Chapter 2: Chapter 1
To those unafraid of taking a chance, I shall properly introduce myself. My name is Laura Cempage, a young girl that wasn't afraid of taking a chance or going the distance. I was born upon a stormy night in early October, my body frail but vibrant light the warm sun. You could say that I was born in two different worlds, and you're rather correct, both east and west. For the West, I was born in a place you know now as the proud city that never slept: New York City. But, it's not the New York City that you know today. There were no structures that attempted to reach the high heavens or clean streets where not a single puff of smoke was present in the air. Instead, the world I knew was dark and grotesque but in the tennant where I remained as a child, it was kept clean enough to keep me going with a vibrant smile. Yet, for the east, that was where the strangeness came from. My surname, you claim, wasn't part of anything that seemed familiar to your ear or tongue. Instead, it was a name that was derived from the term 'champagne', Cempage, was the surname of my father, who came from that French countryside but was part of the American lifestyle of an everyday bachelor. Well, that was until meeting my beloved mother, a woman from the city but had a passion to swoon the bachelor heart to shreds. The two of them loved each other endlessly and had me as their only daughter. As much as my father wished to own a son, no son was to be born no more. My mother remained alive but complications got in her way. A daughter was enough to bear not only for happiness but also a responsibility later in life to carry the bloodline. A girl, during my time, wasn't allowed to carry such vicious tasks like how your women would accomplish running large businesses full of your technology, own such rights of their own body, or even opinion in business or politics. It was hard labor but when I begin this tale, little one, I was only nothing but a little girl. A little girl that only wished to impress her loving parents by making sure that they smiled when seeing me. Cliche as it is, but no one could ever replace me. My parents loved me unconditionally but for now, as a child, everything would begin to crumble and, only myself, begin to conjure the tales from my backstory.
~~~
August 25th, 1824
Little Apollo was playing with me again and I was happy to be with him. I knew playing Grandpa's little Apollo was fun from the little strings to the happy tune I played with the bow. I keep forgetting how heavy a violin like Little Apollo could be against my body. Yes, he was light, but also heavy when pressing his bow against his strings. Grandpa would've been happy to be seeing me play with Apollo after so long. Every time I play him, I always think of him. I'm still sad since I never got to meet him but Mommy would say that if I played with Apollo, I'd be able to know what he was like. I was in my room, like how Grandpa was when he was alive with Mommy dancing beside him. I smiled a little as the memory danced in my head. Yet, for now, I was hoping Grandpa would be able to hear a pretty song I was working on for the last few weeks. It was a song that Mommy would hum, or more of someone else I knew a lot. Apollo was old but never gave up. I even heard that if the violin aged, it'd sound even prettier than the last year. So, Apollo was singing his very best for me and I wanted to not only make myself happy but also everyone around me.
From time to time, the neighbors would pop their heads to see a little brown and orange haired girl playing her pretty violin. Mommy and Daddy, if they were here, would usually let them visit for a little bit just to see me perform. I would get carried away and dance around the room. From old people to little kids around my age, they would join along, clap, or even cheer me on. Well, there would be certain times that they wouldn't like me playing Apollo because it would be late. I would listen to them but wouldn't sometimes because I was doing a good job. I would usually put on a fit and rebel but stop since I was making Mommy and Daddy not happy.
For now, Apollo's bow was moving faster and faster against his strings thanks to my arm. I was trying to pick up the notes but Apollo's bow jumped from my hand. "Hey!" I placed Apollo on my bed and ran after it, "You're not going to leave me." This was the fifth time this week that the bow left my fingers and ran away from me. I opened my bedroom door and ran through the hallway that went to the kitchen. "Get back over here!" I ran to the kitchen and found Apollo's bow near the stove. I smelled food in the oven and more food being cooked on the stove. I grew angry at Apollo's bow landing near the stove and headed for it. Just when I was about to grab it, I was pulled away from it and lifted into the air. I screamed in shock and found myself with Auntie May-May. Her long yellow hair was tied back into a bun with a few of her hairs falling out of it and her blue-green eyes gave me a mad look. I was scared but I knew what I did wrong. "Laura, what're you doing here in the kitchen? Don't you know that I'm working on supper now?" She set my feet back on the wood floor and crossed her arms. I made her mad and I looked away, "I'm sorry, Aunt May-May. Apollo made me lose his bow again." I pointed at the oven where Apollo's bow was lying.
She looked at the oven and then at Apollo's bow, and then me. She lost her angry face and picked up Apollo's bow, "You better not make him chase his bow. You know how your Grandpa would be if he found out you almost cooked Apollo's prized bow."
For Auntie May-May, I knew her for a long time. She's been a best friend to me but also to Mommy and Daddy. But for Mommy, they knew each other more than I could imagine. They were around my age when meeting each other and were close like sisters. While Mommy and Daddy were away, she took care of me. She also cooked and cleaned our home too. She was really nice and I liked it. Yet, there were times she would get angry. This was one of them.
"Keep this going and Apollo won't be able to sing for you." She gave me my bow and I took it from her hands. She kept a hard smile while I thanked her and she was curious too, "Are you still working on that song?" I nodded with a big grin, "Yes!" "Well, keep going, and you'll be okay." She kissed my forehead but I grew a little bit sad, "Are Mommy and Daddy going to be okay? Will they show up in time for supper?" I looked outside and it was getting dark. The sun was going to sleep and the moon was going to be up soon. Auntie May-May went to one of the windows and opened them, "They'll be coming home soon. Don't worry about them. You know how much they work just to keep you happy."
I knew Mommy and Daddy worked long hours and I didn't like it. I wished for them to come home so they would see their loving daughter. I heard Mommy singing and Daddy playing the piano. Together, they were a pretty match. I wanted them to be happy as well. Down below from our home were the loud streets of New York and I tried to say 'good evening' to each one of the workers coming and going. Auntie May-May pulled me back inside, "You lean too far and you'll be nothing but a splat." She ran back to the kitchen and pulled out a large pot full of yummy food. I wanted to open the large pot but she hit my hand lightly and scolded me. I smelled yummy veggies and meat inside. I licked my lips with a big grin against my face. I sat at the table while looking at the hot pot holding dinner. I remember Auntie May-May going to the market earlier this morning and then making dinner all morning while we ate breakfast. For now, I had to wait and I didn't like waiting.
~~~
The moon was outside to say 'hello' and I was happy to see it. Mommy and Daddy came home after a long day and wanted to sleep together. I, on the other hand, watched the night sky. The stars were shining like little jewels on Mommy's necklaces and bracelets. I smiled a little as they were dancing like how Mommy and Daddy did when they were in love.
Yet, I heard something clattering outside and it made me curious. I peeked outside my window and saw a little boy outside in the little tennant yard. "Why are you out there?" I wanted to say something but the boy didn't feel me watching him. I saw him laughing and playing around with someone else that seemed to glow like a star. Just by looking at him, he looked like he wanted to play. Was this boy also singing something? I couldn't hear him but I wanted to play with him too. I snatched Apollo who was sleeping in his case and ran away quietly from my bedroom. I heard Auntie May-May sleeping as well and I giggled a little. I wanted to go play outside.
I didn't think about how much noise I made but I wanted to play. I never was allowed to play outside at night since it was scary. Now that I was becoming older and closer to my ninth birthday, I couldn't hold back. I ran outside and out through the backdoor heading to the yard. I was a little scared as I saw the boy play with the starlight. I smiled with a little giggle while getting Apollo out of his case. I began waking him up by plucking some of Apollo's strings. I began playing with him and the boy turned to me with scared eyes. "You-- Oh no!" He began running away from me but I didn't want him to leave, "Wait! I'm just here to play." The boy was about my age but his yellow hair looked weird. There were stray hairs of him having green or blue. I was confused but I didn't want to be rude yet I became even more curious, "What's your name? Why are you out here?"
The boy pointed at himself with wide eyes, "Me?"
I nodded with a smile and plucked Apollo's strings. Apollo rested on my lap as the boy came closer to me. He sat beside me as I was able to see his strange eyes. They looked like stray colors of an early sunrise. They were light pink and orange with little hints of light purple. "Sorry about the eyes. I was--" The boy was a little strange but I giggled, "It's okay. What's your name?" His skin was a shade darker than mine but I liked it. He told me his name was Charlie, Charlie Sharp. I smiled and told him my name but his eyes grew wide, "Wait, you're the girl from the second floor window, right?" I nodded but grew even more curious, "Why are you out here? Why were you singing or humming?" I found out what he was holding was a little lantern but he continued. He was looking for someone special.
"Who are you looking for?" I continued to ask him but he shook his head as if Charlie was scared, "You…You wouldn't understand. You're not like me."
"I would listen! Please? Please tell me Charlie. I won't tell anyone." I smiled as he looked at me weirdly, "But you're a girl."
"I don't care," I smiled, "Please tell me."
He didn't listen, "No."
"Please?" I tried again but he was getting angry, "Again, no. You're a girl. You wouldn't understand."
I crossed my arms while Apollo's bow collided with his strings, "Let me know now!" "Look, I can't just tell you," Charlie began to leave me in the yard, "You'll have to do it yourself." "Charlie, wait!" I didn't want him to leave. I just started to get to know him. Mommy said that it's good to have someone with you. You won't do well on your own if no one is with you. "If you want to find him, you'll have to play your little friend." Charlie hopped over the fence and I was left behind. His footsteps went quieter and quieter as he left me behind. I didn't want him to leave me but he did leave his starlight behind.
I picked it up but found out it was some tiny rock. It was black but there were spots of yellow, brown, and orange. I turned to my bedroom window on the second floor and dashed upstairs. I quietly went back to my bedroom and tucked myself into bed with Apollo beside me.
September 5th, 1824
"Daddy, where are we going?" I looked at him with a happy smile as he walked me through the streets of New York City, "Are we going to your job?" Daddy laughed while holding my hand tightly, "No, but this is something I wanted to do for some time." Daddy had a knack for giving me new adventures. Yet, this one was different. We passed the market where Mommy and Auntie May-May would shop for food. We walked past workers heading off to their jobs and I even saw kids my age heading off to work too. "Where are we going?" I asked him again but he didn't listen to me. He just kept walking and I didn't know what was going to happen. I was a little scared but I kept myself busy with my introductions to any workers passing by the two of us. I hoped that little Apollo would be okay with me being gone for some time. I just hated leaving him too long in his case. I wanted to bring him along but Daddy told me not to do it. For now, I hope I'll find out where we are going.
~~~
"This is where you wanted me to be?" I looked at the display of pianos and harpsichords behind the glass wall. I traveled so far with Daddy and I didn't know this was where he wanted me to be for the day. "You're not just going to look, are you?" Daddy pulled me inside and I heard the sound of music being played. I didn't know who was playing it but I think I recognized the music's composer. Was it Beethoven or Vivaldi? I didn't know my composers yet but I'd love to know more. I just wished I met them face to face. Daddy brought me inside and the master of the fine store or classroom came to greet us. Just from what I saw, it seemed this was where Daddy worked whenever he wasn't with Mommy. They knew each other and acted like they were good friends. I, on the other hand, hid myself behind Daddy since I didn't know him very well. "Ah~ Who's the little girl here?" The master came to me and I backed away in fear. Daddy laughed warmly, "She's my daughter and your pupil." I gave the master a little scared look in which he smiled, "Your daughter is a wonderful opportunity for me." I let out a scared introduction but Daddy passed it as shyness. Yet, the master of this place wanted me to pick a piano to use. But what seemed strange was the fact that he wanted to have some time with Daddy. It sounded like they wanted to play around for some time but they sounded serious. Why did they sound like this? For now, I played the role of a young pupil for some time and I peeked into the master's office.
Daddy and the master began their talk as if they were old friends. It sounded nice as they talked about adult things in which I didn't know or understand. Yet, they didn't talk about money or business. This one was different. I was used to hearing Daddy talk about the amount of money we possessed with Mommy from time to time. This one was something I wasn't used to hearing. I heard them talking about people going out like always but then they disappear. They leave nothing behind and I felt a little scared. The last thing I wanted to happen was having Mommy or Daddy running away from me. I loved them a lot. I didn't want them to leave. As I continued to listen to their conversation, I heard something going on outside. I heard someone rushing their way through the streets and I made my way to the glass window. I saw someone in ragged clothing and what seemed to be one of the workers from the many factories chased that person. I came outside and watched the whole thing take place while some of the kids from the market streets watched too.
"Did you see that guy?" "Wow! Talk about fast!" "He was amazing!" I heard them have their talk about that guy that passed by. I wanted in on the conversation but I didn't want to be rude. I didn't want to interrupt them. "Hey! He's at it!" "Hurry! I want to see him!" "Wait! I want to see it too!" They ran away but I felt someone pull me away. I was shocked to see Charlie but he was a little scared. "What're you doing out here?" I was shocked to see him. "You saw that guy, right?," he held onto me tightly and I nodded. "Well, good, don't go near him, okay?" "Wait, what?" "Aside from that, I was looking for you all day. I lost something and I can't find it," he sat me at the stairs of the piano shop. He told me it was a little stone and I remembered finding a strange stone as well in the tennant yard. He told me that he looked everywhere but I didn't know what stone he was talking about. "Why did I even meet you in the first place?" He was getting angry, "Forget about it." "No, I want to help." I stood up quickly. "Maybe later tonight?" Charlie raised a brow, "You're not like other girls." Was that a good thing to say to me? I didn't know but I made that promise clear to Charlie. I'd help him later but I heard Daddy looking for me. "I'll come see you later tonight." I winked and rushed inside the piano shop.
September 6th, 1824
"Violin girl, hurry up." I heard Charlie call to me from the yard and I giggled when opening my bedroom window. I knew what my plan was for tonight and I didn't miss a single detail. I snatched my bedroom sheets and blankets, quickly tying them to my bedpost and together. I threw them out my window like a rope but I was a little scared to take the risk. Yet, I wasn't going to be afraid of taking it. I scuttled my way to the ground like a little bug and Charlie was ready for our second meeting. Of course, I didn't know what stone he was talking about but he told me that some person gave it to him. Someone with black hair and eyes in which I thought this person was scary. He didn't tell me his name but he told me that this person was really nice. "I don't know," I crossed my arms after placing one of my little blankets around my body like a cape, "Mommy says I shouldn't talk to strangers without them beside me." "Well, what about me?" He leaped over the fence and began taking me through a little hole that seemed big enough for me to pass through. "You're different," I ducked but froze when hearing Auntie May-May. No no! Not good! "Go on now," Charlie pulled me through the hole and I came into his arms. I felt my heart race with fear and excitement. Yet, why did Auntie May-May not scream my name? Yet, even more so, why did she begin singing something? Did she forget something in the kitchen? No, she always did this. "Let's go!" Charlie pulled me but I refused as the song kept going through me. The more I heard it, the more entranced I became to where I began following her. She began heading through the same entry we did. Charlie tried to hold back a scream, "Fine by me if you want to get found!" He ran off while Auntie May-May continued humming but also began dancing around like she was on stage. I watched with joy as she spun around while saying a name. It sounded strange to be called that name but I kept following her. She swayed side to side or spun. Her heeled boots clicked as she lifted herself and danced around in the moonlit streets.
As I continued following her, I saw little patterns dance around and vanish. They looked like little swirls on Mommy's dresses and were pretty. They were different colors and I heard some little cats meowing. I didn't know why Auntie May-May was dressed up as well. She looked pretty like Mommy on stage. She wasn't as good as Mommy when she sang but she was close. Mommy sang better since she learned at a very young age. I watched Auntie May-May hum while petting the cats with a happy smile as if greeting them. "Where are you going?" I asked quietly but she didn't hear me. One of the cats smiled and purred while heading to a nearby church. Why was Auntie May-May heading to a church? I don't think she needed to tell anyone about her secrets.
The two of us made our way to the old church and she smiled widely. I hid behind one of the long seats and peeked my head from it. There, I saw her near some pretty table and behind it was some sort of carved figure guarding it. I went closer towards it while hiding from Auntie May-May's sight. She was extremely quiet and I was a little scared. What if she found me and kicked me into the streets? She began to undress a large cloak from her body, revealing a white shirt and pants fit for a boy. Her long boots shone in the moonlight and her green and blue eyes did the same. She positioned herself as her cream colored coat flew like a bird and she began to sing again. She sang that song again and I watched that carving begin to move. I held a scream as my eyes widened in shock. I saw her dance around the pretty table and the carving began to color. I saw shades of black and light skin covered in strange pieces of skin. They looked like scales like a lizard or a snake. The arms began to break free from the wall and crawled out of the wall. Auntie May-May stopped herself before the pretty table and placed what looked like scraps of food. They looked yummy and I wanted to eat them. They looked like little cakes and sweet breads. She smiled widely while I backed away just to watch the carving become even more alive and scarier. I felt my body freeze like water turning to ice and a creature came out. It wore old clothing but in shades of black with little accents of white or gold. The creature's hair was very long and held a little wave. I saw its legs where they looked like cat or dog legs. Its arms looked human but the hands looked like they had long claws. Auntie May-May looked up when that creature stood on its legs and I saw its scary face. Yet, Auntie May-May didn't hold any fear. She bowed her head to it! I wanted to scream and tell her to leave but I was afraid of her seeing me. Why was Auntie May-May with this creature? I saw her get close to it and she smiled brightly. That creature purred while bringing her close but she began to yell at it angrily. She didn't seem angry since there was a playful tease as well.
"Please, I'd rather not have you like this. Turn to something more familiar than what I see right now." I watched her tilt her head playfully. The creature mocked her and I heard it chirp. It wasn't like a bird and it was strange to hear it. She laughed, "C'mon! I've seen you do it once." The creature shook its head while lying on the ground. It was like a cat but also like a human. It lifted its head as if it wanted to be petted. Instead, Auntie May-May came close to it and let its head lay on her lap after it grabbed the food from the pretty table. She pulled out what seemed to be one of Mommy's hairbrushes and brushed each lock of black and gray hair slowly.
I watched with wide eyes as she took care of it. Was this some sort of big cat from the wild lands of Africa? Daddy told me about some men going there to do safaris. It wasn't like them but it acted like one. But, Auntie May-May was talking to it and she seemed afraid. She began thinking of leaving Mommy behind but I heard it speak. The words it spoke weren't English or French. It also sounded worried but also comforted my Auntie May-May. How it came close to her and hugged her like she was a lover or a daughter. The reason why she wanted to leave was to first go back to where she grew up. The second reason she wanted to leave was to say goodbye to New York since the air was getting hard for her to breathe. The final reason was all the people leaving not a trace of themselves. She even sounded scared when she even mentioned me or Daddy. She also said that someone was watching and following her every move. I didn't mean to follow her. I was only curious about what she was doing tonight. She also entranced me with that song too.
Yet, I messed up. I stepped closer to them and I heard something snap. It sounded like an old vine or branch but the creature froze. "What's wrong?" Auntie May-May saw the creature slowly crawling from the small set of stairs and headed for me. I gasped while backing away in fear. I didn't want this creature to catch me. It growled while I headed closer to the church doors. I saw Auntie May-May stand up with a look of fear and worry. Was she looking at me as the creature continued heading to me? I didn't mean to scare or anger it! Auntie May-May held out her hand in fear, "Wait! Don't--"
It screamed loudly and I did as well. I quickly headed for the doors and ran outside as it followed me. I heard the sky giving way for rain and I ducked my head under my little blanket. I heard it scream as I passed through the streets. I went left and right, up and down. Mommy! Daddy! Tell me this is a nightmare! I hoped for that thing to stop chasing me. I felt tears shed from my eyes as my blanket continued to shield me from the rain. I couldn't see where I was going but I heard the cats meow angrily while running away from the rain. I looked back while slowing down and looking. I couldn't tell where that creature was but I was scared. If it was gone, thank goodness! I'm a fast runner! Nothing will catch me. I smiled as I heard nothing but I felt myself getting soaked. Mommy and Daddy weren't going to be happy seeing me like this.
"There you are!"
I gasped and saw Charlie, "Hi!" I wiped some of the tears while coming close with a wet blanket over us. He smiled while hugging me tightly, "I was so worried about you. Don't do that again, okay? I have to get you back before someone knows--" Charlie froze when seeing what seemed to be that creature again. I knew that he was looking for that stone again in his pocket but he forgot. He said a name I didn't recognize and wished that person was here. For a moment, within the low light, the rain didn't touch this person. I thought this person was holding an umbrella but I didn't see one. It was too dark and I felt scared. This person turned to face us and we were shocked to see two eyes staring at us. They glowed like little candles inside tiny lanterns and we heard something rustle.
"What are you two little children doing out here? Even at this late hour?" The person that spoke to us was a man, "Are you two lost? You two seem to be not from this side of New York City. Where are your parents, hm? Can you tell me?"
Charlie's rainbow colored eyes widened as he pushed me away, "We're just going home. That's all!"
The man chuckled, "Well, why don't I take you two home? Where do you live?" We didn't say a word while looking at the man. I couldn't get a good look since it was dark. The rain drowned out every other noise and I began running away from that man. I didn't mean to leave Charlie behind but I knew where to go, right? I just had to look around for a way back. Mommy and Daddy told me not to talk to strangers. I'm sorry, Charlie, but I have to listen to them.
September 7th, 1824
"Morning~" I yawned while hopping out of bed. I couldn't stop thinking about what happened last night. I walked outside from my bedroom and found Mommy and Daddy talking to someone. Auntie May-May was there as well and I was confused. The person was a male, wearing a dark blue uniform and hat, and I saw a badge on his chest. Was he working for the police? "Auntie May-May, what's going on?" I came to her side and she was alarmed, "Laura, not now. Go outside or play with Apollo. We're a little--"
The man saw me, "Oh? Who's this?" I was scared and I hid behind Auntie May-May's skirt. Daddy sighed, "She's our daughter. I'm sorry that she interrupted you, sir."
Mommy came in too, "If you'd like to talk to her, it's alright. Ralph, let him talk to her."
"Izabelle, now that won't be--" "I'd like to do that," the man came closer to me but Auntie May-May patted my head, "It's okay. If you like, you can go to your room to talk to him." "But you said--Mmph!" I never thought Auntie May-May would cover my mouth. She laughed while pushing me back to my room, "Go on now! Go to your room with the nice man." The nicely dressed man followed me to my room and I sat on my bed, "Who are you?" He looked around and smiled, "You have a nice bedroom. May I come in?" I was a little scared, "Mommy or Daddy doesn't like anyone coming into my room." "Is it because I'm a stranger?" He continued to look at me. I nodded but he gave a little laugh, "Well, might as well get introductions taken care of, hm?" I watched him slowly come in and he raised his hand to mine. He introduced himself as one of the officers of the police and I felt a little scared. He told me that he wasn't going to do anything bad to me but he did have questions. But, the first thing he did was make me feel comfortable. He asked me for my name and what I did, what I liked to do, or anything that made me happy. I told him everything and even showed off little Apollo to him. He was happy that I owned a violin that was passed down to me from my grandpa and told me that he owned a little nephew that owned a violin that looked just like Apollo. He even asked me why Grandpa named him Apollo. It was for good luck, after all, and for a better friendship later in life. He noticed that I didn't own anything like little dolls in my room. I told him that I was afraid of dolls since they looked too human. Mommy bought me one when I was five but I was scared of its glassy eyes and human face. He noticed that I even owned a few books and I told him that Daddy gave them to me so I can learn. I didn't want to be dumb in front of the other boys. I was teaching myself how to read and Mommy or Auntie May-May taught me how to write. I wanted to show my little book to him but I remembered what both Mommy or Auntie May-May told me. That little book I owned was mine and no one could take it because those were my words. He did agree that my Mommy and Daddy were part of the working class (whatever that meant…) and I'd learn the basics of being a woman. They didn't want me going somewhere far away from their eyes or hands. I was scared to leave them so Auntie May-May also gave me other books to read. The books were about math and science. I had fun going out to the tennant yard and finding little bugs like ants or butterflies. As much as I wanted to learn, they didn't allow me to go too far. Daddy didn't want me to be too much like a boy. He was afraid of me rebelling later in life or worse, doing something bad.
But, the time came that he stopped asking me those questions. He began to act odd. Those questions were all about my friend from last night, Charlie Sharp, and where he was for the last few days. He told me that Charlie disappeared last night and the police were looking for him all morning. His mother didn't see him and ran to the first officer she found earlier today. I told him when we first met with a shaky voice. I was a little scared when hearing the news. He understood me while I played with Apollo or went through my clothes.
"And Charlie…," he nodded slowly and sat on my bed, "You were with him late last night? Why?" I had to hide the fact that I was looking for that stone (which I did find in my little drawer set today) and watching Auntie May-May play with some kind of creature. I told him that we were just playing in the streets. "Okay, and did someone see you?" He became even more curious. I was a little scared so I looked away. I was holding one of my older pairs of shoes. "I don't know. It was too dark outside. Our lantern got wet by the rain last night. I ran away before I said goodbye to him." I knew Mommy and Daddy didn't like me lying. I was scared that I would get in trouble. Then I asked him while coming close to him, "You're going to find him, right?" I was scared that he went away without saying goodbye to me for the last time. I watched him leave my room and patted my shoulder with a smile, "We'll find him." "You have to! He's my friend!" I began to cry, "You have to find Charlie! Please find him!" He gave me a worried look and smiled. He knelt on one knee and smiled. I saw him grab a little napkin and rubbed my eyes, "I know it's hard but I'll try my best." I didn't like hearing myself cry but I wanted to know if Charlie was okay. We had a lot of fun together outside in the tennant yard. We got to play together, see some of the bugs crawling around, or even have little picnics too. He was also a good dancer too whenever I brought Apollo with me. He was so much fun and I didn't want the fun to stop. How those many colored eyes shone in the late light. I wished to see them again.
September 9th, 1824
It's been two day since the officer came to me and Charlie didn't come back. I was hoping he would return but Auntie May-May told me not to worry about it. The news would come around and I would be happy to see him if he came back. For now, Mommy and Daddy were getting ready to head out to work and Auntie May-May was going to get groceries. I wanted to come with Mommy and Daddy but I was too young to leave. I wasn't that young. I was close to being nine years old! I only had a month till my birthday came around. Yet, both Mommy and Daddy told me to stay with Auntie May-May. For now, I was listening to her as well. This would be a day where I wouldn't listen to Mommy, Daddy, or Auntie May-May. I was going to look for him!
~~~
Sunset came faster than I thought and Auntie May-May was making dinner. She was roasting a whole chicken and I smelled the spices from my room. For now, I was going to leave her and go off on a little adventure. She wouldn't mind me going through New York again. I did the same thing that I did last time: I tied my bedding into a long rope and climbed from it. I ran away from my room, through the tennant yard, and under the fence. I ran past many factory workers and began looking around for Charlie's many colored eyes or his strange blonde and streaked many colored hair. I called out to him a few times but he didn't come to me like a little puppy.
"Away," I heard one of the workers yell, "Away, you foul beast. Off with you and your wicked ways." I saw him kick a little cat and it hissed at him angrily. I watched him spit on the poor cat and walked off. Yet, the cat didn't mind but it saw me. It meowed happily and came to my legs. I giggled, "Hey! That tickles." It hit its head on my foot but I shook my head, "I'm sorry, little kitty, but I have no food with me." Its black fur with little white spots all over its body were colored hints of orange and yellow. Its little white eyes were colored that same shade as well when it hopped from the entrances of old shops. It meowed at me as I followed it, "Do you know where Charlie is? Tell me, little kitty. Tell me where to go. I'll follow you." The cat meowed happily as others of shades of orange, white, or even yellow began walking around. I danced with them as they guided me through the streets. Their meows were cute with some very young while others very old. I liked being with them and I didn't pay attention to where I was going. Some of the cats screamed out and I was close to hitting one of the carriages. I saw one cat get run over and I was scared for its life. The others laughed at it as they continued pushing me away from the scary scene. I watched as a little crow or raven hop over and began eating it. It was yucky to watch it but the cats continued to push and dance with me.
Before I knew it, some of them began to leave and I was eventually left alone. When seeing the place I was taken to by the cats, it was that old church again. I was shocked when seeing it again after what happened three nights ago. Was that creature going to come back and scare me again? I went through the front yard but noticed that a few empty plates and bottles were outside the doors. "Ew…" I didn't like seeing the dirty dishes. Auntie May-May would be mad if she saw this. How come I didn't see this before? Was it because of me being so focused with Auntie May-May? I didn't know and I was a little scared to head inside. I made my way to the doors while gathering some of the dirty dishes and piling them in a neat place. I gathered the dirty bottles but some of them were broken. I didn't want to get myself hurt so I didn't touch them. After cleaning the yard, I smiled when seeing the patches of green grass and little brown leaves near the large trees. I noticed that it was already night time but the doors opened to me. I was scared but I did head to them. The doors were bigger than me but looked really heavy. I saw the peeling white paint and the broken glass from the windows. I was scared to head inside but something told me inside that I needed to head in there. Was it my curiosity? I began pushing hard at the doors and they did open a little bit. I poked my head inside and the moon was shining on that figure at the end of the hall. The long wooden seats were dirty and broken at the legs or in between. I headed for the figure in the wall as it looked scarier under the moonlight. Was that creature going to come to life? I saw its scary face when I got closer to it.
"Hello, sir." I was scared when saying hello, "My name is Laura. What's your name?" It didn't say anything and I was getting upset, "If you chased me, that wasn't very nice. Daddy would've gone after you." I tried looking angry but it didn't work so well. I probably looked like I was pouting.
"Look at you being all cute." I heard a voice call out to me and I screamed, "Who's there?" I heard a laugh and the sound of old ropes being used. I turned around and hid behind the pretty table. "Never thought I'd see a little lass like you having the guts to get up close to him." The voice sounded like a man but his accent was off. It didn't sound like some of the workers or how Mommy spoke from time to time. "Well, little girl, come on out. I won't bite or even myself." I heard a little bottle tickling around the man's waist and saw him come through the long space between the broken seats, "That nasty creature isn't going to do anything. It's just a sculpture." He stopped and raised both hands, "Don't worry, I've come unarmed and quite lonely." A little smile was on his face and I came out from under the pretty table, "Who are you? Do you live here?" He bowed to me with that bottle in his hand, "Call me the Master of this old place." I didn't know what he meant, "What do you mean?" "Okay, look, I was playing but I do live here." He came to reveal himself and I liked how he looked a little bit. His black hair was long in the back but it covered his left eye. His eyes were light blue and light gray whenever he was having his fun. He was about Auntie May-May's age and he seemed nice. He came to me with a curious look, "Name's Greison Redgrave, little lassie, and what're you doing here? If I'm correct, you seem a long way away from ya mum." I watched him come close to the figure and I was scared, "No! Don't touch that. You'll get--" Grei laughed while petting the figure's head. I was scared but he seemed so brave, "Don't worry, mate. It's fine. The beast will never get out to kill me." He knocked it's scary face a few times, "Besides, dang beast is made of stone." "But I saw it come to life a few days ago!" I pouted but he laughed again while getting the bottle and placed it on the pretty table, "Must've been a dream, lassie, but you haven't answered my question. Why's a girl like you doing around here?" I told Grei that I was looking for Charlie. He began to think hard, "Charlie…Charlie…" He began walking around and I was scared that creature was going to come out to get him. Just by looking at the scary face it had, I felt like it was going to come back to life from the stone cage.
"Oh! I got it!" He snapped his fingers, "Yeah, wasn't he in the paper? Said that he went missing a few days ago." I nodded quickly, "Yes! That's him! Did you see him here? The police are finding him along with other people that went missing." He seemed upset with that upside down smile, "Well, about that…I don't know if I saw him around here." "No fair! I was hoping he'd be here! I remember coming to him after being chased out by that creature." I pointed at the figure looking at us angrily. I watched Grei cast a cheeky smile, "Oh? You mean our little friend here? You think he's hiding him?" I never thought of it that way, "What? You mean he's hiding somewhere and that creature is holding him somewhere?" Grei continued giggling, "Oy! You're holding my little lassie's friend captive, hm? C'mon, let little Charlie out or I knock a block off ya." I giggled a little as he teased the creature. He was brave to speak up for me. He played around and began getting ready to punch the creature's face, "I'll do it, you nasty beast. C'mon!" I continued to laugh again but I heard something echo through the large church. Even Grei stopped and heard it too, "What in the name of--?" We heard what sounded like a crow or some other bird screaming.
"Okay…" I began backing up to Grei, "You had--You had your fun." I was beginning to shake in my little boots, "Let's leave." "How about this? You come back here in the morning, okay?" Grei began looking around while bringing me into his arms. He looked when we heard something crack and growl again. I began looking and it was that creature. I froze in fear and Grei was quick to jump on the pretty table. We watched the creature's body transform from stone into something real. It crawled from its high perch and I watched a long tail drag against the ground as it crawled. The eyes looked at us and it growled like a dog. Grei held me tight, "You're not hurting her, got it?" The creature's black hair fell against its shoulders and its scaled body shone under the moonlight. It grabbed the pretty table edge and rose to its hind legs. I watched with wide eyes as it came close to us and sniffed us like we were food. But what I saw on its scary face was some sort of mark. It looked like some sort of holy symbol. I didn't recognize it as its face began to turn into something more human-like. It sounded like a large frog croaking and a bird chirping. Grei grew angrier, "Get away from us, you freaky beast." He let go of me by one arm and quickly grabbed a candle holder, "Stay away!" I heard it hiss and snarl like an angry dog but Grei quickly covered my face. I heard metal hitting something that snapped hard against the creature's head. It screamed in pain and I saw it lay against the ground. It hissed while Grei hopped from the pretty table and I saw the candle holder looking a bit bent. "Stop it!" I quickly got out of Grei's arms and came to the creature. I was afraid of it as it held its hand on its head. No, not head, but what looked like a horn. More like a broken one and it looked smooth but the edges were raised a little. "Lassie, get away from that beast," Grei screamed at me but I felt upset about the creature's horn. I found the end of it near one of the long seats and gave it to it. It felt warm but also cold in my hands. I gave it to the creature, "Here…I'm sorry for what he did. He was scared as much as you were." I was a little scared as its black eyes looked at me and its long clawed hands reached out for it. I felt the long nails scratch my little hands but it hopped a little on its crouched dog or cat legs. It chirped a few times and it looked like it wanted something. I shook my head, "I'm sorry but I didn't bring anything with me." It shook its head a few times while Grei kept watch in shock. I watched it prick my finger and licked a little drop of blood. It licked the horn and the two of us watched in shock as the horn reattached to its head. "How did you do that?" I giggled and came close but Grei grabbed my hand, "Okay, that's enough. Go running back home, okay?"
The creature snarled again and Grei stopped in fear. I felt the creature's hand take mine and slowly let me leave Grei behind. Grei's eyes went wide as I left him. The creature brought me to the door but I was scared. It rubbed its head against my face like how a cat would mark its home. I heard it purr and I giggled but stopped when it lowered itself to the ground. I heard a low growl and it sounded sad. "Are you sad that I'm going to say goodbye?" I petted its head but it shook its head. It quickly left and the two of us at each end heard it clattering above. I heard a bird chirping and the creature held a little yellow bird in its black scaled and clawed hand. I remember seeing that little yellow bird in Mommy's books whenever she had a chance to read. I was surprised that its large hand was squeezing the little bird. He was so easy with it. He opened his hand like a flower and it sang a little song. It landed on my shoulder and continued singing its melody. Yet, it sounded familiar, both bird and song. That's when it got me.
"Auntie May-May!" Oh no! I'm late for dinner time! I had to lie to her and I didn't want to do it. "I'm sorry but I need to go. I'm sorry to leave you." The creature chirped with a strange happy smile and pushed me outside of the church. The little yellow bird flew off my shoulder and continued singing its little song as I made my way back home. I saw the creature at the window and I waved my hand a few times. Goodbye, odd creature. Goodbye, Grei. I'll see you when I have time.
September 14th, 1824
"Promise to be good?" Mommy kissed my cheek and Daddy hugged me tight. I kissed both of their cheeks, "Yes!" Auntie May-May waited in the kitchen and watched both Mommy and Daddy leave for tonight. The two of them were to work together tonight: Mommy offering her voice to many while Daddy doing his money work at Mommy's job. I think he was trying to spread the word about his and that man's shop. I think it worked since Daddy would come back home with money in his pockets and Mommy smiling at her work. Auntie May-May was last to say goodbye for tonight and gave them both good luck. For now, it was the two of us again and I wanted to go on another adventure. I wanted to see that creature and Grei again. They were so much fun. I went out to the backyard of the church and the creature let me play nearby the woods. Grei also got to play with me too and I wanted to play more. The two of them were my friends and no one was going to take them away from me.
"You seem a bit different." Auntie May-May was preparing a pot of boiling water, "Laura, can you get one of the tea tins? Also get the tea strainer, okay?" I nodded while grabbing a chair and reaching for one of the tea tins. I think she'd like the container with the pretty girl holding a basket of blackberries and blueberries. "What's going on, Laura? You're acting strange." She looked at me, "I don't hear you playing Apollo's strings or see your candle flickering whenever you write. Is something bothering you?" I hopped into my seat at the kitchen table. Was she going to find out? "Is this about Charlie?," she placed a few little logs on the stove's lower cabinet, "Don't think I heard your little conversation with the police officer."
I lied and told the truth, "Yes, it is."
"Did you like Charlie?" Auntie May-May came beside me, "I wasn't informed that you had a little friend besides Apollo."
"When you told me to play outside, I was lonely," I lowered my head, "I didn't want to be alone anymore. Daddy says that I shouldn't have friends besides you and Apollo."
She rolled her eyes and tied her long blonde hair back, "Tsk! The nerve of your father! He just doesn't want you to be around boys." "Why?" I raised my head, "Is this about Mommy and Daddy when they were my age?" "It's a long story, Laura." She went to the stove and poked the flames a few times, "Let's just say that your Mommy knew someone." I wanted to know more, "Then what?" "Again, it's a long tale," Auntie May-May closed the stove door, "Also, you don't know what love is like because you're a little girl." I was curious, "Is that something I'll learn when I get older?"
She nodded, "Let's not dwell on the subject. What tea did you bring me?" I gave her the tea tin with the farmer girl with the basket of fruit. "Try something more seasonal," she winked at me, "The season must match the flavor. It was something that my own Mommy told me." "Your Mommy?" I became even more curious, "What's her name? What was she like?" I knew parts of Auntie May-May's life.
She told me tales where she grew up in a large farm where little chickens laid eggs, cows would offer her family milk and meat, and a little doggy that loved her like a human sibling. She also told me she lived in an area that was between two countries. Was it France and Spain? No no! Maybe farther towards the sea? I can't remember! I think she was also the eldest out of two sisters and three brothers. Again, I can't remember. I was younger then and I didn't know how to write. "You silly girl, I told those tales hundreds of times," Auntie May-May laughed, "But, unlike your Mommy, my Mommy had to stay home and teach me how to take care of the farm animals. I do remember how my brothers would pick on me to take care of the rooster." I laughed a little, "That silly mean rooster would always chase you around!" She laughed while holding me close, "Yes, and as for you, you're like one of my little sisters."
That smile went away and she became sad. I watched her head to the dirty window and look outside. I came beside her, "Do you miss being with your family and the farm?" I knew she was sad. She loved being on rolling hills of green grass, the cows mooing whenever warm milk was ready, or whenever the sun would never leave. She was a girl from the country, not the city like Mommy. Mommy loved the city life where everything was right in front of her. She loved the people passing by each day or the fun times at those grownup places. Daddy liked it too but also loved the country. I turned out to be like both Mommy and Daddy, a girl that lived in between the country and city. I remember Daddy taking me to the sandy beaches of New England. I loved playing near the water or having picnics. Yet, summer was over and autumn was around the corner. I loved the warm colors of red, orange, yellow, and brown. There would be purple or black leaves on the ground as well. I remember seeing acorns dropping to the ground. The warm smells of baking or cooking would make me feel all cozy inside. But, when I looked at her, Auntie May-May told me that she missed the country. She wanted to head back home but I was scared that she would never come back for us. Maybe she'd let me come with her along with Mommy and Daddy. "Dear me!" She headed off to the tea pot, "Look at me rambling! Laura, come over to the table, okay?" I rushed to her and she made a whole pot. For me, I got to be with her again. She was like Mommy but different. She took care of me whenever Mommy or Daddy wasn't with me.
As the two of us had our tea, she asked me what I did with Charlie. I told her the same things. I played with him and even danced with him. Auntie May-May smiled and laughed, "Well, more reason your father doesn't want you doing it. He doesn't want you around boys." She rolled her eyes with that same happy smile but I didn't know what she meant, "Being around boys?" "Love, Laura, is an emotion you'll learn over time." She kissed my forehead, "My brothers and sisters got their chances at love. For me, love didn't arrive for me. I haven't fallen for any man that wanted me." Love? Was love like the love Mommy and Daddy gave me? I didn't know that there were different types of love. Auntie May-May knew that look I had and laughed, "Again, you'll find it when you meet someone, okay?" I nodded my head and drank my tea, "Okay." I can't wait to tell this to Grei and the creature.
September 15th, 1824
I snuck out again and Auntie May-May didn't hear me. She was asleep because she drank some sort of flower tea. She was asleep in her room and I was out again. I'm so clever at doing this! Yet, Grei wanted to let the creature see the stone Charlie had and I didn't want to make him mad. I made sure to have it in my hands when reaching that old church. I saw the cats playing around again and I danced with them. But, I also brought Apollo with me. I wondered if the creature would be able to dance around and have fun with me. Only one way to find out and it was to try.
"Grei, I'm here!" I made my way to the old church. The sun was already gone and the moonlight was just right. I went inside and the creature's friends were flying around and singing a few songs. They were staying up late and the others were sleeping on the higher floors. The creature was still sleeping and Grei wasn't here yet. "Grei, I brought the stone and Apollo too. We can play together again if you come out. Where are you?" I looked around and the creature's friends saw me. They looked happy when they saw me. Apollo was strapped to my back and the stone was tied around my neck with embroidery thread from Mommy's sewing kit. Some of the birds chirped loudly and I saw the creature wake up. It came to me slowly and its black eyes shone under the moonlight. "It's nice to see you again. Where's Grei?" I asked, "Can you tell or show me? I want to see him." It nodded and quickly crawled through one of the broken windows. The tail was right behind it and I was hoping that Grei was out there. "Grei?" I came to the broken window where the creature got out. I saw a yard but there were heavy stone pieces. Were those tombstones out there? It looked scary and I didn't like it. I saw parts of the creature but heard a little meow. It sounded like a cat and I wondered if the creature was playing with it.
"Grei?" I came outside and went to the graveyard. The cat meowed again and I was shocked when seeing the blue and gray eyes. I picked up the black cat and looked at the creature, "Did you do this to him?" The creature shook its head and I didn't understand. Was Grei always a cat? But what about that person I saw earlier? The creature came close to us and pointed at the moon. "What about the moon?" I didn't know what the creature meant. It took the cat from my hands and let it rest on one of the smaller tombstones. It held a finger and I stood still. "What's going on?" I wasn't understanding any of this but the creature pointed at Charlie's stone and then the cat. Charlie's stone was glittering and saw a little light coming from the black cat as well.
I looked at the cat but I saw no cat but Grei. He was right there, sleeping like a cat. "How did he do that?" Grei began to wake up and his blue and gray eyes sparkled. He smiled, "Good to see you, Laura. I missed you." "You were a cat! I saw you as one!" I began to tell him but he calmed me, "It's okay. I know and I didn't mean to do that. Let's just say that it's a little blessing and curse. Our little friend isn't to blame." I looked at the creature and Grei petted its head, "Let's just say that being part of his little clan made me feel better." I remembered when we met for the first time. Grei wasn't happy with the creature but now he is. Is this love or friendship?
"Looks like you found it, you little lassie," Grei smiled when seeing Charlie's stone, "Still sad that it didn't change color for you. Oh well!" The creature growled at him, "What? It's not my fault that Charlie went missing you good-for-nothing poppycock!" The creature growled at him and crawled from one side to the other side of the yard. "At least she's got me." Grei sat on the ground and began licking the back of his hand like a cat. The creature let out a little growl that sounded like laughing. "Shut up, beastie." He growled and continued to act like a cat.
For me, I was only able to get part of the conversation. What did Grei mean? Did he belong to Charlie? I came beside Grei, "What's going on? Can you tell me?" Grei looked at me oddly and so did the creature. I was a little scared, "What? Did I say something?" Grei shook his head while picking me up. I was able to see that his clothes did fit his cat form. He wore a black shirt but the sleeves looked a little tight around his arms. His hands were a little dirty from him walking around in the grass and falling leaves. Or was it coal on them? His legs were in black pants but his feet were bare. They looked bad since they were covered in scars. I even saw a little hair on the tips of his ears.
"No, lassie, you didn't say anything mean." He patted my head like I was a cat. His nails were sharp and it felt good but also hurt. "It's a lot to explain, okay? He's connected to me now after a few days." "What do you mean?" I was still curious but Grei held me close, "I'm to be with you, okay? Our little friend told me." "But what about Charlie?" I was scared, "Did you stay with him too? Why are you a cat but also a human too?" He blinked and those cat eyes came back for a moment. I was a little scared when seeing them and he knew. He turned to the creature and out came a meow. The creature nodded and went back inside the old church.
The two of us were alone and he placed me on one of the stones. He told me that the creature and cats were like guardians to humans. A long time ago, people saw cats and what the creature was as old gods and fighters. I didn't know that! There were more like that creature out there? "Where are they? Tell me!" I grew even more curious but Grei calmed me. He told me that some cats were able to turn to humans and make deals with other people. In return, a little treasure was given to the person as proof of their deal. "But one rule is that you never tell anyone about us. If you do, we're done. As for our little friend's kind?" He looked at the old church. He looked through the window and the creature was with its little bird friends. "I'm afraid that our friend's kind isn't as well known." He had a sad look on his face, "When the churches came around, most cats were taken away to a bad place. His kind were taken away to a bad place too. Others were captured and bound to holy temples of worship. He's able to be in the daytime but can only possess a cat or two. You can say that we've made our own deal with them." Was the creature from a bad place too? I wanted to know. "What sort of bad place was it taken to? Tell me, Grei. Please?"
Grei looked at me with a wide eyed look, "You--You wouldn't understand. Plus, it's a scary place. You'd be scared just from hearing it." I wasn't a baby! I wasn't scared but Grei kept it down. "Doesn't our friend have a human form too? Like you, right?" He raised his shoulders into a shrug, "Lassie, I wouldn't know. I never asked our little friend but a blonde haired woman would know. She comes and takes care of him. For me, I stay out of the way so I wouldn't scare her." Was Grei talking about Auntie May-May? If so, maybe I can get to know more from her about Grei and the creature. Maybe even let Grei no longer be a cat forever and be a brother to me. I liked him being with me as a friend but I never had any siblings. I always wanted to have a little brother or even an older brother that would take care of me. Grei was like that and I loved him being a bigger brother to me.
~~~
"Grei, can I ask you something?" I began to grow sleepy and he knew something was up. He patted my head, "What is it? Is something wrong?" I shook my head as sleep was growing on me, "Can you be my big brother? I never had a sibling before and you're nice. You can be able to play with me, dance with me, write with me, or even have picnics with me. All the things big brothers do with their little sisters. Can you do that for me?" Grei looked older than me and I didn't mind being with him. I trusted him and the creature. They were always so nice to me. I yawned and Grei smiled, "You want me to be your big brother?" "You'd be there for me…" I let out another yawn and Apollo was leaning against my back and ready to fall. "And I'd be happy to see you everyday. I'd never have to come here just to play with you." It was getting really late and Grei held me close. The creature nodded its head and Grei held me in his arms. He scratched my head and held me close to his jawline, "I'm going to take you home, okay? No one will notice that I'm a cat." "Okay…" I yawned again and began to fall asleep in his arms, "Will you be there for me when I wake up?" He didn't answer me and carried me back home. I liked how he danced in the streets and I heard a little purr come out from his throat. It sounded nice. I began to fall deeper to sleep and I began to dream of being in a spring garden with Grei. Grei, please, stay with me. Stay with me as my big brother.
October 9th, 1824
It's been over a few weeks since I made the promise to Grei and he's been visiting me from time to time. I like playing with him whenever Auntie May-May is sleeping and Mommy and Daddy are out at work. Now that I was nine, I was happy to be a bit more adventurous than last time. I even got to tell the creature that I grew up a little more. It was happy to see me but also sad. Another year passed and seeing me grow up made it feel that way.
For now, I was playing Apollo again, happy to be with Grei who was dancing around as a little black cat. I loved being with him not only as a little pet but also my big brother. With the stone, I was able to give him the choice to either be a cat or person. For now, I loved how he hopped on his hind legs as if he was dancing with me. Yet, he stopped for a moment and I saw it too. He began meowing again and I saw him walk away from me. I didn't know what was wrong so I began to follow him. The odd part was that the air was getting cold and I blamed the wind outside and the fireplace was out for tonight. Grei began heading to Auntie May-May's room and he froze in fear. His black fur stood up and he arched his back high. I heard a growl come out of his throat followed by a hiss.
"Grei, what's wrong? Can you tell--?" I looked up in the shadows and saw something on top of Auntie May-May. It looked like it was crouching and the weight of it was making it hard for Auntie May-May to breathe. I heard it breathe like something that was dying and I didn't like the noise. Grei meowed louder in anger and I watched as it continued to be on top of her. Was it killing her? Was this murder I was seeing for the first time? But why was that figure trying to kill her? I felt my fingers rub against Charlie's stone and Grei quickly turned to his human self. The figure stopped and we didn't see any eyes looking at us. Grei blocked me with an angry look on his face, "Laura, my little lassie, you must listen to me. You need to run." "No!" I screamed, "I don't want to leave you!" The figure slowly got off of Auntie May-May and came to us. It growled louder than Grei when he was a cat. Grei began making me walk backwards and he did too, "Please! You have to leave now! Go far away!" "I told you that I didn't want to leave you!" I shook my head and that figure began to walk faster. It stood on two legs and it looked like Daddy when he was mad. It growled louder and it was followed by a snarl. I heard something moving and snapping but I didn't know what it came from.
"Laura, run!" Grei pushed me to the tennant door, "Get out of here!" It screamed loudly but it didn't sound human. I screamed and ran away from Grei and the figure. It wasn't the creature I saw at the old church! I knew it would never hurt me! My little feet ran down the stairs and I heard some of my neighbors beginning to wake up. I screamed again when hearing the door from the tennant where I lived break. I covered my head and continued to run. I ran to the streets and that figure screamed out again. "Laura!" I heard Grei scream and I turned around. I saw him fighting with it and I was scared. I didn't want to lose him. "Remember what I promised! I promise to protect you!" Grei grabbed it's face and pushed it back, "Go! Don't stop running! I'll find you! I swear with my own heart and nine lives!" I felt tears stream against my face and I continued running as it continued fighting Grei. I saw a few other cats scream and yell as I ran by them. Were they wanting me to stop and hide? I didn't know where I was going. Only the moon was my light but it began to vanish from sight. I passed carriages and horses, people and animals, shops and homes. My tears blocked my eyes from seeing and I didn't know where I was going. Did I pass Mommy's job? Did I find Daddy passing by me? Did I pass by the old church where the creature lived? I didn't know!
I heard wood against my feet but my tears continued to block my eyes from seeing anything. Where was I? I heard people shouting at me and I covered my ears. I tried telling them to stop yelling and screaming at me but I heard them through my covered ears. I heard dogs barking and I think I saw them chase me. I ran faster and crossed another piece of wood and hid in the shadows. I curled myself into a ball and continued crying. I was cold and tired from running. I heard everyone outside through my covered ears but everything began to grow silent. What was going on? I also felt something wet against my neck and back. I didn't care where I was. It wasn't going to find me. It wasn't going to get me. I felt my body fall on one side and I fell asleep. Grei, I hope I will see you again. You can come back for me. I promise! I promise that you will find me like how we did earlier! I promise to keep our secret safe! Promise me that you will find me and protect me! Please, trust me. Trust me!
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone