Beyond the Door

  Chapter 31 I felt suspended in a void, shrouded in darkness and emptiness. My body seemed to float, wracked with pain, as something within me stirred, threatening to awaken. But then, a mysterious light pierced the darkness, its gentle warmth easing the ache. The light guided the awakening force within me, calming its tumultuous stirrings. As the light faded, I sensed a newfound presence stirring, like a sleeping giant slowly rising. I'd been trapped in this void for what felt like an eternity, waiting patiently. Memories flooded back the rejection, the pain, the loss of consciousness. But as I reflected, I wondered if this darkness was a blessing in disguise, a respite from the anguish and sorrow that had defined my life. Perhaps this was the goddess's compensation, a merciful reprieve from the pain, sorrow and suffering. I didn't know if I was alive or dead, only that I'd been suspended in this void since the pain had receded. Now, I felt refreshed, stronger, and different. Somet