Silvery-Edged Black Cloud

SIX MONTHS LATER

Oh my Hera! is the only thought I can process as I run down the street, something following me with unnatural speed. I wasn’t sure what it was, just that I had to get away. It growled and snarled from behind me, snapping its teeth sharply in attempt to capture me.

“Stay away!” I yell, frightened, running faster. I spin around suddenly, watching as the creature advances on me. I hold my arms up as an automatic reflex.

But, what happened surprised me. The beast flew back in one furious yelp. I didn’t stay in a daze for even a fraction of a second. I went running down the slippery street, the muggy air clouding my senses, as the icy cold rain felt like bullets against my skin. My instincts took over. I just knew that I had to get away!

I skid along the pavement, running down the thin alleyway. The savage monster followed steadily behind me, making me pray that I wouldn’t trip.

A dead end. It had me cornered.

I felt a scream build up in my threat, as I stared into the monstrous eyes of the hunter. His bloody auburn hair bristled warningly, as he bared his teeth — which were a gruesome black — a savage snarl escaping his throat. I knew this was it. There was no turning back. This is where my end is.

When, suddenly, he dropped to the ground, sizzling into smoky ashes. My eyes were wide as I looked around, desperate to know who my savior was this time.

“Come on,” Donovan says, his hand outstretched, “We don’t have much time.”