The Story of Innocent
She came from a place of wealth, privilege and promise. Every need was taken care of, though not every want, for her parents knew that feeding Want spoils a child. She was taught kindness, compassion and love for others. Giving, blessing and discretion became her nature, and contentment filled her heart.
The day of his arrival was just like any other and no one suspected the evil of his intent. He was charming, handsome and attentive. He hung on her every word. Subtly wooing Innocent to slaughter, Deceiver asked for her hand in marriage. Though she thought she loved him, a small whisper inside of her caused Innocent to ask for more time. Keeping in his pursuit, Deceiver asked if she would picnic with him in the East Woods near the flowing stream. Willingly, she went armed with nothing more than love and trust. They followed the road to the fork where Deceiver continued on the way toward the Forbidden Forest. Innocent stopped, assured him it was the other path and that she was not to go down the path he was on. Deceiver masterfully cajoled sweet Innocent until she agreed to follow. Soon down the wrong path, she began to feel cold, uncertain and terrified, pleading with Deceiver to turn back. He refused to listen and pressed on, heading deeper into the Forbidden Forest. Innocent longing for her home of warmth, safety, security and love, turned and ran. Deceiver, determined to keep his prize, relentlessly hunted her down. Just as he was about to grab the back of her cloak, he was struck from the side, knocked to the ground. Dazed and confused, he looked up to discover the father of Innocent standing over him, weapon at his throat.
"You are dismissed, vile Deceiver! Leave this place and never return. I assure you, I will not be so merciful next time." Father held his beloved Innocent, as together they watched Deceiver slink away into the darkness, revealing the coward he truly was.
Now standing in safety, Innocent begged Father's forgiveness for her disobedience by entering the Forbidden Forest and asked him to take her back home. With all the love in his heart, he kissed her forehead and hugged her tightly, promising her then and there, that no matter where his Innocent was, he'd be there too, her valiant protector, and that her home was always with him.
