Foxcall Tower
The tall man slowed to a stop, turning his head to the side towards the low wooden bench
beside him, upon which sat a line of women.
Their wrists were bound in leather, and each of them wore thick leather collars, a heavy metal
hoop hanging from the front. Running through this hoop were chains, holding them in place.
Slaves. They were to be sold soon at auction.
One of the women caught the attention of the tall man, the one at the end of the line, and he
could not look away.
'My gosh…' the tall man breathed, 'you're…'
'Ugly' the woman finished; head bowed. 'I know.'
'No' the tall man shook his head. 'You're the most beautiful girl I've ever seen…'
She raised her head then, eyes wide in disbelief. At that moment, a gust of wind lifted the cloth
that covered the tall man, and she was able to get a glimpse of his head.
Her heart skipped a beat, and she let out a slight gasp. What she saw beneath the cloth was not
what she had expected.
Beneath the black fabric was the skull of an animal, with curved horns and eyes that glowed
gold in dark sockets.
The girl knew instantly then what he was. He was a mage, a rare creature, and one both greatly
feared and revered.
The girl never thought she would ever see one in her life.
'There is a different sort of strength found in love. Forgiveness does not make you weak' –
Beatrice.
'I would smile if I could. Of course I have thoughts and feelings. I may not be entirely human
anymore, but some parts of the person I used to be still remain' – Vladislav.