He was almost there when he heard a sob coming from the area between two of the many shops. It sounded like a little girl, and Tobias – after casting a nervous glance at the rest of the village – ran into the space. “Hello?” called out quietly. “Hello? Is anyone there?â€?

No one answered, and for a moment Tobias considered turning back. But then he heard it again, this time coming from farther back. So he continued forward, and soon found himself at a dead end. “Hello?â€? he called again. “Is anyone hurt?â€? Silence filled the space, and after a few moments Tobias turned around to leave. Before he could, a young woman stepped out of the shadows.

Her hair was as black as coal and her eyes were a sparkling green in color – they seemed almost to glow. “Hello Tobias,â€? she whispered. “It’s nice to see you again.â€?

“See me…again?” Tobias stuttered. “Have we met? Is that how you know my name?â€?

“Oh, I know more than that. I know everything about you. And speaking of knowing, I have a favor to ask you…â€?