Young Writers Society

I remember that day-

I remember the hills shadowed by the glow of the brilliant morning sun behind it- Anna was always amazing at raising the sun. That day was no different, and yet it was different...

I remember Alkasis sitting beside me; she was sharpening her knife. Occasionally glancing up to see our sister’s progress. Alkasis’ brick red hair would continue blowing across her tanned face, and my hair was doing the same- but there was no wind that day.

I remember looking back with Alkasis; Eremiel and Phanuel, called to Alkasis. Father needed her. Alkasis stood and joined the two angels. Her wings fanned out in their blood red glory. She disappeared with a small flash of light and Eremiel followed suit, giving me a miniscule smile. I turned back to the hill, continuing to gaze at the sunrise- unaware of Phanuel’s unwavering presence. The sun had just peeked over the hill, throwing its blinding, fiery rays across the meadows.

I remember seeing Anna appearing on the hill in front of the sun. I couldn’t see her face, only her silhouette. She waved, and I waved back. I climbed to my feet, preparing to meet Anna at the top of the hill.

I remember unfurling my wings and stepping forward...

Time seemed to slow down.

My wings pushed back and begin to pull forward with a swish, lifting me from the grassy floor.

My wings catch on something just out of view… I try once more, forcefully this time. 

Nothing-

I turned my head back; in search of what was stopping me.

Phanuel held onto my left wing with one hand. In the angel's right hand- a knife reflected the rays of the sunrise. Concern encased my being, but I could not seem to speak. My mouth was filled with a sour taste, I could hear the blood pounding in my ears.

I tried to free my wing from his grasp, to no avail.

I finally managed to form a sentence. It came out small, almost pitiful, “Phanuel… what are you doing?” My voice quivered, my eyes never once looked away from the dagger; the bringer of death. It seemed to be calling my name, as if I would be its next sheath.

I was incorrect. The knife sliced through the air.

Pain; I no longer felt fearful, nor was I concerned for my safety. I shut my eyes, the blood that roared in my ears had become deafening. There was an agonizing pain, radiating from my left shoulder- a warm liquid was forming, soaking into my silvery dress.

… Pain… 

Phanuel was no longer standing near me… he was a few yards away, close to where he and Eremiel had first appeared. He held my wing in his grasp… Red stained the tan feathers- my tan feathers. The angel let the knife fall from his grasp, then he too was gone. As was my wing. I never understood why he only took the one.

I remember turning back to look at Anna on the hill… She seemed to be making her way towards me. I could hear the faint call of my name from her. 

I didn't know that the meadows would be the last I seen of my home for some time. I couldn't seem to find my voice anymore, so I looked at the sun... the grassy meadows... my sister. I wish I could have hugged her. 

I wasn't aware that I was crying at first. Not until the tears began blurring my vision. I must have understood what would become of me. That this would be the last time I see my home.

I remember feeling blank. I couldn't feel anger, or fear. The excruciating pain I felt only moments before was gone. I wasn't worried or sad. It was all gray.

Just before the small tug at my feet…

 And I fell…