I jolted awake, gasping for air as beads of sweat trickled down my skin despite the cool night breeze. Just before waking, I had a dream—or perhaps a vision—the same one about the red wolf and me riding on its back.
This time it felt different because, in the vision, I saw Praya screaming in pain, and the sound of her agonizing screams echoed in my mind, waking me up immediately.
It had felt too real, like she had screamed directly in my ear.
Something at the back of my mind urged me to go downstairs and check on her. Slipping into my flip-flops, I hurried down the stairs, my heart beating rapidly in my chest. When I got to the living room, my heart dropped when there was no sign of her or anyone else in the room.
There was one place to check, and I had a strong feeling I was going to find her there. Without hesitation, I swung the entrance door open, and the cold night breeze immediately sent shivers down my spine. Preparing for what lay ahead, I clutched my robe tightly and darted into the night.
Surrounded by darkness, the only source of light came from the full bright moon hanging still in the night sky. A sense of apprehension washed over me, but I wasn't going to let that stop me from getting to my destination.
Driven by determination, I ran as fast as I could, my heart pounding wildly and my breaths escaping in heavy rhythmic bursts.
Praya needed my help desperately. I could feel it, and I was ready to help her in whatever way I could.