From Shadows to Light | Chapter 2

Faith, Inspiration, Community, A Christian Fantasy Novel

From Shadows to Light

Book 1 | The Awakening Chronicles

Chapter 2 | The Invitation

River sat at her desk, staring at the blinking cursor on her screen. The email was open in front of her, its words practically daring her to respond. Wow, stunned for words, I can’t do anything other than sit there looking at the screen as if it’s going to change. I should be excited as all outdoors, but my nerves are getting the absolute best of me. Sure I asked for this, years of building and preparing myself for this moment, I guess in the back of my mind I wasn’t really prepared for the actual invitation. Holy Yahweh, you did it again. The Waymaker, the Promise Keeper, Miracle Worker- this is what I prayed for. So why do I feel so terrified and scared as heaven? Being an Inspirational Speaker and a Best-Selling Author has been my desired vocation since only God knows when. But here I am almost 4 years after coming across Jim Rohn’s speeches, I’m sitting in front of my laptop staring down the invitation that I’ve been working towards.

I’m not even bothered by my lisp anymore, because I accepted it as a part of me. Like, it’s not that I sound like Donald Duck or anything, but growing up I was always so self-conscious of it once my siblings and I started branching off having our own friends. It was then that I was told I had a lisp, because before that, I had no freaking clue. None of my sisters or brothers noticed and the adults never really pointed it out because, well why would they. No, I’m pretty sure it’s just me, not just me being in a large crowd, but speaking to that crowd. Oh my gosh, my thoughts have their own thoughts and are just making their own lives now. Who would have known that people actually read the bottom of the Youtube descriptions on videos.

Okay, River get yourself together, you were created for this, you were made for this. I begin doing my countdown, ‘9,7,5,3,1, Yahweh Father, please take this burden of fear and cast it onto the Spirit within and with it I go free.’ It’s been the only thing other than straight out prayer that calms my nerves. It was an invitation to speak at the upcoming Women’s Empowerment Conference in Toronto, a major event that attracted a diverse audience, including Christian influencers, activists, and spiritual leaders from across the country.

The invitation had come from Elaine Patterson, a well-known organiser who had been following River’s journey for a while. When she first followed me on Instagram I thought it was a fan account or maybe a bot. I’m not one of those big shot influencers/content creators, I just got my account past the 1000 subscriber mark. Woop woop, your girl finally got monetized. It’s hard out here in these streets mane. That Cuban Q Jr. song, wait no, that doesn’t sound right… what’s his name, the Physicist, the actor from Empire, ahhh Cuban Gooding Jr, You know it’s hard out here for a pimp, when you tryna get that money for the rent. Yea yea, just because I’m scripture-based doesn’t mean all the songs that are wrapped up in this genius of a brain automatically disappeared. I didn’t care for the movie, but that is a catchy arse song.

River knew the significance of the offer. It was an opportunity to reach a wider audience, to share her transformation from a spiritualist to a scripture-based believer, and to inspire others who might be on the fence about their own spiritual journeys. But it was also a double-edged sword. The backlash could be fierce, especially from those who remembered her past and weren't too happy about her newfound faith. Her thoughts were tangled in a web of excitement and fear. Even her mother only remembers when she would listen to subliminal messages of the Universe. But even Jesus knew that it's those you grew up with are the hardest hearts to soften towards you.

“Are you going to stare at that email all day, or are you actually going to reply?” Jade’s voice crackled through River’s laptop speakers.

River glanced up from her screen to see Jade’s face on the video call, her friend’s expression a mix of amusement and concern. “I’m thinking,” River replied, leaning back in her chair. “This is a big deal, Jade. I mean, do you know how many people are going to be there? And what if... what if they remember... you know, the old me?”

Jade rolled her eyes. “Of course they will, Riv. That’s the whole point. You were a powerful misguided witch. We can just thank Yahweh you weren’t Dark and didn’t do any of the unforgivables.” I look at her as she continues “you know drinking blood, sacrificing animals, plants or whatever those witches be sacrificing to their false gods.” Well, she does have a point, well minus using the other realms to find and punish those who hurt children and piss me off. What can I say, I had a bit of a temper and why would I risk getting arrested in the waking realm when I could walk freely’ish in the others. Interrupting my back slip into the past, Jade continues “you’ve got a story to tell—a powerful one. And trust me, people need to hear it. Plus, when have you ever let a bunch of judgmental strangers stop you?” Once again she has a point. It doesn’t matter how nervous or scared I’ve gotten, I was always that girl that stared danger down that barrel. Not that I’ve ever had a gun pointed in my face… well kinda (not including my crazy ex boyfriend when I was a teen). What a girl gots to do to stay alive and protected in the hood. Date the baddest guy and gain any ounce of protection you can muster up. See what happens when you allow your thoughts to do what they want, they travel back into the past that you crawled your arse out of on your hands and knees. Uhhh I so love recaps, no we’re not thinking about that. Behave yourself ‘Conscious thoughts’ because we’re taking our asses to that Conference and inspiring women like us to do the heavenly thang. Okay

River sighed, knowing Jade had a point. She had never been one to shy away from controversy or challenge, but this felt different. This was about her faith, her beliefs, and everything she stood for now. “I just don’t know if I’m ready for that kind of exposure,” she admitted.

“Ready or not, sometimes you just have to take the leap,” Jade said, her voice gentle but firm. “Think of Esther.”

River’s brows furrowed. “Esther?”

“Yeah, you know, Queen Esther from the Bible. She had to go before the king, risking her life to save her people. She didn’t know if she was ready either, but she trusted God. Maybe this is your moment, Riv - perhaps you were made for such a time as this.”

River was about to respond when another face popped up on the screen. Amina, with her bright scarf and equally bright smile, joined the call. “Hey, ladies! What’s up? And why do you both look so serious?”

Jade filled her in quickly. Amina’s eyes widened with excitement. “Riveria, you have to do it! This is huge! And besides, if you don’t go, how will I ever get a chance to debate with you in public?”

River chuckled. Amina, a Muslim influencer with a love for intellectual sparring, had always been one of her biggest supporters, even if they didn’t see eye-to-eye on everything, especially Jesus. Regardless if Amina accepted it or not she was still a child of God. Muslims and Jewish are quite similar in that department, they believe in the same God, they just don't accept Jesus as their Savior. “Oh, I’m sure you’d find a way,” River replied, smiling.

Before she could say more, another notification popped up—Tanya had joined the call. Tanya was a skeptic, still figuring out where she stood on the whole faith spectrum, but she had been following River for a while and had grown to respect her honesty, openness and Truth.

“Hey, everyone,” Tanya greeted, her voice cautious but curious. “What’s the big debate about this time?”

River filled Tanya in on the invitation, and after a moment of silence, Tanya spoke up. “Look, I’m not gonna pretend I’m all into this faith stuff like you guys, but I’ve been following you for a reason, River. You’re real and you've never been one to colour up the facts, much less the Truth. It's one of the reasons why I read your work and subscribe to your channel. You don’t sugarcoat things. Maybe that’s what people need to see—something real.”

River felt a warmth in her chest at Tanya’s words. It was true; she never pretended to be something she wasn’t. That had been her guiding principle throughout her life. Be real, be honest, and let people decide for themselves.

“Okay, fine,” River said, a hint of a smile on her lips. “I’ll do it. But if this goes south, I’m holding all of you responsible for my pity basket”

The group cheered, and Amina laughed. “That’s the spirit! And hey, if you get booed off stage, just remember we’re here to help you pick up the pieces.”

Sophia smiled, feeling a mix of anxiety and anticipation. “Yeah, yeah. Thanks, guys. I mean it. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to figure out what to wear other than my hobo attire. Somehow I don't think it'll be a good fit for the crowd (whatever the mix was).”

The group chuckled, and Jade added, “Just be yourself, Riv. That’s all anyone can ask for.”

After the call ended, River leaned back in her chair, staring at the ceiling. “Esther, huh?” she muttered to herself. She had always admired the story of Queen Esther—her bravery, her faith, her willingness to stand up for her people even when it meant risking her life. Maybe Jade was right. Maybe this was her moment to step up and be brave.

That night, Sophia went to bed early, her mind still buzzing with thoughts about the conference. As she drifted off to sleep, the familiar fog of a dream enveloped her, pulling her into another vivid vision.

River found herself in a grand palace, the air thick with incense and the chatter of courtiers. She was dressed in royal robes, her reflection shimmering in the polished marble floor. She felt a weight on her head and reached up to touch a crown—heavy and cold, yet oddly comforting.

She glanced around, recognizing the setting from countless Bible stories and illustrations. It was the Persian palace of King Xerxes. The realisation sent a shiver down her spine. She wasn’t just anywhere; she was in the story of Esther.

Sophia walked forward, her footsteps echoing in the vast hall, until she reached a set of massive doors. Beyond them, she could hear the murmur of voices, the sound of people waiting, watching. Her heart pounded in her chest as she pushed the doors open and stepped inside.

The throne room was immense, filled with people of all ranks and statuses. At the far end sat King Xerxes, his expression stern and unreadable. River’s mouth went dry as she approached him, her knees trembling slightly. The king had a powerful feral air about him, intensifying with a mix of arousal. ‘Down girl’ she mumbled to herself, feeling the low strained growl escaping her throat.

She stopped a few paces away, bowing low. “My lord,” she began, her voice surprisingly steady. “I come before you today to plead for my people.”

The king raised an eyebrow, his gaze piercing. “And who are your people, River?” he asked, his voice deep, commanding, but wait- there was also a hint of amusement in his gray irises.

River felt a surge of annoyance as she met his gaze. Was he… flirting with her as if he didn't know that his refusal right now could mean her death. Okay husband dearest, now it's my turn. “They are the ones who seek Truth, who long for something more than what this shell of a world has to offer. Those that are lost, searching, and are in great need of a voice to guide them.” Because she couldn't help herself, she added “those willing to risk everything, no matter the cost.”

The king leaned back, his eyes narrowing. “And you believe you are that voice?”

River, no longer scared, “I believe, we all are called and we all are expected to give an account to the one who rules all Kings. But I can’t do it alone. I need your support, your protection.”

The king studied her for a long moment, the silence in the room growing thicker with each passing second. Finally, he nodded and I could see amusement twinkle in his eyes. “Very well, Esther.”

River nodded, her heart racing as she slowly exhaled a breath she wasn't aware she was holding in. “You’re most generous, my king.” No matter what she and the king revealed in private, she wouldn’t make the mistake that resulted in her queendom. The previous queen, Basti, forgot her place and position, she believed herself equal to the King and refused him publicly. As she turned to leave, the room began to fade, and she heard a voice—soft, yet powerful—whisper in her ear. “Do not be afraid, River. You are not alone. I am with you.”

River woke with a start, her heart hammering in her chest. The dream felt so real, so intense, like a message meant just for her. She sat up, running a hand through her hair, trying to calm her racing thoughts.

“Queen Esther,” she whispered to herself. “I have to go. I have to go to the conference.”

She grabbed her phone and dialed Jade’s number, knowing her friend would be awake. Jade answered on the second ring, her voice groggy but alert. “Rive? What’s going on?”

“I had another dream,” Sophia said quickly. “Esther. It was Esther. I need to do the fast.” Sometimes my dreams take hours for me to make sense of them, luckily for me Father wants me to get started right away.

Jade was silent for a moment, then she said, “Okay. I’m with you. What do you need me to do?”

“I need you to fast with me,” River replied. “For three days. Just like Esther did. We need to prepare.”

Jade didn’t hesitate. “You got it. When do we start?”

River glanced at the clock, just minutes before sunrise “Now. We start now.”

Jade agreed, and after a quick goodbye, River hung up, feeling a sense of determination settle over her. She didn’t know what would happen at the conference, but she knew one thing for sure—she was going to stand up, just like Esther, and plead for her people. Her followers, her community, her friends, her ministry.

As she prepared for the fast, River felt a strange calm wash over her. She was ready. Ready to face whatever came her way, knowing that Yahweh Father was with her. And she would do everything in her power to bring others closer to Him, no matter the cost.

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Be blessed and stay loyal and faithful Friend

Love Always,

Val