Once again, sleep eluded me, my mind adrift with restless thoughts. What if my fears were not mere imaginings? What if the hybrid Demon truly intended to visit me tonight?
I lay in my bed, clutching the sheets to my chest. Aiyana had suggested that I ask Dori to stay with me, to ease my fears. Dori had been in my room earlier; she had helped me into my nightdress, lit the candles, and then departed. I hadn't mustered the courage to ask her to stay—I felt too shy.
The creaking of my door startled me. How long had I lain awake? Had the monster at last decided to reveal itself?
My lips trembled with fear, and I sat up in bed. The sound of shuffling feet echoed at the entrance, and I forced myself to speak.
"Who is it? Who is there?" I called out, my eyes straining to discern a figure in the darkness.
A soft voice responded, "It is I, my lady."
