Page 80 of After Darkness Falls

One more step. And another one. A third…

She felt it when she hit the barrier. Ahead of her was an old staircase carved into the stone so long ago it almost looked like a natural slide. It wasn't. Around the staircase was an open doorway leading down into the darkness. Inscriptions that Chloe couldn’t read were written all around them. But between the door and her was an immaterial, shimmery wall that made everything seem darker on the other side.

She'd learned enough of magic to be wary. This could mean death. The person who dared pass might disintegrate on contact, or worse.

She looked behind her to the empty path. Her ears, so much more efficient now, could still hear the vampires on the main path. Arguing. They didn't want to follow her, knowing what awaited.

"Can you imagine going to the queen and telling her we didn't follow that trail because we were scared of a monster long turned to stone—if he ever existed? We have to go."

"After you, then."

"I know. Let's call the beasts. If the ferals make it…"

She looked back at the wall.

"Whatever luck I've had until now, please, please don't let me down."

She'd never said anything that resembled a prayer as much as this.

Chloe stepped forward.

Nothing. The barrier did…nothing.

She'd gone beyond.

Chloe would have laughed, if she had the energy. And if she hadn't realized something else: the wall hadn't been erected to prevent things from goingin.

She walked forward, calling down the stairs.

"Hello?"

No answer, just the whisper of the wind.

She sighed in relief.

Well, she couldn't very well stay here, in any case; anyone walking the path would see her.

She started to walk down the steps, careful not to trip on the slippery rock.

Tired as she was, the descent seemed to take forever, but she finally arrived in an empty, dark, and damp chamber carved in the belly of the mountain.

She looked around and, finding nothing, slumped on the floor, throwing her head back.

Finally. Rest. Now if she could only close her eyes…

"Don't."

Chloe froze. There was nothing around. Her vision was clear, even in the darkness, and she didn't see anyone at all.

"Don't close your eyes, little daughter. You're already fading from this world."

She got to her feet with great effort and walked to the center of the room, looking around.

"Where are you?"

"Not far."

"Why can't I see you?"

---