Chapter 45. Tirria

One second, she was conversing with Daya, and the next, she found herself on the ground, on the other side of the forest, confused with the force of what had just taken place.

She tried to get up but found she could not. Something held her down. Something that someone had done to make her unable to even move. "Here—give me your hand, let me help you."

Lady Lucia looked up to see Illiana, her second in command, holding out her hand to her. She shook her head wonderingly. "How did you get—?"

"That does not matter now, just take my hand and let me help you up, and then we can talk." Illiana's voice was soft and kind. Her countenance did not betray any vindictiveness.

Lady Lucia nodded and took the proffered hand. Immediately their fingers touched, she felt an alien feeling engulf her. It slunk through her veins, and permeated her limbs. Within seconds, it was over and she went limp. 

"It is done!" She heard Illiana say to someone. She could not see th