The usually warm-feeling given off by the torches scattered throughout the stone city cast different tones that night. Instead of the norm, the light was somehow ominous and unsettling, much like torches carried by mobs of villagers, along with ropes and pitchforks. And, indeed, this night deserved this cast; the events in play were ill-suited to comforting illuminations.

High above the majority of the eerie torches, a window sat overlooking the city. In this window's room, the palpable tension was easily picked up by the inhabitants.

"They will be coming." A quiet voice broke the silence. A young girl, no more than fourteen, stood by the window, gazing at the city. Her city. Despite her age, it was apparent through her voice that she had endured far many things beyond her years. With a sigh, she closed her eyes and adjusted the gold band around her head.

"Shall we, then?" This voice, a smooth purr, had a completely different owner. A golden striped bat, massive by Overland standards, though rather small for her species, fluttered down from where she hung on the ceiling, landing next to the girl.

"I suppose we must." The girl swiftly mounted the flier, her bond, taking nothing but the sword on her belt, though the two did not plan on returning for quite awhile. The pair shot through the window just as rapid footsteps could be heard echoing off the stone floor. They may as well have been drum beats.

Three guards on foot entered, swords drawn. Immediately, the room was searched, though it was apparent that the guards were the only ones there. Disappointedly, the guard in command trudged to the window, sword still drawn, cursing under his breath at the silhouette that was now disappearing at the edge of his vision.

"They have left, then?" The question, obviously rhetorical, came from a tall, built man dressed in finery that had just entered the room. At his hip was a long sword with a gleaming silver sheath and a jewel encrusted hilt, obviously more for show than for battle. He stroked his well-groomed beard that grew off his imposing chin in thought.

"Yes, my lord," the guard by the window answered glumly, staring at his feet, fidgeting. It was very clear that the guards feared this man, for whatever reasons.

"Very well." There was a hint of impatience in the man's voice as he fixed his venomous gaze on the guard. "It is done. Waste no time now. Bring me the queen. Alive." There was a short pause, but almost no hesitance as he added two more words. "If possible."


Disclaimer: TUC is not owned by me (-sniffle-)...OCs are... I wish I had better disclaimers...