NEVER AGAIN

ARIANNE POV

Fight!

The word echoed in my mind, loud and commanding. My eyes snapped open, and the room shifted around me, the oppressive darkness replaced by a blinding, searing light.

The fire in the distant fireplace roared to life, its flames climbing higher and higher until they licked the ceiling, casting wild, dancing shadows across the walls. 

"Arianne!" A familiar voice suddenly called out. 

My breath came out in sharp pants as I searched around me but a face leaned down on me but it was blurry and dark, so dark. No, no, no, I need to leave. I need to get out of here! I need to get back to my family. 

I stood up from the bed, groaning in pain as I fell down to the ground. Hands reached for me but I smacked it away. 

"Arianne, stop!" the voice called again, firm but desperate.