Lost and Alone

[Flamebird]

The crowd was large, and all wrapped up in the priest's chanting. Adjusting my hat, I walked close and veered towards the edge of the crowd. I felt my heart pounding. As the priest continued his sermons, I squeezed my coffee mug. It was cold, but I was sweating.

Still, I was lucky. I made it to the other side of the crowded area with no notice. Freedom was near! I just needed to walk down the rest of the street, then I was safe.

Then, white robes jumped in front of me. I stopped abruptly and looked up. Garnished in religious trinkets, another priest stood in front of me. His tall, colorful hat was a tower blocking my way. He clasped his hands together, "Child, why such a hurry? Are you not intrigued by the Ethereal Sway's blessings?"

I might as well have been somewhat honest. "I'm not from around here and need to get home. I'm in a bit of a hurry here."

The priest slowly, steadily blinked. "Ah, yes. The rushers. They go to and fro without stopping to observe the Ethereal Sway's teachings."

I don't worship your stupid Ethereal Sway! "I really need to go, sir."

I felt the pressure of the crowd behind me, and the towering priest before. Claustrophobic, they pressed in under the Cathedral's looming dominance. Would my secrets be discovered? My head whirled. I felt light.

The priest leaned in, a little too close. I took a step back as he spoke, "I sense tension, child. Do you hide your sins?"

"No." I barked, panting, "I need to go!"

The priest leaned closer. His breath was warm and uncomfortable against my neck, "You hide. You run. But you cannot escape the shadows of your forbidden powers. Run while you can, for we hunt the unrepentant."

I dropped my mug. The coffee splashed on the ground and his robes. He was unmoved, he just glared into my very soul.

How does he know!?

I ducked and veered, kicking the empty mug. As voices berated harshly behind, I ran as fast as I could towards the city gates.