Chapter 30
In her dreams, Esme wandered through a desolate cave, searching for her mother—and the pearl. Water dripped ceaselessly down the walls. In the stale air she heard a voice, as if the rocks themselves were speaking.
You should not have come here. This is an ancient place, not for mortals. Here you will perish.
The pearl, and her mother, called out to her, but as she drew closer, they receded into the darkness. Shadows pressed down on her until she could hardly breathe. She fought her fear, raising a hand to shine some ashlight. There was no ashlight. She leaned against the rock wall. There was no weight to her. She no longer had a body.
There was nothing left of her but shadow.
A sharp tap on her shoulder roused her from the dream.
‘Esme, are you awake?’ asked Lillian.
She
