~~~

Meanwhile, far away...

Radansanth was quite the city to behold. It’s legendary citadel was the crowned jewel of Corone’s capital. The woman had taken a hotel room for a day or so, hoping to find a permanent home soon. She had traveled from across the country in hopes of staying here. She was eighteen, aimless, and in desperate desire for purpose.

The three story up hotel room was dainty and timid. The queen sized bed was neatly made with brown and white quilts and blankets. The nightstand next to it was currently cluttered with stuff from her alchemy kit. She had carelessly tossed her other possessions onto the bed; bags, sword, and all. Only her bow and quivers of arrows were leaned against the oak beam wall. She trudged by a cozy painting of Salvar’s northern lights, grabbing a pear from a fruit bowl on the desk. Taking a massive bite, she opened the glass door to the small balcony. Leaning against the rail, she closed her eyes. A pleasant breeze rustled her red hair. Savoring the soft, sweet pear, she opened her eyes again. The city below was crowded with busy folk, even in the evening. As the orange sun set in the purple sky, the towering Citadel cast a long shadow across the town of humble houses and markets. She was sure she heard a blacksmith somewhere in the distance, hammering metal into shape. The smell of fresh baked bread hit her nose. I have to go get some tomorrow!

Yet, something inside her being felt off. Her peridot eyes narrowed, she could feel eyes watching her. She knew what it was too. She pushed herself off the railing with a frustrated sigh.

It had been haunting her steps since she first stepped into Corone’s borders. It was not the eight o’clock chill that made her shiver, but him.

She could not see it yet, but it was here.

She slowly chewed the next bite of pear, looking around. The surrounding buildings showed no signs of the cream colored bird. She had to look at the neighboring balconies. Not there either. A scowl rumbled in her throat. A bout of frustration exploded in her chest. Then, she turned and looked up.

On the white shingles of the roof above, the owl stood vigilantly.

“You!” without thinking, she chucked the half eaten pear at the bird. In a split second, however, it took off. It seemed faster than the average fowl, silently taking off and soaring around. Watching the owl, she took a step back. Who knew why it was following her. She thought she was a fool to come out here unarmed! What did this thing want with her? Why was it haunting her, forever watching her every movement? Goosebumps formed on her pale, Eiskaltian skin as the owl found a perch on a balcony next to her. It watched, waited. Did it want her to speak? It’s amber eyes burned her, and she burnt herself with defensive rage.

She threw her arms, “What are you!?! Who are you?! What do you want with me?!”