Chapter 23: The Rebels

Finally.

With the horizon being obscured by the crude structures of the large city, Olisnia sighs softly. She shifts atop the horse she rides.

“I am finally here.” She gently pats the nape of the animal, smiling. “Thank you for taking me this far.”

As they near the side of the city, Olisnia glances up at the structures. Her mind begins to wander, flashes of her dreams swirling together. The rough architecture, the stench of the gutter, and the terrified gazes of the citizens as she passes; they are all proven real from her dream.

“Yes, it is exactly as in my dream. I will find her here.” She relaxes her tense shoulders and stares straight ahead. “I will find her soon.”

As she crosses the threshold of the city, a vision bombards her mind, blinding her. Agony shoots through her body, pulsating behind her eyes. A golden wave blocks her from seeing much else, but she is able to hear anguished cries and feel the heat of flames licking at her skin.