Jar of Hearts: An Anthology

Blackwell Castle: A Writing Prompt

''Darkness is upon us,'' I said as I trotted uphill. Overhead, black clouds gathered, threatening to swallow the beloved town we just left with a raging storm. Cracks of lightning pierced the horizon, lighting the atmosphere as if it was day. A chilly draft blew, cooling my hot, sweaty face.

''Where are we headed?'' Nasyalenzki asked as she turned to follow me.

''There,'' I said, pointing my finger to the forgotten structure that lay ahead.

''Blackwell Castle?'' she asked. ''Why are we going there? Aren't we supposed to leave town the soonest?''

I sighed. I stared at the Castle in front of us. Blackwell. The reminder of a life best forgotten. Its Roman columns and pillars were browned with years of disuse and abandonment. Its bricked walls and arched windows were stained with moss and overgrowth. I never imagined returning to the place, yet here I was, looking at the very structure that witnessed a secret only I and the dead knew. ''Yes,'' I answered, looking at her. ''We have no choice. A storm is coming. We will get lost in the woods if we do not take shelter.''

''Okay,'' Nasyalenzki nodded, unsuspecting. She offered a small, hesistant smile as she continued to follow my steps.

Darkness is not coming, I thought as I smiled at Nasyalenzki. Darkness is already here. I am here.