The F7. The Fearless Seven. Fairytale Islands' mightiest heroes. Slayers of Dragons, Monsters, and Witches. Loved by all.

I thought they were just a bunch of pricks.

Granted I had only seen them once before. Considering I was a wanted witch myself, I liked to stay out of their line of sight. But the way they strutted about all smug, winking at beautiful girls, taking in the cheers and praise. It was all incredibly annoying to witness.

People like them hunted people like me.

Innocent or not.

It was very off-putting. I had heard stories of them defeating witches. One of those witches I had known. And while we weren't close at all, I knew she was a kindhearted woman who liked the company of animals more than humans. I didn't blame her. Animals are far less cruel than people, after all. Cuter too.

Either way, it was enough to strike anxiety and the smallest bit of fear in my heart.

The F7. In the town. Right now.

Not good.

I had just walked off from the baker's store I had stolen two pieces of bread from. That's when I spotted them in the crowd, some of them holding a piece of paper. Most likely a wanted poster. Usually, I'd opt to ignore it. But one look at them had my stomach dropping and my heart racing.

They were looking for me. I knew they were. I could feel it.

Taking deep breaths I pulled my hood over my head more. What should I do? I couldn't turn back, the only way to the exit was past them. Maybe I could walk right past and they'd ignore me.

Bowing my head, I walked forward. My heart raced faster and faster as the group got closer. I took notice that some of them had split off, looking elsewhere. The blue glow stick and Mr. Invisible were still in the main market. I'd have to keep an eye out for the others, and make sure I didn't run into them. Two are easier to lose than seven.

My plan went fairly well, I walked right past. The two didn't even spare a glance! I smile, the anxiety bubbling in my chest calming. I could see the exit right there and-

I tensed up and spun around. Glow stick had a hand on my shoulder, one that I shook off lightly as I turned. I couldn't waste time. I don't think he's seen my face just yet. "C-Can I help you?"

The man gave a small smile. "Sorry to disturb you, miss. But have you seen this girl?" He held out the wanted poster. The drawing on the paper wasn't great, but you could definitely recognize that it was me.

With a tense posture, I stated, "I'm sorry, but I haven't seen anyone who looks like that." I shook my head lightly as I said it.

His expression seemed disappointed at first. But my keen eyes caught it turning to suspicion as he leaned down slightly, trying to get a good look at my face. His eyes squinted and turned into a distrustful glare. "Are you sure?" He asked, his tone making me tense up even more.

He knows. He knows. He knows.

Run run run run.

Clearing my throat, "I'm quite sure." I fought off the urge to wince at the voice crack.

He stayed silent, scrutinizing me. The silence was unbearable as he observed me with glaring eyes. "I- I really must go." I said nervously as I turned on my heel, "Things to do, places to be." I went to walk off but a firm grasp on my wrist held me back.

"Don't think I'd just let you go that easy, witch." He said, a harsh cold tone in his voice.

The grip tightened as he opened his mouth to speak again. He seems to like talking. A loud roaring in the distance followed by screams of townsfolk cut him off. He looked back, startled, his hand loosening only slightly. But more than enough for me to pull myself from it.

I wasted no time in bolting for the exit. I only looked back to see if I was being followed but I saw him running towards the smoke and screaming instead. I couldn't help but let out a sigh of relief.

I didn't stop running till I got back to my hideout.