379 ANCESTORS

"Awaken." The voices were soft, unrelenting, as they spoke over and over again in her ear. "It is her turn."

"It is your turn."

"This gift is ours to you."

"Awaken and accept."

The whispers were getting closer and closer, and with a gasp, Christana awoke.

Her body was light, with little rivulets of sweat trickling down her body. "She is awake!" the whispers continued.

It was dark. Very much so.

The voices continued to whisper.

"The child is awake."

"Bring him over."

"The ancestor is coming."

"Quickly make way."

Christana was sure that she was hearing things. So she slowly closed her eyes. "Who's there." She asked with her eyes closed.

"The child is smart." The voices continued.

"Worry not child." One voice spoke up. It was an old woman's voice, and she was speaking in their ancient tongue.

"That's right. Worry not child."

"We do not meant to hurt you."

"We have no such thought. No such thought." The voices echoed.