I had finally had enough. Enough of my stepbrother's abuse and control. He had always had a temper, but after my mother died and my stepfather’s mind succumbed to old age, it became so much worse. I came home from the market that evening to find out he had promised me in marriage to Syllabus Arkane, one of my stepbrothers fellow guardsmen. Arkane was at least forty and I don’t think he has ever bathed, not even in summer when most people will take the risk.  So I packed what little was considered mine and ran away into the night. I didn’t think anyone would bother looking for me. Too much effort involved.  The farther I got from the hovel we lived, the lighter my steps became. But a little after midnight the air became chilly and I realized I should probably find some shelter to keep me warm till morning. My old and tattered cloak wouldn’t do much good on its

Felicia  I heard Gregor come in just before dawn. He brought with him the scent of cool mountain air and the crisp citrusy scent of crushed pine needles. He milled around for a moment or two, putting his things away it sounded like. I heard something clatter to the floor and he uttered something sharp under his breath.  “It’s alright, I'm awake,” I said.  “Ah. I'm sorry I was trying to be quiet.”  “I have breakfast to make anyway,” I said smiling to myself. I wondered if he realized he treated me more like his guest than his servant. But I wasn't going to bring it to his attention.  “I brought some herbs and fresh eggs.” I came from behind the curtain dressed and ready for my day. He handed me a leather satchel containing the supplies he h

Felicia  While Gregor slept that afternoon, I got to work on my clothes. It was exciting to have nice clothes. My fingers itched to work on the red cloak. But, I had to be practical. I needed sturdy dresses first. It was still a while before the cold weather would set in. Usually, I was careful to be quiet, but I got lost in thought while I was working, and before I realized it I was humming the old lullaby tune again.  “Do you know the story behind that song?” Gregor's voice startled me.  “Yes, it's about the legend of the Janus Wolves,” I replied.  “Indeed. Do you know where the legend came from?&r

 Felicia The next night when Gregor left for the night I stayed up. I sat in the dark by the window and waited. The moon was nearly full and the night was clear, so I could see the valley floor well. I wanted another glimpse at the red wolf or any of his companions. But the night was silent except for the insects that chirped in the grass and the trees. The moon wasps were out, trying to harvest as much nectar as possible before winter. Their bioluminescent blue glow blinked off and on throughout the undergrowth. Several night-blooming flowers grew in the valley. Fallen Stars with their abundant fire red petals, Midnight Violets whose black petals were a warning not to eat them, they would kill you in seconds, and  Luna Magnifica,&n

Gregor   Her eyes widened. She hadn't expected me to be so blunt. She glanced at the wolves again. She was trying to envision them as the legend described them.    I sighed heavily, I had a long story to tell and I was already exhausted. “Come inside,” I reached for her shoulder, but stopped just short of touching her, and let my arm fall. “I'll make us some tea and explain.” I turned and headed up the stairs, she seemed to hesitate for a moment, but soon I heard her light steps following me.    While I made the tea I tried to organize my thoughts, I knew I had to tell her the truth about the wolves, but how much should I tell her about myself? How much should I tell her about my suspicions? She had taken a seat at the table and silently