The forsaken forest

The ominous land is shrouded in darkness. All the stars are hidden behind the heavy clouds just like the moon. A strong north wind blows into Alana's ears. Growling like a hungry wolf, thunder rolls slowly over the hills. Icy raindrops pour down from the sky.

"This emotional journey never seems to end," Alana exclaims depressed. Her heavy head seems to be pushing away the last bit of courage she has. Several pain signals shoot through her body, coming from the various injuries and bruises. Hopelessly she tries to encourage Daydream. It's too late to give up. The old trees cast scary stark shadows on the pair. Winding branches play with her imagination. "The forest" she whispers. "Dark as ever." A bright lightning makes Alana jump in the saddle. Surprised by the sudden flash, she ticks Daydream in his stomach wall, causing the noble animal to race through the forest. Daydream has his ears flat against his head. His diamond eyes dart back and forth nervously. Finally, the time has come. The moment they both know... there's no escape. Whining, she removes her broken wrist from the saddle. "Daydream easy, I only have one hand." "The roused animal seems to completely shut itself off from her. The tensions, the robbers, Rodehanthe, witches...everything had made them both... So traumatized.

"Daydream" Alana groans as he takes a tight turn and jumps over a fallen stump. Its sharp horn glows faintly from the lightning among the dark trees. When lightning strikes an old oak next to them, Daydream, the ever so brave animal that has gone through worse storms, throws its front legs into the air at her side." Daydream" Alana yells protesting. "Calm down boy. Together we'll get through this, remember" Daydream softly breathes. "Together."

Crackling, the burning oak lights up the dark forest, showing a hungry beast. Using the distraction, he jumps towards the rider. "Daydream" Alana squeaks hastily when she feels the saddle slide away from under her. Alana lands on the wet floor with a thud. Pain races down her spine as it lands. "Little One" roars Daydream and stomps defensively at the silver beast. "Daydream" she moans. The mythical creature equipped with two dangerous heads growls and snaps at Daydream's leg. The animal hastily dodges, after which Daydream turns to Alana again. "Daydream" Alana roars as the hungry animal sinks its teeth into Daydream's strong shoulder. "Little one," Daydream whispers angrily. "I take this beast away from you, reach the king...without me. Go!"

"Daydream no I can't do this without you. It can't be true, that I'm losing you" Alana whispers weakly and lifts her pounding head. Blasts of pain shoot down her back and head as she watches Daydream run madly into the forest. Her head falls down again. She feels her body soft giving up. By every minute that goes by she grows weaker. The pain rises, her heart breaks and tears stream over her face.

Alana swallows and stares at the spinning canopy above her. "Daydream" she whispers. "Little one. we have defeated the beast." "No Daydream" "Together" "Daydream please, take strength from me." "Even your heart isn't big enough for both of us... little one." Tears stream down Alana's face. "Where are you?" "I'll always be with you... little one... Together." Sounds again and his voice fades. Alana swallows and cries loudly. She doesn't care anymore. "Daydream, I won't let you slip away from me" she whispers and tries to reach her mind towards his. "Little one, hold on, be strong. I promise, I am here. Don't you fear. Little one, don't let go." Alana swallows. She wants to answer him but her voice is gone. She can't form words anymore. She can't open her eyes anymore...

For a moment she hears the burning oak crackle, the thunder rumble and the rain tap into her face, then it becomes quiet...