach. It was an elderly man in his mid-fifties, in a grey suit and black tie.

He immediately made his way to me when I parked. His walk was hobbled, but elegant in points. A little hesitant I gradually let down my window, greeted by his big, toothy smile. "'By afternoon, son,' he said in a strong. country accent. Yeah, the technician we've been waiting for. I was taken aback by his overpowering cologne. It smelled like a poor concoction of baby powder and sunflower seeds. He was bawling towards the top of his head, while his snowy white hair grew around the edge like a crescent. Deep wrinkles were pressed across his face and seemed to grow in number with his

smile. Slightly stuttering, I answered. Yes, sir. Pleased to meet you. He got to gave off an old man's chuckle, still housing his toothy grin. There's no need to be shy, son. I'm Reverend Gary Gooden. You can call me Gary. Welcome to Pete Sherup County, he said, extending out of hand. Nervously, I shook it. Oh, I'd like to personally thank you for coming all the way out here. I know it must have been something for you. Hope you didn't get too last on the way over. For some reason, I couldn't find my voice and only shook my head. "'Ah, that's good now. Look here. Why don't you swing your car right around the side? I'll get one of my people to help you get your stuff settled in.

Oh, you don't have to lift a finger, understand.' He gestured to the right-hand side of the building. I nodded and drove around as instructed and parked. Before I could even vacate the car, I jumped when staring ahead. There was a man standing in front. I hadn't even seen him approach. I couldn't lie. he was much younger than the reverend but clearly older than me yet slick black hair combed over to the side and wore a dark vest resting over a white

button top with grey dress pants and gave a slight wave while approaching my car I exited I was greeted with a firm handshake dear and scraw he said his accent wasn't as strong as the reverence welcome to peach her I could tell that his smile was forced Even his eyes looked annoyed, but I thanked him. You have any luggage on you? He asked. Yeah, I said.

It's in the back. I unlocked the door, but before I could turn around, the man quickly swooped over to the passenger door, opened it and pulled out both suitcases. Began making his way towards the front, gesturing me with his head. You all have to forgive my impatience. I was in the middle of something important

before the Reverend had me pulled to assist you. "'Oh, that's all right,' I assured him. "'I know the feeling. "'You'd be surprised how often my boss does that to me. "'Actually, I sometimes wonder if he wants me to get the job done. "'I joked, hoping to lighten the mood. "'He didn't laugh. "'I could hear his grunts as he struggled to carry the weight of my suitcases,

"' occasionally swaying to the sides. "'I felt guilty for letting him do so, "'but didn't want to impede on their hospitality. "'He led me around to the front, and threw the double doors. Half expected to see the Reverend waiting for us with his grin, but he was nowhere to be seen. Inside we came into what looked like a lobby area.

It was much nicer than I expected, completely different from the outside appearance. Inside the air was cold, borderline comfortable. Perhaps it was the hint of honey and sunflowers in the midst that made it bearable. The lobby was a simple room. Everything around held a car. pearl white it was filled with a few tables and chairs up against the wall a golden chandelier hung from the ceiling giving the bland room a more elegant feel a red carpet led from the

entrance to a set of closed double doors ahead two other doors set on the left and right walls both closed the man led me inside setting down the suitcases he took out a handkerchief from his vest pocket to wipe away the sweat from his brow "'This here is the lobby,' he finally said, "'tucking the handkerchief back into his pocket. "'I chuckled to myself as if that wasn't obvious. "'Through the left door,' he continued, "'you'll find a hallway leading to the dining area.

"'For the rides a staircase lead into the living quarters. "'You all be staying in room six. "'If you give me a minute, I'll fetch your keys.' "'What about those?' I asked, "'gestering to the main double doors ahead. "'Where do those lead to?' He glanced towards the doors as if now realizing their presence. Those lead to the congregation room where we conduct our services.

You'll find we conduct those on a daily basis. Daily? That's a bit much, I said, jokingly. What ever happened to once a week? Again, he didn't laugh. His face stern and solid. Mr. O... Pale.

Marcus Pail. Sorry, I never did introduce myself, I replied. "'Right, Mr. Pail, this is a church. "'I'm sure where you come from once a week will suffice, "'but here, well, it's our life.' "'He paused, peering into my eyes. "'You do attend church, right? "'My eyes must have given it away.

"'He smiled, shaking his head. "'You're not much of a religious man, now are you, Mr. Pail?' "'The turn of his voice matched his face. I shrugged slightly, taken offbeat at this question. No, I guess not, I answered. I see. Please forgive me when I say this, then. But maybe you should just keep your mind on your job,

and that's the reason why you're here, I understand. Yeah, sure, I replied, driving. Good, I'll be back with your keys. I just stood there. The nervous feeling I'd had earlier, had subsided. Now what I felt was awkwardness. What was the guy's problem? There was no need for this rudeness. The pity I felt for him earlier was no longer present. Yet I shook it off, remembering that my boss said not to offend these people in any way. Five minutes went by and I still

found myself standing there. What was taking so long? He made it sound like the keys were right behind the door. My eyes began wandering, bouncing from one side of the room to the next, until finally settling on the double doors. They had a symbol, an emblem of some kind, imprinted down the middle of them. Curious, I walked over to get a better look. The emblem on the white doors was golden, almost looking imperial light. It resembled a face, no, maybe it was a flower.

It was surrounded with what appeared to be a wavering cloak of some kind. Did it have to do with their religion? Still curious, I glanced over to the door where the man had disappeared behind. Finally, I returned my eyes back on the double doors. They had fairly lion-bar handles acting as the knobs. I was hesitant, but I slowly reached out to one of them. When my hand made contact with it, I felt a hint of warmness. This was peculiar because the room was cold, so how was this likely?

The handle felt as if someone had held it just recently, perhaps minutes ago. I jerked back on it, but the door didn't budge. I tried a few more times, but was unsuccessful. It was locked. I looked around it to see if there was a keyhole. Maybe I could peek inside. Instead, I found a small indent next to the handle. The indent was no bigger than a quarter, maybe, but, oh, could this be the lock?

I looked closer to see it. It had a similar design as the emblem engraved on the handle. the inside. Feeling defeated and made my way over to one of the chairs and sat. Hopefully the man wouldn't be any longer. It was probably for the best that it didn't open though. My first day on the job and I was already snooping around. I was actually glad the man didn't catch me attempting to break in like that. That stunk could have sent my ass home, especially since he already seemed to be an uptight jerk. If that had happened, my boss would have had a field day on me for blowing such a high-paying opportunity. The man eventually returned from the back with a large

ring of keys in his hand. He hastily ushered me to follow, grabbing my luggage and proceeded to the door on the right. Just as he'd mentioned, there was a staircase on the other side. This area appeared more on par with the outside appearance of the building, looking pale and decayed. Every step we took was followed by a long, windy creek. I was sure that at any moment they'd give out on either of us, but they never did. We reached the top and came to a long, dimly lit hallway with another red carpet, except this was long enough to run to the end. The doors in the hallway appeared adjacent and parallel to each other. Electric candles illuminated the area from the walls in between the doors. The man led me halfway down before halting at the door on the right.

This is your room, he stated, unlocking the door. The door produced a land, and the door produced a land, creek as he opened. I brace myself, expecting to find a poorly conditioned room, but was met with an agreeable sight indeed. It was similar in appearance to the lobby, playing with pearly white walls. A large king-sized bed sat neatly near the window, blanket and sheets, and even a pillow were already provided. In the corner sat a sturdy wooden desk with a brass lamp on its state. A tall bookshelf was leaned against the wall, empty of books, with a small, dresser to its side. The room looked very comfortable. I thought of staying in it for a few days was very appealing. The man placed my luggage near the dresser. You can put your clothes up in here.

Breakfast is at eight, lunch at 12 and dinner at six, sharp. He stated, handing me a key from the ring. You're welcome to wear whatever pleases you to the meals. Just make sure you're not late. We don't start eating until everyone is present. "'Eight, twelve, and six,' I repeated. "'Got it.' "'By the way, Mr. Pail, "'I'm interested to know how you proposed to conduct your work "'without any of your, um, supplies.'

"'He asked before leaving. "'I chuckled to myself. "'Oh, yeah, sorry, I forgot to mention "'all my equipment is in the trunk of my car.' "'He gave an unsettling glare and held out his hands. "'Your car keys, please.' "'I returned him and, and, unassured look, but quickly handed them over when I saw his glare tighten.

I return your keys once I've acquired everything that you all need from your car. The reverend informed me that you will not have to conduct any work till tomorrow, so please enjoy the rest of your evening. I'll move your supplies into the office downstairs. You can find the office ahead and through the door on the left. It's on the way to the dining area. We'll see you at dinner, he said, shutting the door behind him. And with that, I was left alone once again.

The quietness of my room left me with a dull, numbing sense. For a second, I was lost in its traps, until the moan of the building from the wind awakened me. Once out of it, I turned my attention back to my room. Clearly it must have recently been refurbished. I ran my fingers along the surface of the desk. Just from sight alone I could tell its history dead it back with the building. Even so it felt like it truly belonged, despite its age.

I made my way over to the window, looking below. I could see my car but no sight of the man. I shrugged it off. He could take as long as he wanted, as long as he didn't break anything, I thought. I smirked at this and returned my attention back inside. My eyes fell on the bookshelf. Although it was empty, several imprints from books could be seen in between the dust.

The size of the imprints indicated that they must have been fairly large books. Near the edge of the shelf, I could see dragging marks as if someone had removed all the books, maybe an angle, perhaps in a hurry. That was probably done on purpose. I couldn't blame them. These people here seemed like the secretive type. I probably didn't want me looking through any of their texts. My eyes floated over to the bed.

It looked very tempting. I wanted to just crash on it, but I knew I had to call my boss first. I promised him that I'd inform him of any update. Even though I hadn't started yet, I could at least inform him that I'd arrived on time. I pulled out my phone and checked the signal bar straight. It was hovering between one bar and none. This wasn't a surprise considering where I was. I played around with its positioning, first raising it higher and then side to side.

I had no luck, though. He even tried holding it close to the window, but was still unsuccessful. It was possible it was just the room blocking the signal. so I made my way out into the hallway, keeping my phone stretched out. With my eyes fixated on it, I moved around the hallway aimlessly, still changing its position. Eventually I realized how pointless it was. I decided to see if I had better luck outside. I went downstairs into the lobby, checking my phone along the way.

Feeling the frustration built up, I aimlessly swung it around, threatening to just toss the useless junk. Without warning, I was thrown off. by a loud scream. Following it came a voice that yelled out, Hey, watch it! I was stunned, almost jumping out of my skin. The voice belonged to a young woman, a quite attractive one to say the least.

Her green eyes flared at me in anger. She had open hair that curled around her face and over her eyes. She wore what appeared to be a black and green Victorian-style dress. The most eye-catching part about her, was that she was pregnant. She had to be at least eight months by how much her stomach extended through her gown. I'm sorry.

I didn't mean to, I stammered quickly. I was trying to find a signal, and I was getting... Her glare softened and a smile thought. She eventually let out a little giggle at my attempt to explain myself. Okay, okay, it's fine, you're forgiven already, she said. Her voice, she had a British accent. I wasn't sure why, considering everyone here, had a country one. You must be the technician I've been hearing about.

Yeah, I said, blushing. You've been hearing about me. Well, of course, she replied. They've been talking about you for weeks. Reverend Gary is especially excited. Oh, I'm Victoria Ruin, she said, holding out her hand for me to shake. I couldn't stop my blushing even when my hand met hers. It was smooth and felt frail to the time.

"'Well, aren't you going to tell me your name?' she asked. "'Oh, yeah, of course. I stammered again. It's Marcus. Marcus Pail.' "'Well, Marcus Pail, it's a pleasure to meet you. Oh, I'll have you know that cellular reception is very poor out in these woods. You can, however, use our telephone. It uses a landline connection and shouldn't give you any issues at all. I can take you to it if you like.' "'Yeah, sure, I appreciate that,' I replied. finally collecting myself. She began making a way to the hallway,

beckoning me to follow with one hand. I caught sight of a large silver ring on her ring finger. I guess she was married. Of course she was. A woman that beautiful ought to be married, I thought to myself. She led me through the door on the left, where I originally saw the man retrieve the keys. It led to a long hallway similar to the one upstairs.

This hallway was narrower, housing fewer doors all shut, tight. So tell me, Marcus, she began. Where are you from? From Arlington, I answered. And where is that? she asked, snickering. Sorry, it's in Northern Virginia, I answered, blushing. That's quite all right, she said, giggling. I've never been up north before. You're lucky to be able to travel around. All my life, I've been here.

Stuck here, that is. I've always wanted to venture out, but... "'But what?' I asked. "'No, it's nothing,' she said, biting her lip. "'She came to a door on the left and opened it. "'Oh, here we are. You can use this for it.' She pointed inside. I thanked her and entered. The room was tiny, just an upgrade from being considered a pantry. Inside it was a small wooden table, cramped at the back with an old foam.

A single door sat to the side and a small window. A strong collection of breads coated the air. making the cramped setting feel even more stuffy. I quickly dialed up my boss in infallion of the situation. He was glad to hear I'd arrived all right, and went into a speech about ensuring that I represented the company and the best man possible. Afterwards he told me to keep up the good work and to call him tomorrow.

After hanging up, I was surprised to find Victoria still waiting for me in the hallway. He didn't have to wait for me, I told her. She smiled. Well, honestly, I have nothing better to do. I've been cooped up in my room for the longest time because of this bloody baby. Oh, I said. I couldn't think of any response to this.

You don't talk much, do you? She asked, still smiling. I shrugged sheepishly. What can I say, I'm a quiet guy. Well, it's a change for sure. You're different from all the men around here. All they do is talk and lecture. They expect all the women to just listen.

It's quite maddening at times. "'Are all the men of the North like you?' "'I blushed at this. "'Are you the only woman here?' I asked, "'attempting to change the subject.' "'She scoffed. "'Of course not. "'I don't know what I'd do if I was.

"'Now there are two others. "'My Aunt Margaret and cousin Sophia. "'You'll meet them later at dinner. "'You are coming, of course.' "'Her emerald eyes gleamed into my own. "'I could feel my heart rate slowly increase. "'My face must have been bright red from blushing. "'Yeah,

Of course I will. Her smile widened. Oh, I've been bored the past few days. You want to go on a little adventure? Adventure, I repeated. Yes, I could give you a tour of the place. I'm sure you're wondering where everything's at. I really hadn't thought about the place as a whole.

The only area that vaguely interested me was the room behind the double doors, but I didn't feel comfortable asking her. Sure, why not? I answered. Good. She said, wrapping her arm around mine. Where do you want to go first? Well, her perfume engulfed me,

smelling of sweet berries and honey, a smell that was perfect for her. You want me to decide? Yes, of course. I don't want to bore you, showing you every nukkin cranny, she answered. I could tell she was reading my face because she added,

Come on, I know there's a place you're dying to explore. Well, I started. "'Yes, just spit it already,' she shot. "'I did kind of want to see what was behind those doors in the lobby,' I replied, rubbing my neck in shame. "'Doors? Or you mean the congregation room?' "'If we can't, I understand,' I quickly added. "'Nonsense, let's go,' she said, yanking my arm,

pulling me until we reach the lobby again. "'Victoria?' I asked as she made her way to the doors. "'Yes?' Yet, um, that symbol on the doors. What is it? I asked. She glanced over to the doors. That's the symbol of our religion. Well, their religion anyway.

I've gone tired of all their prayers and their sermons. It's all rubbish, really. Rubbish, if you don't care for it, then why are you here? I asked. Oh, you're right, I don't. I never was into it. Ever since I was a little girl, my father forced me to be a person. of it. All I've ever known

has been Herb Beach County, well, apart from a brief stay in the UK. I'm sure you can tell I don't exactly sound like I'm from around here. Yeah, I'd noticed, I said, rubbing my neck. Well, you have my aunt to thank for that. Anyways, I've grown really tired of it all. Like I said earlier, I want to venture out and see the rest of the world, at least my home country. I can't even remember it anymore.

So your aunt brought you here. What about your mother? What did she have to say about all this? She chuckled softly to herself. I have no memory of my mother. My father told me she died after I was conceived. I was raised mainly by my aunt. Oh, I'm sorry.

I replied softly. I know that feeling. My mother died when I was young too. We weren't quiet for a minute. Why don't you just leave? I suggested, breaking the silence. You're not a little girl anymore. You don't have to stay here now.

She smiled. If only it were that simple, Marcus. I would love to leave, but some things are not that simple, she said, looking down, rubbing her belly. Oh, I started. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to. I felt like a complete idiot. My talent of making awkward moments worse was starting to emerge.

I was bad at this kind of thing, and even worse at comforting someone. It was mainly the reason why I remained quiet. Let's not ruin your tour with my story, she interrupted, making her way over to the door. Yeah, I said, still feeling guilty. Even without thinking, I asked, How do we even get in? It's locked right.

A smile returned to her face. She turned to me giving off a jokingly suspicious expression. How did you know it was locked? I shruged pathetically, giving off a sheepish grin. I don't know. Out most of the doors in this place, Lord? It was a poor excuse, and I knew it. Uh-uh, you're more audacious than you make yourself, Mark as pale, she said, placing her ring into the small indent.

She twisted her wrist to the right, which prompted a soft click. Your ring's a key, I asked in astonishment. What does the north not have keys like these? She teased, pulling open one of the doors. Come on. I followed her behind the door. Inside the room was huge. The sweet aroma from the lobby seemed to fall flat, sucking out when the door shut.

Instead, the syng of smoke and ash filled the air. The lighting was very poor. What little light was present came from the cracks of the doors behind us. The room had long hues for seating, lined in rows. The rose made their way to the front of the room where they stopped before an altar. From there a small set of stairs ran up to a large podium. Behind it was a flat table on the altar. The table itself was covered in a white cloth.

Near the wall stood tall columns of rigid rock, as if crudely carved, connecting to the ceiling. In between them stood small marble pillars, each housing of brass bolt. "'What was this place?' "'I must have spoken the question out loud because Victoria answered me. "'It's the congregation room, silly.' "'Was something burning in here?' I asked her. "'Yes, it's from the candles. "'It's what we use during our services due to the poor lighting,' she answered.

"'Why not just install lights?' I brought up. "'Well, candles are also an important part of our service,' she said, "'almost as if I was supposed to know this already.' I dismissed it, though, and went further in. I climbed up the stairs of the altar, noticing a figure standing behind the podium. It was hard to make out in the shadows. Well, if it wasn't for the strands of light behind us, I wouldn't have even noticed it. I took out my phone and held it up to the figure, using its backlight.

What I saw almost caused me to tumble down the stairs. In front of me I saw a tall white statue depicting a strange figure well over my height. Its upper body was of a very fit man, bearing a strong chest and arms. The arms of the statue hung low, sweeping near its ankles. It only had three fingers, and the legs appeared inverted, its knees caving inward like a goat's legs. Even more disturbing was the head of the statue. It was a hard sight to bear.

The head looked to be a sick cross-breed between a dog and a man. It wasn't like the typical depiction of the statue. seen like in Egypt. No, this head was like a dog and a man simultaneously. It had a long, narrow snout that seemed to morph into the mouth of a man. Other parts of its face appeared human-like, well, in others, indescribable. The eyes were small and beady, staring firmly off into the distance. It held a third eye larger in comparison to the other two in the middle of its forehead. Long wild hair ran down its face, ending on its shoulders, with horns protruding from its back.

The statue as a whole stood in a confident pose as if knowing its presence was significant. Victoria! I felt my voice squeak. I could feel an eerie chill fall down my spine, unable to tear my eyes from the horrid view. What the hell is that? I stammered. Walking to me, her eyes carried over to the figure.

She seemed unfazed and calmly stated. That is our God. Larnius. The white eye of time. The book. What's wrong, Marcus? Victoria asked. You look absolutely pale.

Are you frightened? The light from the cell phone I dropped reflected back into my face. Even with its light in my eyes, I could still make out the horrid figure looming before me. Did you say, you're God, I stammered. You worship that thing, I asked, still unable to peel my eyes from it. I took a few steps back, losing my balance in the process. Instantly, I fell back, slamming into the seating cues behind me. A sharp pain erupted from my back as I could feel the rush of air painfully

forced its way into my mouth. I guess it was true that the wind could literally be knocked out of you. I remained still, feeling the pain surged from my back. "'Markus, are you all right?' Victoria asked, rushing to my side. "'Are you hurt?' "'Instantly there was a loud slam from a door behind us, "'flooding the room with bright light.' "'What the hell is going on in here?'

"'An angry voice yelled out. "'Victoria popped up. "'Nothing. "'We were just doing a little touring "'when Marcus had a tumble,' she said, "'addressing the voice. "'Marcus!' "'The voice responded in the same.

surprise. He brought an outsider into an area of worship. I could hear the voice's footsteps moving at high pace until they halted next to me. My eyes hadn't completely adjusted to the light yet, so all I could see was a partially lit figure, a man at least. It didn't matter who it was, though. They sounded angry regardless. This could be the moment I was going to be sent home. He fell. I'm not sure if he's injured himself or not. Victoria continued. The man sighed. He does look pretty banged up. Hey, can you at least move?

He asked, looking down at me. I hadn't tried yet, but I attempted to move my arms and then my legs. Despite the lingering pain from my back, nothing appeared to be broken. I think I'll be all right, I replied weakly. I slowly began to stand, feeling the man helped me up. Are you sure you're all right, Marcus? Victoria asked again. he'll be all right the man said helping me towards the light of the door when my eyes eventually adjusted i can make out his face

it was terence after reaching the exit he shut the door to the room behind us it felt good to be out of there and back in the coolness of the lobby apparently i've been sweating because i could see the large spots across my chest now look here i know you're our guest and all but i'm going to need you're a guest and all but i'm going to need you you to end your little exploring he said to me before turning his attention over to Victoria as for you you ought to know better matter of fact you should be resting we're lucky that didn't happen to you now with that baby no more exploring else things like this happen he said sharply it felt like we were both being scolded as if we were his children just remember your job here he said turning to me

So if you just stick to that, you'll be fine. You best go and wash up. Dinner will be ready soon. Bathrooms at the end of the hall on the left. Just make sure you knock before you enter. Go on now. I nodded weakly, catching Victoria's apologetic eyes as I turned to leave. I wasn't mad at her for what had happened.

How could I be? It was my own fault for clumsily falling like I did. I made my way back upstairs and cleaned up. By the time I'd finished, it was so. 6.03 p.m. I knew Terrence had told me not to be late, but I didn't want to be the first one to show up either. I cut it too close, though, and hastily made my way back down, heading through the door on the left in the lobby. Coursing through the hallway, I caught the hint of food in the air. The smell gradually increased the closer I drew to the other side. By the time I'd reached the end,

my stomach was beginning to growl in protest. Even my mouth began to water. I approached a pair of double doors and could see light coming out through its cracks. Behind them I could make out the murmuring of voices. This is it, I thought. I took a deep breath and pushed open the doors. The dining room on the other side was big, like fancy big. The vibe I felt reminded me of the formality back in the old days, early 1900s maybe. Several antique cabinets stood up against the walls.

They had glass doors with the insides filled with priceless looking treasures. Portraits ran along the walls, portraying the faces of people, possibly ancestors of the sort, well, their eyes firmly staring forward as if a silent audience to the event. In the centre of the room a large table sat filled bountifully of plates with mountains of food and drinks. The other residents of this church could be seen standing around the table, chatting among themselves. However, their chatting ceased when the door shut behind me. They all gazed at me silently. My nerves were through the roof,

so I just stood there like a deer caught in the headlights. What now, I thought? Finally one of the women spoke out to me. Ah, you must be Marcus. Welcome, my dear. She had a British accent like Victoria's, and I quickly assumed this had to be her aunt. She was most likely in her mid-40s,

with a face lightly stained, in wrinkles. She had dark hair tied neatly in a bun and wore a dress similar to Victoria's, but with more red in it. I'm Margaret, pleased to meet you, she said, walking up to me. After shaking my hand, she guided me over to the others around the table. There were four others. One was a woman she introduced to be Sophia. Apparently the cousin Victoria had mentioned. I was surprised to hear she didn't exhibit the same accent as the other two, instead having the same country one as the reverend. She was much younger than Margaret and probably a few years older than me. The next person was Terrence who I'd already met. From him was another man about the same age as him,

named Jesse. Lastly, she showed me Victoria. I couldn't hold back my smile when I saw her. She returned one as well. Margaret caught sight of this. I take it you've already met my niece, she stated with a teasing smile. Well, I started, beginning to blush. Yes, Victoria spoke. I was showing Marcus around earlier, trying to get him familiar with everything for when he starts his work. Oh, I see, Margaret replied.

Well, come now, dear. You sit over here. She led me to an empty chair near the end of the table next to her. Everyone else made their way behind their respective chairs, too. Victorius stood behind the chair across from my own. I was ready to pull out the chair and sit when I caught sight of her eyes, beckoning me not to do so. I quickly corrected myself, realizing that everyone was still standing as well.

When the Reverend arrives, we can begin eating soon, Margaret said. Please excuse him, he can run a little late sometimes. I chuckled a little to myself, thinking of Terence's words from before. However, it wasn't long until everyone's attention turned to the door opposite the end of the table. I hadn't realised it was there. I was curious to where it led,

possibly to the Reverend's quarters. The door opened and the Reverend came walking through. He still had his hobbled walk from earlier. His face still pressed with the same toothy grin. When he came through, everyone spoke in unison. Evening, Reverend. His smile grew wider, at which he replied. Evening, everyone.

He pulled out his chair and sat down, gesturing everyone to join him. We all followed suit, and the food before us was truly a sight. There were many dishes flooded gracefully with food, rice dishes, freshly looking vegetables like corn and baked potatoes, sliced bread and even three roasted meats. A large silver plate sat before, everyone, along with rows of forks and knives around it. I noticed that many wine bottles were spaced along the table. The food looked simply amazing and I couldn't wait to eat, but was hesitant to make a move, unsure of their manner of etiquette.

I decided to follow any and all actions of Victoria. It's probably the reason why she's had a cross from me. Let us bow our heads for prayer, the Reverend announced. My eyes shifted over to Victoria. She bowed her head with one eye open, pressing a finger to her lips while looking at me. Then she placed her hands together. I nodded and did so too.

From then, the air was silent. I wasn't sure how much time had elapsed, but it felt long. At least five minutes. I opened one eye to check to see if everyone was still praying. Everyone, including the reverend still, had their eyes shut. I could see them all mouthing something silently to themselves. Margaret, I could see, was holding tightly to a charm from her necklace up to her forehead. I could only make out partial amounts of it, but I was sure it was the same emblem as the congregation room.

I noticed that everyone had a similar ring like Victoria all on their ring finger. The rings each withheld the same emblem engraved within it. This made sense since apparently there were keys to the room itself. I noticed Terence didn't have a ring on his finger. I saw it hanging from a necklace. When I looked at the reverend I saw he had two rings. One was the same as the others, but the second one was different. I could tell the symbol wasn't the same, but the way his hands were positioned made it,

so I couldn't distinctly make it out. Amen, the reverend finally spoke out. On command, everyone's eyes opened. Let us eat now, he said, raising his hands out. Everyone began grabbing at a bowl or a plate, passing it around, filling their plate at their leisure. I was glad it was finally time to eat. I don't think my stomach could have taken another minute. I could feel my mouth watering even more, but I sat patiently, occasionally glancing over to Victoria for guidance.

So, Marcus, the Reverend spoke out. Terence told me he had quite a tumble today. hearing his voice gave me a little jolt snapping me out of whatever hunger trance I was in yes sir I managed to say oh dear are you all right Margaret asked you didn't hurt yourself too bad did you now

no I'm fine I answered a little sore but I'll be all right that's good to hear Sophia added where was this I wouldn't want anyone else to do the same now I swatted a little not wanting to explain I'd been somewhere I wasn't supposed to be.

Somehow my eyes guided over to where Terrance sat. The glare from them felt unsettling as if his look alone was punishing me. Oh, he was in the congregation room. He said sternly without removing his gaze upon me. Say what now? Jesse replied, joining in. How did he manage to get in there? He was held by Victoria. Terence answered without hesitation.

The way he said it, though, felt like he was dying to get it off his chest. It was like he was reporting a crime or something, expecting a reward. My eyes fell to my plate, unable to meet anyone else's. I was unsure what would happen next at this point. Oh dear, Margaret said softly.

Did you have a candle on you, hon? She asked. I quickly looked up, surprised at her response. "'Victoria,' she continued, "'you took him in there with no proper lighting. "'It's no wonder he banged himself up.' "'I couldn't believe it. "'Here I thought I was going to hear a mouthful

"'about invading their sanctuary, "'and instead they brushed it off like it was nothing. "'I glanced over at Terence, "'who appeared to be just as surprised by this reaction. "'Instead he grumbly turned his attention to his plate, "'unable to look at me in defeat. "'I looked over at the reverend, and he too seemed unfazed, still smiling.

No, I wasn't thinking when I did, Victoria answered. However, we were doing fine without a candle. It was more from the statue that startled Marcus. Margaret and the others laughed at this. Oh, I was dreadfully frightened too when I first saw that as a child, she replied. It's quite a sight at first, Marcus, but I assure you, when you learn about Larnius, you grow to truly understand him.

what he is. I swallowed a little more of this. And, um, what is he? I asked, leaning in a bit. Ah, now, Margaret, the Reverend interrupted, chuckling a bit. We don't want to bring the young man all the way up here to teach him a sermon. Give the young man a chance to eat. Oh, of course, Margaret replied with a giggle. Eat up, Marcus. We don't waste anything around here, she said, passing a bowl of potatoes. I felt my stomach growl again at the sight of them. I couldn't believe I'd forgotten about my hunger. I thanked her and added it to my plate. I glanced over at Victoria, who gave me a slight nod of approval. I smiled and began receiving the other dishes being passed around. The rest of the meal went by smoothly. There was chatter amongst everyone, I listened as they went

on about their everyday occurrences. It was funny to hear them bicker at each other a few times, too. occasionally one of them would ask me a question or two about where I was from what I did by then though I didn't feel nervous anymore after dinner the Reverend dismissed everyone on the way to my room Victoria caught up with me Marcus she called out I just wanted to apologize for what I asked for how Terence acted in there I chuckled it's fine I was just happy everyone else didn't feel the same way "'Yes, well, Terence has always been that way. "'I'm just sorry you tried to call you out like that,' she replied. "'I'm fine,' I said, blushing a little, trying to brush it off. "'You did the same to you, too,' I joked. "'We headed back upstairs, stopping when we arrived at my door.

"'Well, good night, Marcus. "'Today was truly a pleasure.' "'Good night,' I replied. "'I watched a continue down the whole. hallway, stopping at her door on the left three away. She glanced my way when she saw I was still staring. Immediately I snapped my head towards my door, unlocking it and closing it behind me. Inside, I smiled to myself. I quickly got dressed down into some shorts and the tea, sat on my bed. I decided to look for any new messages on my phone. The screen lit up revealing a surprising,

no signal message. Of course, I thought. thought sarcastically, how could I forget? This place was a damn dead zone. I fell back, lying completely on the bed. Before I knew it, I was out. I awoke suddenly, blinded by light. Apparently I'd forgotten to turn off the lamp on the desk. The last thing I needed was them to complain about wasting their electricity. I slumped over to my feet to turn it on. After doing so, I caught sight of something outside. Below I could make out my car in the moonlight. I could see that a clump of leaves had been blown over a lot of its roof. However, that's not what caught my attention. I could see a figure standing next to my car. Even with the moonlight, I still could not make out who it was. It did

appear as if the figure was trying to enter into my car. I tried to focus my eyes better, but it still didn't help. I wanted to blame it on my tiredness, but my mind instant. thought about Terrence. Perhaps that jerk was still sore about dinner. He could have been trying to sabotage my car or something. I ran from my door, ripping it open and racing down the hall to the stairs. When I reached the lobby, I stopped. The entire lobby was dark. In the air I could smell a hint of something burning like candles. I noticed a thin line of light coming from the congregation room's double doors. Completely forgetting about my car, I made my way to the doors.

I could hear the slight murmur of voices from inside the closer I got. I pressed my ear up against the door to get a better listen. But I still couldn't make out what the voices were saying. I could hear one voice speak out now. When it did, the other voices would speak in unison in the same rhythm. It was clear that they were repeating the message of the lead one. The tone and manner they spoke and sent a chill down my spine. It was clear this was the church.

conducting their worship upon whatever that horrid image was I'd seen earlier. I didn't understand how they could worship such a thing, but then I didn't know how any religion could worship anything as they did. I decided to let them be and made my way back upstairs. I didn't seem like bad people, so how could I judge them based on what their belief was? Victoria was a prime example of someone good from it. When I entered my room I glanced out the window one last time expecting to still see something below. However, nothing was there.

I shrugged it off. It was possible that there never was. I slipped back into my bed and fell asleep again. The next day I was awoken by a knocking at my door. I was surprised to find Terrence on the other side. He apparently was ready for me to begin my work as soon as possible. When I checked my phone, the time read 6.30 a.m. This was a real dick moved by him.

I didn't even wake up this early for my work. job back home. Reluctantly I bit my tongue and told him I'd be ready in ten minutes. After getting ready he led me to the room where he'd placed all of my equipment. The room had several old computers inside, like late 90s old. I hoped that they didn't expect the best performance out of these dinosaurs. Nonetheless, I had a job to do. I immediately began setting up my equipment. I was even lucky to have company the whole time. Terence saw to that. seriously what was this guy's problem eventually though the time went by and even he got bored and left me well i was happy when this happened the day went by fairly quickly once i got into my work of course when the meal times came around i attended them a few times out of the day victoria came by to check on me she'd forced me to take a break by walking around with her which i didn't mind at all days continued to pass as i

I worked, each one becoming more routine. Throughout these days I found myself spending more time with Victoria. I always look forward to these great times I had with her. We'd walk around, just talking and laughing. Most of the time we did so outside. I never thought that I'd meet someone like her in a place like this. It made each day more doable. It was almost like our friendship was becoming more. I didn't mind if it didn't, but if it did, that was even better. It was better. There was something that bothered me, though. Every time we were together, it felt as if someone or something was watching us. I couldn't shake the feeling, even when I looked around, only to find nothing. I wanted to think nothing of it until one particular evening. After dinner, I came back

to my room to find that someone had gone through my stuff. Well, I hadn't transported any of my clothes from my bags to the dresser, feeling too lazy to do so. One of my bags had a Velcro strap to accompany the zipper for reinforcement. I knew I always kept the Velcro fastened. I was rather OCD about it. However, the Velcro was clearly unfastened and hanging lutes. The first thought that ran through my mind was this was Terrence's doing, but I had no proof. It was possible that I was just looking for someone to blame.

I never did confirm who it was by my car, if there really was someone. so I couldn't prove that it had been Terrence at all. I decided to look through the bag to be sure nothing was missing. I went through to find that everything appeared to be there. I could tell my things were moved around a bit, but other than that, nothing. Clearly whatever the culprit was looking for, they didn't find it. I couldn't lie. I was angry that someone had gone through my things.

Was it really Terence's doing? Did he really have something against me that much that he'd do all? of this? Maybe I should confront him, I thought. No, the last thing I wanted to do was to start accusing people which never look good. I decided to let it slide, just this once. I got into shorts and clasped onto the bed. When I did so, I felt my head hit something hard. I felt around the pillow and instead of the usual fluffiness, I felt a heart texture. Someone had stuffed something. I reached inside and pulled out the objects. It was a thick, old, leathery book.

I brought it over to the lamp on the desk to see it better. The cover looked hand-stitched to the spine. In the light I could see a symbol engraved across it in gold. It was the same one I'd seen everywhere. My hands began to tremble at the sight of this. How did the book get there? Who put it there and why? I was hesitant when I slowly opened it.

He gave off a peculiar scent, smelling of wet leaves, an old tree bark. The pages were old and rather fragile. They were filled with text written in black ink. I couldn't comprehend the words. They were written in some strange language. It didn't even look like a language that should have existed. I continued to turn the pages, though, seeing the text flood each one. A few pages in I came across a picture.

It was hand-drawn with limited details. The picture depicted what looked to be a star. Around the star stood several figures looking like people, one appearing slightly bigger than the others. I turned the page to find more texts. I continued turning until finally I came across another picture. This one showed one of the human-like figures standing on what looked like a pedestal. The other human-like being stood around the main one. Again, I flipped until I came across the next picture.

This picture showed the star from before It looked bigger But with squiggly marks shooting away from it The human-like beings appeared to be cowering in fear Kneeling down at the star Even the big one from before The picture after depicted the human-like beings falling from the sky Their faces drawn in fear

The one I turned to after Showed them drawn in a dark place Their faces twisted in despair It then showed the human-like figures begin to change into hideous, deformed-like creatures. They had teeth and horns protruding out of different parts of their bodies. The biggest one looked even worse than the rest with eyes drawn angrily with sparks coming from its fang-filled mouth. Despite looking like the drawing of an eighth grader, the images were really disturbing. Something about them made the

hairs on my neck rise. I wanted to stop, but my hands kept turning the pages despite my mind's wishes. The next one showed one of the hideous being stray from the others. It was smaller compared to them. The creature came across a man in the next one. It appeared to reveal a swirl-looking symbol to the man. The man appeared to walk through the swirl, and when he did the creature followed. A small child stood in front of the man in the next one. It was weird, but the two looked similar somehow. The creature appeared to possess the child's body. When it did, the man fell to the ground, presumably dead. Now in the child's body, the child grew up, and as it did, it showed the creature leave the man's body, depicting it underground, possibly sleeping. The man was seen surrounded by

many people with others joining. Eventually, like before, it showed the creature awakened next to the showing him another swirl again the man walked through the swirl with the creature following appearing in front of a child once again it possessed the child and the man died the images repeated each time as they did I noticed the creature's size growing bigger finally I skipped further into the book to see where they led the images revealed something different this time now it showed the man with a woman the the creature standing behind her. When I flip where the next image would appear, I found its page stuck tightly together to another.

I tried to part them, but a tear began to form, threatening to ruin both pages altogether. I decided to skip it and move on to the next image. My heart dropped when I did. This time the image showed the woman pregnant among the group of people from before. The images went on to show the woman in labour giving birth. The man appeared to have delivered the baby. However, it looked like no ordinary child. He was depicted to have large black eyes with long teeth.

Horns poked out in many directions of the child, with its legs and arms disproportionate to each other. The man was holding the child in the air, almost like he was glorifying it. At that moment I couldn't take any more and slammed the book shut. I tossed it to the other side of the room. I could feel my heart pounding in my chest, my arms and face sweating. I shook my head in disbelief.

It was no way, I thought. What the hell was all that even about? After seeing those images, I couldn't sleep for most of the nights. All I could see was the horrid, inked images of that creature. When I thought of that woman depicted as being pregnant, I couldn't help but think of Victoria. There's no way it could have been her, could it? A lot of women can be pregnant

It's just a coincidence It had to be The next day I worked sluggishly From the lack of sleep At breakfast I made no eye contact with Victoria Nor did I talk to anyone else If they asked I simply blamed it on a headache Or tiredness

While working I pleaded to myself Hoping Victoria would not come by As she usually did Yet despite my internal pleads She came Marcus Are you feeling any better?

She asked, entering the room. I didn't respond. I didn't even look up. Marcus, she said. Are you all right? My silence caused her to press on. What's wrong? Why are you ignoring me?

She asked. I could hear a hint of annoyance in her voice. Still, I gave her no answer. What could I say? All I could think about was, fine, she yelled, and proceeded to leave the room. "'That child?' I asked her, without looking out.

"'I could hear her footsteps come to a home.' "'What?' she asked, confused. "'Who's the father of your child?' I rephrased. "'What? Is that what this is all about?' she asked. "'I stood out finally facing her. It was direct, but I had to know. My face, along with my silence, must have said it all for her. I could see the look of confusion in her eyes. Why does it matter? she asked harshly.

I need to know, I stated firmly. I wanted it to be from her boyfriend or even her deadbeat husband. Any of these were better than what I was thinking. Yet the entire time I'd been here, I'd not seen him nor had there been any mention of him. She just stared at me, with her mouth open as if trying to find the words to speak. tears formed in her eyes. They were gazing at me angrily and with sadness simultaneously.

She shook her head softly, never taking her eyes from mine. Finally, she spoke. You stay away from me, Marcos. Never come near me or speak to me again, or I shall have you sent home. She stormed out, leaving me dumbfounded. Well, my plan had backfired. I wanted to call out to her, to stop her and apologize, but again I was at a loss for words.

So like an idiot, I just stood there and let my head fall down in grief. As the day continued on, Victoria never returned to see me while I worked. At mealtime she never made eye contact with me either, keeping her eyes focused on her plate. I felt horrible for what I'd done. I had no right to put her on the spot like that. I cursed at myself. After dinner I attempted to talk to her as she was leaving for her room. She ignored me, though, when I did.

I don't know why I thought knocking on her door would be any better. All I received upon it opening was having it immediately slammed in my face. I sighed, truly feeling utter regret and made my way back to my room. When I did, I sat on my bed, staring off into space. Oh, I wished I'd never found that damn book, and everything between her and I would have been normal. I miss seeing her already, a smile, hearing her love. laugh, just being around her.

I let my hands slide to my pillow to check for the book, only to find it missing. Stunned, I poured out the pillow's contents, finding only feathers and cotton. I was sure I put it back after I'd left each time. Was someone messing with me? I angrily began searching for the book. I checked my suitcases, tossing clothes around as I did. I checked the dresses, under the bed, and even behind the desk. Where was it?

My eyes met the window when I came from under the desk. When I looked down, I saw the same figure from all those days before, standing next to my car. This time it appeared to be looking up at me. Anger filled me. I assumed it was Terrence again. This was a bad time for him to be messing with me. I raced out of my room and downstairs, I ran around to the side of the buildings where my car was. The moonlight was stronger than ever, illuminating my way as I did.

When I reached my car, no one was inside. I'd finally reached my boiling point. Oh, you'd pick the wrong day to fuck with me, I yelled out. Come on out now, if not, leave me the hell alone. My voice echoed into the air before dying in the wind. The building gave off one of its unsettling moans. The leaves from the trees in the distant shook, rattling against their branches in the wind. There was no one out there.

Feeling my mind grow at ease and realizing how much of a fool I looked, I started to make my way back. However, my nerves froze when I heard the snapping of a twig behind me. My heart began beating fast. I slowly turned around to see a figure gradually rising from behind my car. The figure was wearing a cloak with a hood over its head. In the light I could see pieces of twigs and leaves sticking out of its cloak. I opened my mouth to scream, but the figure quickly darted over to me, covering my mouth with its hand. It shushed me softly.

The voice was clearly of a woman. She slowly removed her hand from my mouth and made her way to the back of the building. Before disappearing behind it, she gestured me to follow her. Well, I didn't want to, but my legs began to move on their own in her direction. When I reached the other side, I saw her remove the hood from her. her head. The moonlight lit her face. She was an elderly-looking woman, possibly in her early 50s. She had ragged black hair mixed with grey strands that ran untamed. Her face was pressed with wrinkles with dry patches of dirt. The scent from her was rank, but familiar. It smelled

like wet leaves and old tree bar. Did you see it? She whispered. Her voice was crackly and rascly and rasp. You saw it in the book, right? You have to help me. You have to help me save my daughter. The ritual. Who the hell are you? I asked, backing up from the woman. Please, she begged, grabbing at my arm. The smell from her was more unbearable up close. Get off me, you old hag, I yelled, pulling myself free. She shushed me loudly. Her eyes appeared wide, scanning the area with paranoia. You want them to hear? Who'll hear?

What are you talking about? I asked harshly. There's only been a few minutes with her, and I was already beginning to become irritated. Them, she hissed. I could see the whites of her eyes gleam in the moonlight at her weak attempt to scare me. I shook my head, unmoved.

I don't have time for this. I'm really tired, and I've got to get up early. Honestly, I don't care what you do out here, but just stay away from my car. I don't want to catch you near it again or else I'll report you. Oh, please don't, she begged, ready to grab at me again. However, I was able to avoid her clawing hands this time. Fine, I shot back. Just don't touch me again.

I'm leaving now. As I turned to leave, I could see the old woman's head salt to the ground. Normally this would have been the part where I felt sorry but right now I didn't care. I was too tired with my mind overwhelmed with the events that had transpired throughout the day. Besides, she was clearly deranged in the head, possibly homeless or maybe one of those people who lived off the land. I started to walk away when it hit me. I thought about what she'd said earlier. I look back to still see her eyeing the ground, almost appearing in her trap.

I was reluctant to go back, but I had to know. What did you mean your daughter? And how did you know about the book? I asked, approaching her. Without looking up, she answered. My daughter, I need you to help me save her. Your daughter? Who's your daughter?

You already know of her. Why do you ask me? She replied, looking up at me. Her eyes relays. a look of solemn. I need to hear it from you, I said. I was sure I knew the answer, as she mentioned, but something inside me wanted to hear those words come from her.

I wanted to be absolutely sure. Say your name. Why, it's Victoria, of course. She said softly. I shook my head in disbelief. But how? You're her mother, but you're supposed to be... She said you die.

when she was just a child. Ah, is that what she told you? She scoffed. It'd be like Gary to tell her such a lie. What? Yeah, she said stiffly. He took her from it. When I didn't want to submit to his religion, he banished me.

This couldn't be possible. Victoria's mother was dead, right? But how would I know otherwise? I did notice, when I listened closely, I could hear her accent hidden behind her raspy voice. Wait, this man you're talking about, I started. Couldn't have been the same person. Do you mean the Reverend?

She didn't answer me immediately. Instead, her eyes wandered off into the trees beyond, but eventually her head gave a soft nod. I sighed. Look, you said to help your daughter, and that the Reverend took her. Why didn't you just go to the police or something? She chuckled to herself lightly, returning her eyes to mine. You don't know these people.

Well, I don't know anything because you're not telling me everything, I replied harshly. My impatience had elevated to annoyance. All you need to know is that the people you think you know are liars. The reverend is the worst of them. Oh, they need my daughter. They made her a part of their revolting ritual. I should never abroad her here. I was so weak-minded back then.

Damn! She spout bitterly. I don't know what to do, but then. Then I saw you arrive. At first I was unsure what to think of you yet. While watching you with Victoria, I knew it'd be you who had helped me to do what I couldn't and take her away from all this.

And it all started to come together. All those times it felt like something or someone was watching me. It had been her. Yet I was still confused. She hadn't really answered my question and only contributed to the pile of others. That's a lot to believe, especially about the others. They don't act the way you make them out to be.

Besides, what ritual are you talking about? I asked. You're very fond of her, aren't you? She asked, ignoring my question. A Victoria? What? I blurted out. I could feel my cheeks reddening.

I'm glad that you are, she said, smiling. does my heart good to see another care for Victoria's idea. This is the reason why I knew you'd help me. But I had to show you first of what they planned to do and what they've already done. I left that book in your room as proof. You saw it, so you now know too. I was thrown off again. I couldn't believe she was behind the placement of the book as well.

Wait a second. I don't even know what I saw in that book. I couldn't even read the words. you don't need the words you saw the pictures didn't you she shot back what you saw as being done well i didn't know what to think the images on those pages were indeed horrific i wanted to believe but another part of me didn't want to accept it you mean to tell me that what's growing in victoria is i couldn't finish the words What can you expect from me then? It seems a bit too late now.

There is one thing we can do, she brought up. I can dispel their ritual. Stop it before it's ever completed and that evil is born. Why haven't you done it already? Because, she began, I need access to their room of worship and last I check I lost my key. She held up her hand for me to see. I can make out a small stump where her ring finger used to be.

What the hell? I stammered. The rings are more than show. I'm sure you know that by now. They're keys, but there's a darker secret behind them. They're also a symbol to show your allegiance to the faith by permanently clamping onto the wearer's finger. The only way to remove it is by removing the finger entirely. When they banished me, I was so torn that I bit off my own finger.

I didn't want anything on me that was associated with them. That's crazy, it was all I could say. I couldn't fathom someone wanting to risk their finger or any part of their body on the basis of their faith or anything. I've heard of tattoos, but this was way beyond that. I couldn't help but picture the woman clamping down on her finger until it snapped and spitting it out. The very thought made my stomach churn.

Yes, but it was only after so well. that I wished that I hadn't. I could have ended this nightmare years ago. You know, let my anger cloud my judgment. But you're here now, which means there is hope again. Me, I replied. I don't have a ring either, though. I know, but the others do.

She said, smiling. Do you know, Terence? I gritted my teeth. How could I not, the prick? I muttered. Terence is a lapdog when it comes to the Reverend and the faith. But he's too much of a pansy to wear the ring like the others. He keeps his on a necklace he wears, she continued.

I've seen it, I replied, recalling the times at dinner. How am I supposed to get it if it's on him? Ah, this is where you come in perfectly. You probably don't see much of everyone throughout the day. That's because there are chores to be done to keep the place up and running. Terence is a working man. He normally chops up wood or fetches game for the meals. when he bares afterwards he takes off the necklace

I know this because I used to do the sheets around the living quarters who would see his ring just lying there that's the best time to do it for he never locks his door at that time either if you can take his ring at that moment bring it to me and I'll do the rents I bet my lip thinking on it I don't know it seems a bit risky

if I get caught I'm finished and you'll have me sent home instantly and don't get caught called. You're the one who can walk around easily. If I could do it, I would, but they'd see me on first sight. I was barely able to place that book in your room. Please. You have to do this, for Victoria. I gave off another long sigh before conceiving. With that, a smile formed wider than it ever had on her face. I could see the many crooked rows of her blackened and yellow teeth. "'Good,' she said, leaning close to me.

"'I've been watching Terrence for a while. "'He's already chopped off a good round of logs for now, "'but he'll need to do so again. "'He does it every two days, "'so the day after tomorrow you'll have to make your move.' "'She explained, and I nodded. "'Once I get it, how will I contact you? "'Where will I find you?'

"'She paused for a moment before answering. "'Your lamp. if you're able to get the ring then turn your lamp on and leave it on I'm always watching so I'll see it I nodded then what then bring the ring down to me

and I'll conduct my ceremony in the room that time I want you to get Victoria out of here wait what about you I asked I'll be fine I've survived this long so

don't worry about me she answered you should go now we don't want anyone catching wind of you out here "'Yeah, right,' I agreed, turning to leave. "'There's one more thing I need you to do,' the old woman said. "'What is it?' I asked. "'I need you to promise to never mention this meeting to Victoria. "'She must never know you've seen me.'

"'What?' I said in bewilderment. "'But Victoria, be thrilled to know that you're alive. "'I know she would, which is why she cannot know that I am, or else she won't want to leave. Now, can you do that for me? I heard her voice quiver off. Her eyes became glossy in the moonlight. I swallowed hard and nodded.

She returned a grateful nod and faded until I could no longer see her among the shadows. I shivered a little. The chill of the wind was finally getting to me, so I quickly ran back inside and got back up to my room. The following day, I started the day early, as usual, for my work. Throughout it, I thought about the plan, regardless of how I felt,

I knew I had to make it work. I also knew I had to stall the overall progress of my work. So, I made sure to inform Terrence that I'd need a few extra days to complete it. My boss didn't pick up when I called, so I left him the message. I made up some BS excuse about needing more time to set up and ensure the system was functioning correctly. After lunch I proceeded to head to my room to take a nap. Normally I would have spent this time with Victoria.

When I unlocked my door, I heard a grunting sound. The noise was subtle at first and appeared to be coming from the end of the hallway. I paused for a moment unsure if I'd actually heard anything. I was ready to shrug it off until I heard it again, but a little louder this time. Curious, I made my way down the hallway, listening as I did. I stopped at the door I presumed it came from and pressed my ear up against it. I heard it again. I took my ear away.

This was Victoria's door. hesitant, I knocked on it lightly. Hey, are you all right in there? I asked. There was no answer. Victoria, it's me, Marcus, I continued. I could hear rapid breathing from inside, sounding almost like hyperventilating. didn't sound good frantic knocked on the door with a little more force victoria are you all right what's going on in there i asked urgently can you let me in please go away i heard a say in between gasps i sighed pressing my head softly up against the door look i understand you don't want to talk to me i began and i don't blame you i had no right to i was a jerk back there I shouldn't have been prying as I did, but in truth I don't care about the baby or who the father is.

I never did. I just wanted you to know that. The words again failed me. I could see them in my mind, but I just couldn't push them out. I'm sorry, I forced her. I wanted to tell her something else about how I felt about her, about everything, but the timing didn't feel right. I turned to leave, but stopped when I heard the door open behind. She had it half-cocked to allow her face to peer through. She stared at me a moment as if analysing my eyes for truth. Finally she opened it fully, walking back into her room. I followed her, closing the door behind.

Her room was nice. Unlike mine which was bland and almost empty, her room was more cosy. She had a desk filled with books, some open journals, others, maybe novels. Her mini-dresser was compliment. with a vase filled with several flowers clearly well cared for. The scent of her perfume lingered in the air. I embraced its smell, a scent I long miss. What was the noise I heard earlier? I asked.

I thought something was wrong. She walked over to the bed and sat, making a painful face as she did. I'm fine, she said gravely. It's just this bloody baby's all. I joined her on the bed. I meant what I said. out there. I began. I don't care about it. You don't have to tell me about it at all, either. She kept her gaze away from me, but I could see tears forming in her eyes.

Just shut up, Marcus, she said with a quivering look, but just shut it. She broke down in tears, cupping her face with her hands. I was bad at handling these kind of moments. They always left me feeling awkward, but I gradually reached over to her shoulder to comfort her. She immediately threw herself on me, bawling her eyes out on my chest. After a good, solid five minutes, she finally stopped. Her eyes were reddened and her nose slightly running. You said your mother died when you were young, she finally said.

How did she die? I sighed. She was killed, I answered, after a long pause. Some guy broke into the apartment and shot her. "'Marcus,' she said softly. "'I'm so sorry. That must have been devastating for you. "'Yeah, well, I don't remember when it happened. "'Like I said, I was too young.

"'I could feel a sob a little more on my chest. "'It was my father,' she finally said, leaning on my shoulder. "'Father,' I repeated, confused. "'Yes, he did this to me,' she said, looking down at her stomach. My eyes widened as I poured away. Your father did this. Who is he?

Who do you think? She said, harshly wiping her eyes. I thought about it for a second, and immediately my eyes flashed. The reverend to your father, I asked. I couldn't believe it. Her mother said he took Victoria from her, but mentioned nothing of him being the father as well. Victoria nodded, but then shook her head.

Well, he's my stepfather. My mother met him after my real father dies. If he did this, why didn't you tell anyone? Because I couldn't prove it. He drugged me or something, I don't know. At first I didn't want to say anything, but when I started showing signs of the baby, he went on to tell everyone that it was a miracle,

that it was a gift from Lanias, she explained. And like aimless sheep, they question nothing, taking in his poison words. But I knew the truth because he was the only one else there. A few more tears fell down her cheek. I bit my lip when she said this. This part sounded all too familiar. I thought about the book and the image of the man standing with the woman and that horrid figure behind her. Was it all true, though? She had no memory of the event.

Was it possible that this sick action was all just the reverence doing, regardless of which Victoria's mother was right. These people were monsters. If not that, then ignorant. At this point I wanted to cheer her up. I thought about telling her everything about her mother, but remembered the promise I'd made. Instead, I lifted her chin up so that her eyes were looking into my own. I can take you away from all this.

All we have to do is jump in my car and leave. leave, you'll never have to see this place again. I could see a mixture between happiness and fear in her eyes. But how? Where will we go? You can stay with me. I have my own place. It's safe. You trust me. Marcus. She spoke softly. A smile gradually formed on her lips. Yes, let's do it, she said, rendering me a tight hug. we should leave tonight

tonight I repeat it yes after dinner any earlier now become suspicious they always hold their sermons late at night which gives us enough time between then we can leave then

I looked away trying to find a way to convey my thoughts I didn't want to reveal the plan or her mother what's wrong Marcus how about tomorrow night I suggested tomorrow why why do we have to stay here another day let's leave tonight no it has to be tomorrow night i quickly shot back without thinking

marcus i don't understand is there something you're not telling me i place my hands on her shoulders firmly looking her in the eyes look you have to trust me i have a plan with her friend they're willing to help but it has to be tomorrow okay full of so much confusion. I knew she thirsted for answers, but luckily she simply nodded. Okay, I trust you. For a second, we began to lean in for a kiss, when we were both startled by an abrupt knocking at the door. I answered it to discover Sophia on the other side. Mr. Payle, she said surprisingly, we were beginning to worry about you when you didn't find you in your workspace. Her eyes shifted their gaze between me and Victoria. I trust I wasn't interrupting her.

No, I said, trying to maintain my composure. I was just checking on Victoria. I turned back to give her a wave and slid past Sophia. Heading down, I glanced down the hall to still see her in Victoria's doorway. I didn't want to arouse suspicion, so I continued on and back to the room I was working in. I was glad I'd patched things up with Victoria. The feeling helped ease my thoughts on the plan. I wondered if we could really pull it off.

Leaving the place was one thing, but stealing the ring from that jerk was another. Something broke this mood, though. I was heading back to continue my work when I caught sight of Terrence walking outside with an axe over his shoulder. That was strange. There was probably nothing to worry about me. The woman said he'd chopped every two days. It'd still need to do it tomorrow.

He probably needed it for something else, I assured myself, though the thought wasn't that reassuring. I decided to keep my eye on him while I worked on the case. I looked towards the trees, hoping to maybe catch a sight of the old woman, but didn't see anything. I didn't actually believe I'd see her since she'd been able to keep herself invisible for years. I was sure, though, that she, too, was watching everything. It continued working until Sophia came to me.

she informed me that my boss had called and was waiting on the phone great perfect timing as always i thought grumpily what did he want anyway she led me back to the phone where i found it sitting off the hook on its signs apparently he was following up on the message i left and wanted to ensure i was making progress i told him that everything would be up soon hoping to end the phone call quickly i noticed the small window in the room and peered out of it stretching the phone line as i did I gazed out and to my horror I saw Terrence making his way back. His shirt was fully soaked in sweat while he was pushing a wheelbarrow full of chopped logs. After dumping the logs off he made his way around to the front. I felt my heart leap into my throat. Well in my ear I could hear my boss go into another one of his speeches about representing the company. Oh, fuck the company right now, I thought. I had a small window of opportunity and I was about to miss it.

we were completely wrong. I could already hear Terrence slam the front door and proceed to the stairs. I quickly thought of a way to let my boss allow me to hang up, lying that one of the clients had asked for my help. Once over, I raced out of the room, nearly smacking into Margaret on the way. Goodness me, you're running as if a fire spurned, she claimed. I apologise frantically, my eyes looking down the hallway behind her. Is everything all right, dear?

she asked with a puzzled look. Yeah, I lied. I just need to use the bathroom really bad. Oh, I shouldn't keep you, she replied, holding a hand up to her mouth. I thanked her and raised towards the stairs, stopping immediately before reaching the top. I cautiously peeked down the hallway.

No one was in sight. Where was he? Was he still in his room, or did he already enter the bathroom? I crept up the last remaining steps slowly, eventually making my way down the hall. I could hear the sound of water running in the background. Yes, he was in the shower, but for how long?

Knowing I didn't have much time, I sped up my pace until I reached his door. I opened it quickly, shutting it behind me. Surprisingly, his room was a lot like mine. It wasn't much in it. It was bland and almost empty. Anything he did have like books were nicely organized in their place. I began looking around, making sure to return anything. I had moved to its original place. I could feel my heart pounding in my chest. Every sound I heard

with a creak or thump, I associated it with being Terrence. It felt like my senses had amplified. I found myself constantly looking towards the door in paranoia, thinking he could barge in at any moment. I looked through his dresser and all around his bookcase, but found nothing. I started searching the desk, pulling open drawers to see inside. When I opened that last drawer, I froze. Inside I could make out a familiar object, a gun. It was a revolver. I didn't know the specifics, but it had a very long barrel. I could see the dust that had formed over it. Clearly it hadn't been touched in a while. I shut the drawer and continued searching around. In the end, well, I couldn't believe it. The ring wasn't there. How could that be? I wanted

to check over everything again, but a feeling inside... urge me to leave. I listened to it and left the room gently, closing the door behind me. I started to head back to my room when I heard a voice call out. Oi! I heard, freezing my nerves. He almost shouted in complete terror out of shock. I turned to see a half-robed Terrence dripping in the hallway. A towel was wrapped around his waist, soaking up what little water dripped from his wet body. His sweaty clothes were tightly gripped in a ball in one hand while the other held his shoes. What are you doing down here?

He asked Sturley. My heart was now knocking against my chest as if wanting to burst out. I just needed to use the bathroom, I lied. I didn't realize someone was in until I got down the hall. Terence squinted hard at me as if trying to figure me out, but finally gestured to the bathroom with his head. Well, it's free now, he said. I thanked him and made my wife.

past him. I pushed open the door to the small bathroom and immediately my eyes lit up. There, sitting on the sink, was the necklace with the ring attached. He'd had it with him all along. I was close to reaching it until I heard someone behind me. Ah, there's the blasted thing, Terrence said, moving past me and grabbing it. It's all yours for real now, he said, and left. I couldn't believe it. The plan had failed. I wanted to punch a wall or something, even scream out loud. Yet when I really thought about it,

there was no chance of getting away with it freely. Even if he had left in his room, he would have immediately noticed. There wouldn't have been enough time to give it to the old woman and leave with Victoria, especially if we planned to leave in the evening. I sighed and began my long walk of defeat back. What could I tell the old woman now? We didn't have an alternate plan. I continued, heading downstairs and decided to get back to work.

Maybe I could think of something while I did so. Dinner eventually came by and still I had no idea what to do. I was sure the old woman had seen my lamp was still off to relay the failure of the plan. I wondered if she would possibly come up with a solution of her own. Marcus, how far along are you with your work? margaret inquired pulling me from my thoughts i heard there were minor delays well everything should be up and running by tomorrow i answered there's a dreadful thought we're going to miss having you around you're almost like a member of the family now she said giving off an unsettling giggle i've actually been mean to ask you why you needed this service anyway it doesn't seem like you really needed i brought up on the contrary my boy the reverence Our faith is a rare breed, that doesn't mean there aren't any other inspiring souls out there.

We want to be able to reach any and all potential followers. With your help, we can do that and upload our sermons for all to see. Oh, okay, I said weekly. A mere thought of them uploading footage of them worshipping made me feel uneasy. Plus, it brought you to us, Marcus. Having a young lad such as yourself as truly been a pleasure, he continued. I smiled sheepishly and glanced over to Victoria. She appeared to be squinting in pain.

Are you all right, my dear? Margaret asked when she caught sight of this too. Victoria appeared to be suppressing the pain. Yes, she answered. I think I just need to lie down for the evening. Do you need any help? Sophia offered. No, I'll be fine. Please, there's no need to worry about me, she said, excusing herself from the table.

I just need to rest. I could see her gripping her stomach as she digs. I wanted to leave the table as well, but my legs remain frozen, numb to the commands of my brain. I just sat there watching her leave. For some reason, I could not shake the feeling of discomfort. After dinner, I made my way back to my room. In the hallway, I glanced down towards Victoria's door. What were we going to do now?

The planet failed, and tomorrow was the day I promised would be our last year. I entered my room, almost slamming it shut. I could feel tears of anger growing in my eyes. Why did it all have to go to hell? Why did that bastard have to ruin everything? And why did I fuck it up so patly? I must have eventually passed out from my rage fit because I was soon awakened by the sound of voices and footsteps.

The footsteps sounded urgent, rushing from one end of the hallway to the next. Without warring a blood-curdling wail filled the end. I grew so loud that I had to put my hands over my ears. It sounded like a woman's voice, victorious. I raced to my door, ready to rip it open, but immediately I stopped myself. I could hear a sound worse than her wail.

It was so eerie and frightening that it sent an icy chill down my spine. What I heard was the low chanting of voices. They spoke in unison, reciting words I couldn't comprehend. I could see a dim light flicker across the door's bottom crack. While it did, I could hear Victoria's moans of pain. The voices grew louder, passing my door, eventually fading into the distance. I cracked open my door to look out, which led out its signature creek.

I was sure it would alert them and halted it in mid-swing. I could see the hallway was still quiet. I opened the door fully, taking a step outside. It was dark and absent of light. Under my shoe I felt something wet. I took out my phone and used the backlight to get a better view. It was some kind of liquid, maybe water. I was ready to believe this thought until I accidentally dropped my phone in it.

I quickly grabbed it in a panic, wiping it off, but the liquid only seemed to smear it. I took my phone back into my room to see it better in the light. It wasn't water. It was blood. My heart skipped at the realization of this. I went back in the hallway using my phone's light again over the liquid. I could make out more of it leading to the stairs. The other end of the hallway showed the trail led back to Victoria's room, which had its light on.

I swallowed hard and walked towards it, trying to mentally prepare myself for the worst. I reached it and slowly edged my way in. There was blood everywhere. A trail of it ran from the door up to her bed. The sheets were completely doused in red. I could smell a perfume mixed with smoke and a metallic smell of blood. I felt my stomach give in at the sight. Immediately I vomited all that I had eaten.

I felt my knees weaken and give way as well, falling to the ground and dropping my phone in the process. I must have blacked out for a few seconds before regaining awareness. When I did regain consciousness, I noticed my phone's backlight about to turn black. I quickly got up, horrified that I'd been laying next to blood. What had happened in here? I grabbed my phone and glanced at the bed. A puddle of red soaked the lower half of the sheets.

However, I noticed there was another spot, much smaller, forming near her pillow. I slowly reached for it unsure what I was about to see. I couldn't imagine anything worse, but I was wrong. To my dismay, I found a finger. It was clearly cut off with the tip of its bones sticking out of the red-covered flesh. It appeared to be victorious. It had to have been. Next to the finger was a small knife with its tip covered in blood.

Why did she cut it off? I observed the finger closer and realised the ring was there, doused in red. She cut her finger off so that I would have it. The key to the congregation room. She must have done so out of desperation. I thought about the pain she must have shown from her contractions at dinner. She must have felt it was time for the child. Those sick bastards were going to go through with their ritual.

They didn't care about Victoria. The old woman was right. I had to do something. I promised her that I would get her out of here. and I was going to keep it. I hesitantly picked out the finger. It was still warm. I placed it in my pocket with care.

Racing out of the room, I came to a stop when I remembered the gun kept by Terrence. It was something I was probably going to need. His door was locked when I tried to open it, but I didn't care. I didn't have time to waste and began kicking it until the handle caved in. I pushed it open, running to the desk drawer where I'd last seen the gun.

I opened it, and smiled. It was still there. I grabbed it, feeling its weight fall into my hand. With my thumb, I popped its wheel open to reveal six bullets lined in their chambers.

Perfect, I thought, and tucked it in the back of my pants and then ran out of the room. I got to the bottom of the stairs and noticed that the lobby was dark, the scent of candles in the air. The trail of blood from earlier could be seen leading to the congregation room.

I pressed my ear up against the double doors to listen. It was silent, no voices or wails from Victoria. Something wasn't right. I tried the handle only to find it locked as it always was. I reached into my pocket, pulling out the finger. I checked with a small indent on the door, placed it up against it, and twisted it to the right the way I remembered Victoria doing so. Instantly there was a soft click from the door. I pulled up the handle again and could feel the door move. This was it.

I placed the finger back in my pocket and peeked through the small cramp. All I could see was darkness. I opened the door wider and was met with a warm breeze to my face. With it opened, I could see a dim light flickering from the sides. I poked my head in first before completely entering. The light was coming from the canter. was mounted on columns near the walls. With it I could make out the room

even more than I had the first time. The entire area looked older in the light. The walls appeared worn out and decayed, almost blackened as if burned. The columns appeared ancient in nature, broiled with cracks and fungus throughout. A deep scent of ash and moisture filled the air. I could now see the seating hues

were carved from stone, similar to the columns. A few were split in areas, almost falling apart. The place looked like it had been there for centuries. The building must have been built around it. In the corner of my eye, I caught sight of a dark figure off to the sides. The candlelight flickered across it, producing a vague outline of it. I swallowed hard, peering towards a thing with frightened eyes. Something was there, and it was watching me.

Hello? I called out softly to it. I could feel every hair standing up on my neck. Hello? I said again, my voice quivering. The figure gave no answer in return. I slowly walked to it, watching as the light flickered across it. With the distance closing between us, I could see its pale face in the light. My heart plummeted, empty black holes were present where his eyes were supposed to be. The mouth of it was gaped wide open.

almost like it was screaming in terror, but no noise came out. I was ready to bolt out of there until I noticed that it did nothing. It didn't even move. Cautiously I approached the figure with my hand stretched out. I eased cautiously, half expecting it to lash out at me at any moment. Finally, I touched its surface. When I did, I took a deep sigh of romewerexed. relief. It was only a mask. I picked it up, revealing its disturbing features even more close up.

I looked back at the wall to see the figure was, in fact, a black cloak of some kind. I pulled it off, releasing it from the hook, and brought both objects into the light. It was a cloak and mask all right. Thank goodness. Was this what they wore for their ceremonies? I looked back at the wall to see several other empty hooks lined up. Blancing back at the cloak, I noticed a faded image running across it. It was a symbol, but not like the one on the door. I recognised this one, though. It was an inverted cross.

It had chains attached as well, hanging from its waistline. It must have been victorious. Without warning, I was startled by the faint echo of a woman's whales. It was coming from further back in the room. I followed the noise which brought me up to the altar. At the top I could make out a familiar sight behind the podium. It was a statue from before,

still horrid to the eyes as ever. As I climbed the stairs, the image of the statue became more apparent. It still brought an eerie feeling to me right down to my bones. I couldn't stand the side of it and looked away as I passed it. Behind it I saw the mouth of a cave.

Reaching it, I could see it stretched deep down into the darkness. It was dimly lit by a few candles mounted on its walls. Stone steps descended with it. I could feel a warm breeze flowing from it like the breath of a large beast. Every so often a whale would echo from its depths, sending my heart into its own depths with it. This was crazy. How could all this be in here?

It was clear that this, that all of it, was way over my head. I wanted to turn around. God knows I wanted to, but with each whale I thought of Victoria. I couldn't leave her to suffer. I glanced down at my hands to discover that I was still holding the cloak and the mask. It was a long shot, but I thought if I wore it, it would help me blend in. Even if it only bought me a few minutes, I could use whatever edge I could get. I threw on the cloak and placed the mask over my face.

I took one last deep breath and began making my descent. The white eye. The stairs felt like they would never end. I pressed onward though, passing by one of the mounted candles ever so often. In between them I was left in utter darkness, at the whim of my own footing. I took my time walking down them, adding to the anxiety to reach the bottom. Voices began to echo from the abyss below, bouncing off the walls. Once again I could hear their monotone words being spoken in unison,

still incomprehensible to me. In the darkness the words were even more nerve-wrecking. It almost didn't sound human. The last of the stairs brought me to a large chasm. A few candles were mounted on these walls as well, but they weren't of much help. I could see their light reveal a set of different tunnels pointing in diverse directions. From here it looked like I had to choose a path. but which one was right. If I chose wrong, I knew it would be nearly impossible

to retrace my steps, especially in this darkness. The voices from earlier began to echo once again. Among the cave walls, they all bounced around, amplified by the acoustics. I focused on the sound,

trying to pinpoint their origin. Finally, after several minutes, I was able to determine that they were coming from the tunnel on the left, so I headed in that direction. The tunnel was, completely dark, absent of candles. A few times I tripped on the rocky surface, but using the walls help maintain my balance. It continued to stretch onward. All I could see was an endless void

in front of me. As I walked, I felt the urge to stop, feeling as if I would smack into a wall or something. All the while the voices continued their chanting, growing louder than more I pushed forward. Finally, I reached an opening. It was glowing. all the while producing a wave of heat. I came to a rocky perch. On the side I could hear another set of stone stairs curved down to the area below.

I didn't need to take them because the perch gave a good overview of everything below. I crouched and moved closer to get a better view. What I saw would forever be burned in my mind. Below I could see four individuals

standing in a square formation, each facing inward. Four bowls containing an intent. fire were set in between each of the individuals, forming together some sort of a diamond. There were markings in red, producing an arrangement of symbols and designs behind each of the figures. I noticed how all of them donned the same cloak and mask as I was wearing. Each of them were slowly bobbing their heads, their hands glassed as in prayer, except one. The one was holding up a camcorder to film it all.

Standing in the centre I saw a fifth person. This one wore a different clothes. It was pale white and more loosely fitting than the others. The mask worn was black instead of white, almost as dark as the tunnel itself. If not for the light from the bowls, it would have looked like a faceless being. It had to be the reverend.

Each time he spoke out that strange language, the others would repeat it in unison. My eyes widened when I saw what. was behind the reverend there was a stone table covered with a white sheet and on it i saw victoria clenching her stomach in pain every so often she would let out an intense wail that filled the air the white sheet underneath her was half soaked in blood now what i didn't know what to do now now that i was here without warning i was pulled from my thoughts when i felt something touched my shoulder i spun around almost screaming out loud.

However, my eyes recognized the figure crouching behind me. It was the old woman, Victoria's mother. She'd followed me down here. She held up a finger to her lip and slowly crept past me to look below. We must stop this before it's too late, she whispered over her shoulder. How? I asked. What can we do? We can't just run down there without some sort of plan.

She nodded in agreement I know We need to sprinkle this within the inner circle She said Pulling out a small glass file It was filled with a clear liquid At the stage she's in now Victoria will need some of this on her as well

That's it I asked sadly That's the plan Yes she replied Returning her gaze below Once this is sprinkled I need to recite my own incantation to cancel out the effects of their ritual.

Only then will Victoria be saved, and the rest of the world. I shivered a little. The world. He never did mention what would happen if the child was born, I inquired. Nothing good, I assure you. But that will not happen, she answered. Listen, I have a plan. I was all ears and leaned in close.

We need to draw them away from here so I can conduct the incantation. How are we going to do it? to do that. A distraction, of course, she replied, producing a twisted smile. We all need their undivided attention. I need to conduct the ceremony, so for that we have to lead them away. I sighed deeply. I really didn't like this plan already, but it seemed like the only other option. After taking a few breaths, I stood up to announce my presence. Hey, I yelled out. That was all I could think to say. Immediately they went silent below, staring up at me. The light bounced off the faces of their twisted masks. Not one said a word until the reverend spoke out.

Ah, Marcus, is that you? He asked out loud. What a surprise it is to see you down here. What the hell's going on here? I stammered. What are you fucks doing with Victoria? You bastards it's better let her go, or I'll get the police involved. The Reverend chuckled. His mask's bouncing a little. Marcus, he said softly, almost in a joking manner. When you first arrived, I will admit I thought I understood everything about you. Just from our first conversation,

at the time you looked like nothing more but a stammering piglet that had gone astray. Couldn't even get your words outright. I could see the others slowly moving away from their spots. Edging away to the stairs. But you surprised me with your bold antics. He sneaked into our congregation room, attempted to steal one of my members' rings. Oh, yes, I know about that, he continued.

My eyes lit up. How could he have known? He even warmed up to Victoria, convincing her to leave all this and her family behind. He finished. Now that, my boy, is something. Tell me, I know you're sick of seeing everyone suffer, like your grandfather or even your mother that passed away when you were young.

I was dumbstruck. How did he know about all this? He couldn't have. He continued. All those people out there in the world as well, suffering, doing so unnecessarily for what reason? But for what he wants, he said, pointing upwards. With Lannius, though, we can reshape this world. Or he'll reshape everything in his image, and raise all that pain and all that suffering.

Everything will be set right, the way it should be. Why not be willing to join him in this transformation? I could see the other members drawing closer to the stairs. Think about it, Marcus. How are we really that bad of people? Look at yourself. Well, if you really believed in that you could hold on to. He continued, join us down here.

be a part of that new world, a new direction. You're already halfway there. You got what you need right on you now. So, want to come down the path fully, he said, lifting his hands up. Victoria's suffering right now, but when this is all over, she won't anymore. You can even be with her in the new world. It's what you want, isn't it? My eyes glanced over at Victoria, still gasping in pain.

Her eyes clenched painfully shut. I listened as she let out another horrific well. I could see an impression of something moving around in her, pressing upward against her skin. My voice was lost, was unable to say anything. This bastard was crazy. They all were. However, if that was truly the case, then,

why was I so hesitant? Was there a part of me that wanted this, that believed in this? Immediately the old woman stood up to reveal herself, too. "'Pyazness words never failed to excrete from your mouth, you sniveling a snake,' she hissed him. "'Who is that up there with you, Mark? He asked calmly. "'Who do you think, you foul bastard?' she barked. "'Carolina,' he said surprised. "'I must have made I'm a bit shocked to see you still living.

"'I must ask how you managed to escape the gaze of Lanius. "'Wouldn't you like to know? you aren't the only one who can conjure up a spell or two she snapped right he said unfazed you always were an unpredictable one carolina i was truly heartbroken when i learned you weren't fully on board with us she scoffed at this so marcus what will it be he asked returning his attention to me i glanced over to see the old woman's eyes gleaming at me from the shadows she shook her head in dismay, mouthing something softly. I couldn't hear her words, but I could make out the last word escaping her lips. "'Lie,' I said softly. "'Come again?' the Reverend asked. "'I said, no, you satanic fuck.' He sighed, dropping his arms. "'Ah, that's too bad, son.' He gestured with his head to the others who immediately sprang up the stairs. "'Move it!'

The old woman yelled, bolting down the tunnel we'd enter from. I was surprised she was even able to move at such speed. Without wasting time, I quickly hurried behind her. I could hear their footsteps echoing, following us. I didn't know where I was going. There was nothing but endless void before me. I felt my feet trip again a few times as I went. My lungs were burning, begging me to stop,

but the adrenaline pumping through me must have kept me going. Eventually, we reached the original. chasm with all the tunnels. We need to split them up. Try to lose them in the best way you can, she said in deep breaths. I was half out of breath myself, barely catching what she said.

Without hesitation she ran off to the tunnel on the left. I took the hint and danted down the nearest one to my right. On the inside I hope that I had not chosen one with a dead end. The tunnel itself was very tight. I felt the sharp edges of the walls scrape against my eyes. arms a few times, but I pressed onward, thinking quickly I pulled out my phone using its light to help go out the way. Ahead of me, my eyes made out what I had dreaded what happened.

I had reached a dead end. Shit, I yelled out. There was no way I could turn around, not if they were following me. However, I was surprised to find that the wall wasn't like the tunnel's uneven texture. Looking closer, it appeared to be a type of door. It was still made of stone, but it was smooth and had markings engraved along it. I couldn't make them out, but the phone on my light revealed a familiar sight. I could see a small indent with a symbol etched within.

It was familiar to that of the one for the congregation room's doors. The finger, I thought out loud. I reached into my pocket trying to find it. Behind me I could hear the clapping of footsteps gaining on me. I struggled to pull the damn thing out. When I did, I pressed it up against the indent and twisted. At first, nothing happened, but soon the door began to move. A loud moan was produced from it as it lifted slowly upwards.

I could hear the footsteps getting closer, but the door was still at my ankles. I yelled and cursed at the damn thing to hurry, till at last it was up to my chest. It was good enough for me. I was ready to bolt through the opening when suddenly I was tackled from behind. The force from the tackle sent me forward along with my attacker. We both rolled into the room sliding away from each other. I landed crudely, banging my knee and elbow in the process. It wasn't until I looked up that I caught the scent of something putrid in the air.

The room we'd entered was colder than the other areas and seemed to be darkened. My impaired vision must have amplified my sense of smell because I was compromised. completely appalled by it. It was as if something had been decaying, or rather many things had. Under my hand, I felt something hard poked me. I couldn't see the object clearly, but I felt how smooth it was, almost too perfect. Around it I felt other objects with the same feeling. I wanted to use my cell phone, but I couldn't find it. Clearly, I dropped it from the fall. I did, however, hear a man grunting. Apparently my attacker. You little shesph! shit, I knew you'd be trouble from the start, I heard him say.

The voice sounded like Terrence. I could hear him standing up. His breathing was still rapid from the chase. My heart leapt into my throat. I tried to be extra careful while I rose to my feet, hoping not to withdraw his attention. If he was like me, then it was impossible to see anything in this darkness. If quiet enough, I could probably sneak past him. I started moving forward, taking small steps while I listened for him.

The Reverend told me about the ring. You thought you were slick about it all, huh? He yelled out, his voice echoing. You see, the Reverend knows all and sees all. I could hear his footsteps pacing around. The acoustics of the room made it hard to pinpoint his exact position. Then he installed one of our tombs. but I have found it, he continued.

I was glad you did, though. You got to see what's coming to that bitch. I hope you enjoyed every last bit of it, he said, chuckling. I don't know what came over me after that. After hearing those disgusting words, I somehow managed to find and pounce on Terrance in an immense rage. I didn't hesitate and swung where I thought his head was, striking a hard surface.

He hit out in pain. It was his mask that I'd struck. He laughed, rendering a strong blow into my stomach. I felt the wind painfully rip its way from my mouth. Afterwards he pushed me away, which sent me falling on my back. I felt the sting of something hard press itself against me. I reached behind for the object, and my eyes lit up. Immediately after his hands grabbed at my legs to pull me close,

I was still in pain, I kicked at him and poured it. out the object from below. I cocked it, aimed in his direction, and pulled a trigger. A flash of light lit up the entire area for a split second, followed by a loud back. The noise echoed throughout the chasm and beyond. That flash of light was enough for me to locate my phone. I grabbed it, pushed a button, and aimed it in front of me. I could see Terence in the illumination, gripping his arm in pain. The blood from his His wound dripped to the ground. Ah, you little, he started, but croaked in pain.

The gun shook in my hand. This was the first time I'd ever shot one before, let alone a person. I didn't get time to decide what to do next. There was a deep growl that filled the air and echoed all around us. The ground almost felt like it was trembling. At the back in the room I could hear something twisting around. its movements were crackly and heavy the odor from earlier grew stronger flooding my nose even more than before oh shit it's awake i heard terence scream out he turned to leave yet before i could even blink i felt a large rush of wind

raised past me the smell of its odor lingered behind it whatever it was it was fast and it was huge The next thing I heard Was it pounding on Terrence I could hear it ripping into him And tearing pieces apart His screams flooded the air A blood-curdling shrill So intense as it drew tears from my eyes

I could hear the thing continue To tear at him, cracking bones as it did Somehow I managed to find the feeling in my legs And bolted out of the room Behind me I heard the thing Let out a frightening roar I didn't stop Ringo, pushing as hard as I could through the tight walls.

I could hear its heavy footsteps pounding behind me. I could hear its heavy footsteps pounding behind me. The snarls from its breathing grew closer in my ear. It was gaining quickly. Without thinking, I aimed the gun behind me and fired off a few rounds. It wasn't until after the third round that I heard another loud roar. The footsteps behind came to a halt. I continued running till I reached the open area once again.

I was out of breath, but I knew I couldn't stop. The thing was sure to continue its pursuit soon, so I couldn't waste any time. Before I could fully gain my composure, I heard footsteps heading my direction. They weren't from the tunnel behind me, but ahead. I quickly ready my gun, ready to fire again. Three figures emerged from the darkness, racing frantically.

"'you see other church members. "'Well, I'd already fired four bullets, "'which meant I only had two left. "'There were three of them, "'so I'd have to decide carefully "'who I wanted to shoot. "'They came to a halt in front of me. "'Hello, Marcus.'

"'I heard Margaret's voice speak out from the three. "'Have you finally stopped running?' "'Back the fuck off,' I yelled. "'The gun's still pointing at them. "'I have to. "'I will kill you, crazy bastards. I heard one of them giggle. It must have been Sophia. They slowly began edging their way towards me. I backed up a little, keeping the gun trained on them. They started to shift

to the side, hoping to align the next tunnel to my back. It's clear this gun was doing nothing for me. I'd probably have enough time to shoot one before the others rushed in. I need to be quick so I could make a run for it. "'Come now, Marcus. Haven't you realized it yet?' "'You really think we invited you all the way out here just to install some silly computers?' Margaret began. "'I was stunned when I heard this. "'What the hell are you talking about? Why else would I be here?'

She chuckled. "'We needed a legitimate reason to get you out here, and here you are.' "'You don't even know who I am,' I said. she was clearly talking nonsense. Is that what you think? I'm surprised none of this appears familiar to you. You have, after all, been down this path before, she continued. My hands slowly lowered the gun.

I don't know why, but a small portion of me believed, even if it did sound ridiculous. What do you mean? That's Larnius. He's always had a fascination with you, she answered. "'Something about you,' she started to say, but trailed in her words. "'What about me?' I demanded. Before she could answer, a large figure bolted from the shadows, pouncing on Margaret.

It was that horrid creature from earlier. It had caught up. Now, among the dim candlelights, I could make out more of its features. Oh, I really wish those candles weren't there. Through the poor lighting I could see its thin elongated arms with sharp talons for fingers. Massive horns extended from its back. His loose wild hair fell across its crude snout of her face, its blood-coloured eyes glowed, piercing the darkness. I watched as it began tearing into Margaret as it had terrance.

With each new sound of splitting flesh came a louder shrill from her. Her loud cries bounced off the walls. extending throughout the tunnels. The others attempted to flee, but they didn't get far. The creature was merciless, pouncing on them and tearing into them in the same manner. Suddenly I felt a harsh tug on my arm, pulling me down the tunnel behind.

It was the old woman. I didn't know where she'd come from, but I didn't question her. The tormented screams of the others continue to resonate in the air. The burning pain in my lungs returned as we ran and ran. The old woman yelled back not to stop. I could hear the struggling her voice as well to maintain the pace. There seemed to be no end to the tunnel. It felt like we were running in place, making no progress.

In the midst of my exhaustion, I felt my foot drag, causing me to lose my balance. I fell hard, slamming onto my already injured knee. Get up! Get up now! the old woman screamed at me. I tried but struggled to do so, caught in the blend of pain and exhaustion. I tried to pull myself up using the wall. Behind me I could hear the rapid thumping of large footsteps once again. I could feel the old woman helped me up. She threw me over her shoulder and began assisting me forward. However, it was too late. We could feel the gaze emanating from the creature behind us. our ice must have fully adjusted in the dark because I could clearly make out its massive form

his hot breath blew across our faces the smell of fresh blood lingering on it the old woman pushed me away run now she said softly what i replied in shock no we have to stick together no you must go i'll hold it off she stated firmly but i started go she roared her voice startled me quickly turned and began hobbling away behind me I could still hear her ah you foul demon you think you've won she stated the creature rendered a harsh snarl in return I could hear her begin to recite strange words in another language the creature sounded affected screaming loud roars of pain whatever she was saying it was

clearly working. I paused to look back, just making out their faint outlines in the dark. I wondered if what she was doing was actually going to stop it. However, I saw the creature swing one of its long arms at her, and her body flew against the wall, producing a sickening crack. Her words instantly died. Not long after I could hear the thing ripping away at her. The blower must have been enough to kill her because she didn't yell in pain. I went from hopping aggressively on one foot to a full-fledged run. I ignored the pain from my knee, feeling fear and adrenaline engulf me. Up ahead I could see a light from the end. I knew I didn't have much time until that thing would continue its pursuit of me. I reached the opening, revealing the original ritual area

I'd first come across. I was hesitant in approaching the perch, but I did so, looking down. Victoria was still down there. Based on her increased wails, it wouldn't be long before she gave birth. I saw no trace of the Reverend. I made my way downstairs, approaching the symbol surrounding Victoria. Up close I could tell they were made from blood. The bowls were still blazing. The heat from them was intense, forcing sweat down my face. When I approached Victoria, her eyes fell upon me. I could see the fear returning in them. Stay, stay the fuck away from me, she yelled, struggling with words. I was taken aback by this, but I remembered I was still wearing the mask. I quickly removed it and was much relieved to see her eyes light up upon seeing my face.

Marcus, she gasped. Yeah, I'm here, Victoria, I answered, rushing to her side. Tears form in her eyes. Marcus, please. She stopped in mid-sentence, rendering another whale. She continued screaming. I could hear her vocals become rasps from the strain.

I didn't know what to do. A massive lump moved around her stomach uncontrollably, pressing up against her skin. I didn't think it was possible, but her screams grew even louder. I felt completely useless right now. Just when I thought it couldn't get any worse, it had a familiar roar from above. The creature from earlier had returned. I could see its

burning red eyes beaming down from the perch. It leapt from the top, landing with a loud thud. His disturbing form was hunched over, breathing a rapid rhythm, exulting a snarl in between. Now fully in the light, I felt my stomach tightened at its appearance. The thought of the statue came to my mind. The thing was almost a spitting image of it, but only worse. His face was more disturbing in person with his blackened, humanoid dog features. The nose atop its snout appeared caved in, flaring with its breathing. Its eyes were beady, completely dyed a crimson red. Atop its forehead, it held a large, closed eye. I stood in between Victoria and the Beast. I wasn't going to let this thing do anything to her.

I raised the gun up ready to fire, waiting for it to make a move. Yet, that was it. It did nothing. It just stood there, breathing. Come on, I yelled, trying to provoke it. Do it. Come at me, you sick fun. It still did nothing.

Instead, the edge of its lips curled up into a twisted smile. I've heard a shiver roll down my spine. The damn thing was smiling at me. I was ready to fire the gun, but then I noticed the bullet holes on it from where I'd hit it previously. Two of the bullets had managed to hit it, but they stuck out of its wounds, barely penetrating it. It was useless. The gun did nothing to it. Realising this, I lowered it, eventually letting it drop to the ground.

When I did, its smile grew wider. "'What the hell are you?' I asked. "'That's my boy,' I heard the reverend's voice, answer out loud. "'Slanius, the wide eye of time. "'I could hear him behind me, but I didn't dare break my eyes away from the creature. "'He will become this world's new master,' he continued. "'I was speeches. "'You all will witness his rebirth into this world, Marcus.

He will shape it in his image. Now, witness it, the reverend went on. As if on cue the creature began to roar into the air. I could see the rose of its blood-covered teeth extend deep back into its throat. It felt as if the whole room was rumbling. Suddenly it collapsed under the ground, lying motionless. I was confused. Did it just die?

If it did, what killed it? Victoria broke the silence. screaming at a level a human shouldn't have possibly reached. The form within her moved around vigorously, eventually tearing its way free. Blood flew in all directions, some spattering across me. My eyes turned to see a blood-soaked creature wallowing around in the remains of Victoria.

It looked to be the size of a dog. I could see the sharp talons from one of its lanky arms cling to the side of the table. Curling horns protruded from its... head entangled in the wild strands of its hair it sniffed the air for a while before turning its attention to me i felt tears forming in my eyes immediately i felt my stomach give in hurling to the side it hurt because i'd already done so earlier and there was nothing left to give leaning over the mess i produced i could only think of one thing victoria i whispered in the end of the end of the end I couldn't do anything but watch her suffer. She had trusted me to save her, and I'd failed her.

The creature looked like a miniature version of its previous self. However, its third eye was open this time. It was completely white, void of pupil, blinking asynchronously to its smaller ones. Despite having no pupil, I could feel its white eye gazing upon me. My head began buzzing, starting as a simple vibration. while the vibration escalated into an immense outpour of pain. I could see images in my head. There were images of places in the world, of people. The people were screaming for their lives.

The sky above them was black. The streets littered with thousands of bodies lying lifeless and torn to pieces. Fires were brewing over damaged cars with half-burnt corpses sitting in their seats. Faces of horrendous beings, too atrocious to describe. and was seen everywhere tearing away at those unable to escape the images flooded my head i was at the mercy of them as the pain increased the more they appeared tears fell endlessly from my eyes why was i being shown these horrible things just when i thought i couldn't take any more they stopped i slumped over still feeling my head throb i could still see their faces hear their screams

Did you see it, Marcus? Did you see the dream he produced in your mind? The Reverend asked. He walked from the shadows into the light. He slowly removed the mask from his face. What the hell was that? I asked. I could still feel lingering amounts of the pain.

Oh, it took many years to prepare this revitalization. First he had to get stronger, and to do so he needed a vessel to use. Art too was frightened when I first laid eyes about. upon him but he showed me his intentions and from then I was enlightened he explained he speaks to me with his wide eyes that's how I knew everything about you back there I'm sure he gave you a glimpse of the paradise to be he continues walking up to me paradise I repeated still in a daze is that what the fuck you're calling that yes Lanius will reshape this world into his

image. Imagine sweet blue skies, endless green pastures with trees flowing abundantly with scrumptious fruits. No more pain, no more suffering, a truly renewed Eden. Oh, I know it's hard to conceive of all this, but how could we in the current world we live in? His power is beyond our understanding, but it can open the ripples of time. He can alter what he likes, insert what he likes. With it, he can return to the past of the vessel he chooses. Each time he possesses the younger self, growing with them until they come of age. Doing it repeatedly makes him stronger. When he finally reaches fruition, he needs to be born of human flesh. He went on. Victoria, I said. Correct. Now is that time, Marcus. Once he does it again, this will be the last.

He will be permanently infused with his new vessel. he answered revealing his twisted toothy smile you i asked still feeling the throb in my head come now marcus i've merely been a humble servant ensuring everything was arranged properly for his rebirth lanius has always been interested in you you recall the pages of the tongue yeah who do you think that was with lanius i shook my hands head in disbelief. It didn't make sense. There's no way it could have been me. You're lying. That's impossible. If so, why me? Well, you see, Marcus, Lannius sees all aspects of time, all possibilities. Out of everyone, he saw you to be the best candidate to lead the outcome he desired. You should feel honored, he explained. I don't understand, I repeated. You said he's always been using me, but I don't recall any of those times at all. Well, of course you don't mark us, he said, smiling.

Each time, Lannius removed your memory after transferring to your younger body. Believe it or not, we've already had this conversation before. I only recall because he allows me to. You see, I'm the one ensuring everything goes as planned accordingly. You all go back, as you have done before. But this time, it'll be for good. I'm sorry to say, though. What is left of Marcus pale will be no more.

I found myself shaking my head again. I couldn't believe it. I didn't want to believe it. Please, Marcus, he continues. Each time we go through this little charade, I try to give you a chance to let you willingly come forward, but as always, you fight it. How about switching it up for a change and give in?

It's inevitable regardless. He finished. What'll it be, Marcus? I remained in silence, trying to absorb everything. It was too much. How could it possibly all be true? There was no way of telling otherwise.

It seemed like a lose-lose situation. I think, I started to answer. You are full of shit. I said it, rendering a light smirk. His eyes seemed to twitch with dissatisfaction. How very disappointed, he said, turning his back. I could see his hand move into his clothes. He turned around, producing a gun in his hand.

He fired the weapon, missing me. I quickly threw myself to the ground, grabbing my own gun. I pointed and shot off around just as he did. His shot had grazed my side, only piercing my cloak. My shot, however, had hit him in the leg. He fell to the ground. Immediately he proceeded to lift his gun, struggling to aim it at me. I walked over to him, keeping my own pointed at him. Standing over him, I held it to his face.

He smiled at me before dropping his own in defeat. You think this hasn't already happened, Marcus. It's inevitable, he said, the smile growing wider on his face. I didn't answer and simply pull back on the trigger. His body immediately went limp. I remained over him with the gun still pointing at it. I never thought killing someone would be so satisfying. I didn't really like this thought though. There was something about it, about this place. Whatever it was, I was ready to leave it. Unexpectedly, felt the same painful pulse from earlier flood my head. I fell to my knees, gripping my head. When I turned, I could see the creature crawl from the table, dragging its deformed, limp legs. It snarled at me, moving.

close in speed. I held my gun in my hand and pulled the trigger, but it only clicked. I repeated the action only to receive the same result. It was empty. Quickly I reached over with my other hand and grabbed the reverence gun. Yet it was too late. The thing pounced on me. These slimy hands gripped my neck. I feel its hot putrid breath on my face and see pieces of flesh clung to its jagged teeth. I wanted to throw the damn thing off, but I could feel the pain in my head amplify. It was hard to describe, but I could feel its presence within my mind. It was like it was searching for something. It wasn't until the last minute that I could visually see what it had found.

Immediately we were both engulfed into a blinding light out of nowhere. When the light cleared, I found myself lying in something cold. When I stood to my feet, I realized it was snow. There was snow everywhere. Where was I? I looked around seeing cars covered in snow as well. Several buildings loomed around me all with something in common. Decorations.

They all had reaves and lights, either on their doors or around the buildings. Christmas? How could that be? I mean, it was July. Something about this area was familiar, but I didn't know why. The building before me was fairly tall, maybe four stories. Something about it drew me towards it. Through the glass I could see my reflection.

I could see that horrifying mask over my face. How did it get back on my face? I also noticed both of the guns still in my hands. I can't describe it, but I felt lightheaded. I could hardly recall what I'd been doing prior to arriving here. In fact, I didn't even remember where I got this cloak from. I felt the urge to enter the building. I took the guns away and entered.

Inside I noticed several closed doors along with a staircase to the side. This must have been an apartment building. I couldn't pull myself from this feeling, letting it take me to the stairs. I began climbing, passing more doors on each floor, each with their own set of reefs and other things Christmas related. With each floor I tried searching for some hint of why I was here. I continued upward until reaching the third floor. I was led to a door on the left, Mark 3A.

Why was I brought here? I felt my hand lift as if it had a mind of its own. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't gain control over it. It banged on the door. Inside I could hear people moving towards the entrance. Next I felt my hand reached back into my cloak, pulling out the revolver. Fear filled my eyes. Why was I grabbing the gun?

I wanted to warn the person inside not to open the door. but my mouth wouldn't obey either. To my horror, I listened as the bolt unlocked and the door opened. My eyes could not comprehend the sight before me. The person in front of me was my father. He looked very young, more so than the last time I'd seen him, but it was him. How was this possible? Without warning my hand struck him across the face.

Next my leg kicked him in the back. The woman inside gave off an ear-splitting scream in shock. It was the young face of my real mother. She was alive. But how? The apartment was heavily decorated to suit the Christmas atmosphere. It had a tree nicely decorated with presents piled underneath. I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity to what was transpiring before me.

Again my hand moved without command, shutting the door and locking the bolts. It pointed the gun at my parents. fear engulfing their eyes why are you doing this my father asked gripping his head what do you want i wanted to answer but could not to my side i heard a soft voice i looked over and saw a young child playing with a book it was me i was actually in the presence of my younger self i felt a strong force vibrating through my head feeling it filter out it was odd but it looked almost like the fumes of gasoline flowing towards my younger self. It suddenly hit me. I felt a partial memory return. I record the words of the reverence. This was happening to be because of that thing, Larnius.

It was inside me controlling my actions. It needed to take over my younger self for its vessel. I could feel its presence vacating my body, watching it flood into my younger self. My parents probably couldn't see it. only me I could not let this happen I was not about to become one with the thing for the rest of my life concentrating I attempted to move my hand the one with the gun was solid and unmovable the finger in that hand began moving on its own accord I could feel it tightened on the trigger the gun was still aimed at my mother why was it doing this why was it trying to kill my

mother in the process I made every attempt to stop my hand but it wouldn't listen. I was ready to give in until my mind had another lapse in memory. I recalled having a dream. It was similar to what was happening now, but slightly different though. I tried to focus, attempting to recall more of the dream. For some reason it was so hard to do so. I didn't know why, but it felt necessary to remember it. More pieces began to come together. In the dream I saw myself fire the gun, but it wasn't at my mother. No, I shot myself, the younger me. It was puzzling that I'd done this. Another piece of the dream came to me. There was a bright light, and in the light was a face. I could recall the face this time.

It was a smiling face of my mother. She was completely encased in the light as if the source of it. At that moment, I understood everything. I knew what I needed to do. I attempted to concentrate on my other hand, focusing on the image of it moving to my command, hoping the thought would render it. I could gradually feel my body control returning. Somehow the more the creature left me,

the more I gained feeling in my body. I concentrated on moving my arm, feeling its mobility. With it I reached down into my cloak and felt around until I recognized the object. I pulled out the second gun, aiming it at my younger self. My mother before me led out a loud shriek when she saw this. I could feel parts of my arm wanting to drop the gun, but I fought against it, aiming it at the child.

The creature must have picked up on my plan because it started to flood images through my head again. This time there are of people that I'd known or would come to know. My friends, my loved ones, everyone. It was like it was trying to get me to understand the consequences if I continued with my action. I could see its fumes attempting to pump faster into my younger body. Finally, I saw the last of them completely enter my younger self. My one-year-old self stared at me innocently. This moment had made sense now. I could picture the dream that brought me into all of this. This foul creature had controlled me for the last

time. All this time it had been me who had been the executioner of my own mother. I was the monster, the crazy lunar that had broken in all those years ago. No, he made me that crazy loon. He altered time. I was the closest person to help him realize his plan. However, the creature probably saw in all the infinite possibilities of time that my mother was the only threat to his plans. I laughed myself. It was ironic that even in death, she found a way to warn me, providing an escape boot. Lanius' own, tearing through time and space, had back fired. In its own attempt to fulfill its ambition, it ended up creating its own demise. It couldn't stop the human spirit. It was powerless against love. My mother's interference was like what the

reverend had said verbatim. Inevitable. I smiled to myself, squeezing back on the trigger. The bullet pierced through the child's skull, instantly dropping him. Now dead, I could feel the control of my body returned. It was as if a heavy aura of weight had lifted from me. Sighing deeply, I dropped the gun to the ground. Slowly I removed the mask from my face, looking over at my parents. They were silent, with eyes still fixated on their dead child. Finally, my mother turned her gaze to me.

I smiled at her, watching her eyes grow wide at seeing my face. With tears forming in my eyes, I could feel a hint of pain growing across my forehead. Something warm began to run down my nose. My eyes looked deep into my mother's as I spoke several words. I'm sorry, I had to. I did you a favour. Forgive me. And so once again, we reach the end of tonight's podcast.

My thanks as always to the authors of those wonderful stories. and to you for taking the time to listen. Now, I'd ask one small favor of you. Wherever you get your podcast wrong, please write a few nice words and leave a five-star review as it really helps the podcast. That's it for this week,

but I'll be back again, same time, same place, and I do so hope you'll join me once more. Until next time, sweet dreams and bye-bye.