Chapter Seventy two - Sands of deception II

~.NOVA.~

I gasped as my eyes fluttered open, and I found myself lying on soft grass. The memory of sinking into the quicksand is still fresh in my mind.

I composed myself, lifting myself to my feet as I looked around, Horia and Aret starting in different directions.

"Aret! Horia!" I called out to them but to no avail.

"Nova."

I froze, my heart pounding in my chest. I heard my name, clear and distinct as if carried by the wind. My breath hitched as I felt a cool breeze on my skin, and goosebumps rose. I closed my eyes, hoping it was a trick of my imagination, but the presence was undeniable.

"Won't you look at me?" My heart broke as I heard those words, I must be delusional, Hearing the voice of the dead.

Or I must be dead too.

But I didn't feel dead, I didn't feel hollow or empty. I could still hear my heartbeat.

"Nova," the presence called out to me again as I turned, I clamped my hand over my mouth as tears flowed.

"Daddy?" My voice quivered as I took hesitant steps toward him. I