Seven-year-old Ilia ran deeper into the forest, searching for a hiding spot. When she had found a small nook, she slipped into it and curled up, hiding herself from view.
It was dark when Ilia realized that neither Talo nor Beth had shown up. Ilia slid out of her hiding place with a modicum of fear. She glanced around and had no idea where she was. Ilia's panic grew. Tears began welling up in her eyes.
"Are you lost?" a voice asked brightly. Ilia shrieked and spun to face the speaker.
It was a young boy, maybe a bit older than herself, dressed in an all-black tunic. His wheat coloured hair was topped with a floppy cap and a black dagger hung from his belt. He smiled at Ilia. She felt a blush creep over her cheeks.
"I don't know where I am." Ilia confessed.
"I'll help you," The boy assured, "I'm Sable, by the way." Ilia wiped away the tears still threatening to fall.
"I'm Ilia." She said gratefully.
Ilia waved goodbye to Sable as she scurried out of the woods. Sable stood there for a while, even after Ilia had left.
"She's cute. Your girlfriend?" a young man's voice spoke into the silence. Sable's pale face reddened.
"Father!" Sable shouted. Dark chuckled.
"Honest question, my little shadow." Dark said holding his hands up in surrender. Sable narrowed his eyes, but didn't comment.
"Teach me your sword standing trick." Sable demanded. Dark looked hesitant.
"Come on, Father. Please…" Sable cajoled.
"Fine, but be careful, damnit."