With an unexpected flutter noise behind me, and I turned. Seeing and not quite thinking, I thought a new test of my responses had started.

It was a compelling vision of a woman.. with semi-transparent dual wing sets.

Her expression immediately made me comfortable (like I had been surprised by an older sister).

It was what was not there anymore. A dim theatre room. None of the image equipment was running, and there was no sign of the succubus.

So, when I returned to look at the winged woman, she was quite close. Her head tilted forward so our eyes were very close.

“Tell me, child. We have not observed any soul pacts on your body or soul. Did someone make you think that you were bound to obey the.. creature.. that just fled away?

Would you seek refuge from.. well, unwanted manipulations?

I sense so little guile in you. Do you really feel safe in this situation?”