I remained motionless for a while longer. Willabelle had already left, and I could now control my body, but I had no desire to get up.
The coolness of the tree seeped into my back, and the darkness of the sky closed in on me. It was as if the entire world, like an executioner freed from its chains, was determined to keep me pinned down.
I wiggled my fingers. Yes, my body was obeying me now. But my soul was still shackled. Her words were trapped between the anger in my eyes and the fog in my heart.
I slowly straightened up. As I lifted my torso, heavy as a stone burden, I staggered for a moment. My usual strength was there, but I still had a headache. She had probably made that paralyzing substance from plants she found in the forest, but I hoped it had no side effects.
