Hearing nothing she began to breathe again. “Illiyana.â€? Despite herself, Illiyana screamed. The husky voice came from across the room. “Shhh…â€?
“Who are you? Where are you?â€? Illiyana called into the darkness. She meant for her voice to be full of authority, instead it sounded soft and weak.
“Do you fear death, Illiyana?â€? The voice came again. This time it came from right beside her.
“Please don’t hurt me!â€? Again, her voice coming out in a small whisper. Fear made her shiver as she pushed impossibly closer to the wall. “Please…â€?
“Do you fear death, Illiyana?â€? A strong calloused hand caressed her face, making her jump. “Do you?â€?
“Of course I fear death.â€? She whispered, calmer now, strangely comforted by the touch. The raging pain she felt, soothed somehow. She relaxed her tightened position, but didn’t move from the wall.
“There is no need. No need for fear. No need for death. If you had that option, would you choose it?â€?
“I… I don’t understand.â€? The hand left her face, but only to have it placed on her belly.