Emme looked around. The room was filled with black robed figures whose faces were hidden behind conical hats. One of them shut the door and the rest stood behind a woman in a blood red robe. Emme sucked in a deep breath. Her heart pounded and her entire body tingled. This can’t be happening.

“Esmaralda Gossling, step forward.” The woman in center of room whispered as she stepped forward.

The others formed a circle around the two of them. She started to shake. Another hooded figure took a step forward but was stopped by the woman in red. Emme gasped.

“Do not be afraid, Esmeralda. You have been called.” The woman in red crossed to her and extended her hand. Emme moved back but didn’t get far as the circle closed in further.

Continue reading at Out of the Shadows