Star dug her fingernails into the sides of her head and screamed in pain, struggling to block out the awful voice. The creature’s face was so white that it was nearly green and had the shape of an inverted tear. Black robes hung upon it so that no other part of the creature was revealed, save its long, gnarled fingers. In horror, Star realized that she desired to hear more from the creature. “We can help each other, you and I,” the piercing voice continued. Star turned to run, but the creature also stood directly behind her. “If you come with me–” the voice offered and Star, spinning around to seek an escape, discovered that the creature was blocking her path no matter which way she faced. Understanding that the ogre trail had been a ruse, Star chose the path that would lead her back to the river and rushed at the creature. She ran right through it, as though it were a mere apparition.
After stumbling through the forest for hours, Star arrived at the river and collapsed with a sob. She had not only lost a day on the ogres, but the…whateveritwas that she was battling with had such powers as to be able to invade her mind. What a fool she was to believe that she could rescue her siblings on her own. No, worse yet–she had believed she was better suited to the task than her Aunt. Musing on her shortcomings, Star suddenly heard something moving in the forest. It was coming toward her fast.
