AllFreeNovel
Share Us
M’ijel heard my comment and glanced back at what had so grabbed my attention.
Before I could delve deeper into my thoughts, I was abruptly lifted from my contemplations.
M’ijel, who had been both a fearsome presence and an unexpected protector, shifted my position in his arms. With a sense of urgency, he carried me away from the scene of the recent battle, leaving behind the enigmatic golden gem that continued to glow ominously amidst the debris.
As we ventured deeper into the maze, the image of the pulsating gem lingered in my mind. It felt like a significant clue in this alien environment, a piece of a larger, yet unfathomable puzzle.
Yet, at that moment, our immediate survival took precedence over unraveling the mysteries of this strange, hostile world. In this labyrinth, I was forced to rely on the protection of a being that oscillated between being my guardian… and a source of immense danger.
Part Two
The Save Point
M’ijel
Holding Zoey securely in my arms, I feel her struggle against my grip. Her resistance is understandable but futile; my strength is far greater.
I growl softly, not in aggression but in an attempt to communicate the urgency of our predicament. “Stay quiet,” I urge her in a low tone. “Any noise might draw the others to us.”
My frustration is tinged with concern for our safety.
Her response is laced with fear and defiance. “Then let me go!” she snaps.
I growl again, more softly this time. “I can’t,” I admit, the words heavy with a truth I’m still coming to terms with.
“Why not?” she demands.
Glancing down at my arms, I notice the transformation taking place once again. My fur recedes, revealing the blue scales of my true form.
Zoey’s eyes widen slightly in surprise, maybe even a flicker of relief. It’s a small but significant shift in her demeanor.
“I promise, I won’t harm you,” I assure her,my voice growing steadier as I return to my true self. “I’ll explain everything — at least as much as I understand it.”
Despite her understandable lack of trust, she seems to relax slightly.
We journey onward, eventually discovering a lake fed by a thunderous waterfall. The roar of the falling water seems even louder due to the stark quiet of the maze.
I carry her behind the waterfall into a hidden cave, where the cool mist lightly caresses our skin, offering a momentary escape from the labyrinth’s dangers.
Once inside, I gently set Zoey down. “We should be safe here,” I tell her, scanning the shadows cautiously.
But as soon as I release her, she bolts, vanishing into the cave’s darkness. I hesitate, contemplating pursuit, but something within holds me back.
If trust is an unattainable luxury in this twisted game, if understanding is a bridge too far, then what are our chances?
With a heavy heart, I let her go. Standing alone in the cave’s dim light, I’m haunted by the realization that our fates, entwined in this nightmare, are more precarious than ever.
Zoey
As I hobble towards the shelter of the waterfall, my ankle throbbing with each step, my thoughts are a whirlwind of emotions. I’ve escaped M’ijel’s grasp, the enigmatic being who has been both my shield and source of fear in this labyrinth.
Looking back, I see him standing motionless, a picture of forlorn defeat. It’s surreal to witness such a powerful figure appear so despondent.
Hesitating at the cave’s entrance, hidden behind the waterfall’s veil, I’m torn. Despite my fear and reservations, M’ijel is the only one in this eerie maze who hasn’t tried to hurt me.
Yes, there was that time in the Wendy house… but he controlled himself — which is a lot more than those other monsters ever showed!
His actions, though intimidating, have been oddly protective. This realization stirs a firm conflict within me.
