The Nox: Zahir

Chapter 1 Isolation

As the sun set over the desolate rooftops of the orphanage, casting long shadows that seemed to mirror the confusion swirling within her, Zahir gazed out of her small, barred window. The girl of Unknown race, with her dark skin, dark hair and elf-like pointed ears, yearned for something beyond the walls that confined her. She longed to uncover the mystery shrouded in her very existence.

When Zahir was an infant, she was left at the orphanage in a rather unconventional manner. Instead of the typical drop-off, she was discovered nestled in a peculiar square black basket. The sight of baby Zahir, snugly wrapped in a blanket and peacefully asleep, with only her tiny head visible,showing her adorable face with rosy cheeks and dark, glistening skin, was quite extraordinary. Inside the basket, alongside the infant, a note was found, accompanied by a key. The note, partially obscured by ink, revealed her name as Zahir and implored the caretakers to care for her. Furthermore, it mentioned that when she reaches the age of 19, the key enclosed was meant to unlock a hidden compartment within the very basket itself.

In the dimly lit interior of the orphanage, Zahir always felt like an outcast, a black rose in garden of vibrant colors. The other children seemed to find solace in their shared otherness, while she was left to navigate a world that craved conformity. Their whispers of an unknown heritage and whispers of her enigmatic identity only made her yearning grow stronger. Who was she? And why did she possess these unique traits?

What is the nature of my existence? She asked, her voice tinged with sorrow. And who or what brought me into this world. These thoughts permeate her mind, latching onto it like a tic on a dogs skin. Her contemplation was interrupted by a familiar voice.

"Lost in thought again, sweetheart," said the gentle voice of the caring caretaker of the orphanage. "If you keep your head in the clouds too much, you might find it harder to come down."

Zahir turned around and was met by Mama Troosdale, the wise and elderly head Sapient of the orphanage. At 173 years old, Mama Troosdale had dedicated over a century of her life to caring for the children. Known for her nurturing nature and deep compassion, she would always try to reassure them and provide comfort, even if she needed to occasionally offer guidance.

"Are you feeling okay, dear? You look sad, and you know Mama doesn't like to see you or any of the other children upset."

"I'm fine, Mama. Just lost in thought," Zahir replied, hinting at the complexities of her contemplation.

Mama Troosdale had a feeling that Zahir was holding back, sensing there was more to the story than she was letting on. Rather than prodding her for answers, she opted to patiently wait until she felt comfortable enough to confide in her.

"Well, my dear, don't think too hard then. Come on down, it's time for dinner. We're having delicious beef stew with warm cornbread."

She took a deep whiff, allowing the fragrant tendrils of Mama Troosdale's cooking to envelop her senses. The rich, mouthwatering aroma of the beef stew danced enticingly in the air, teasing her taste buds. As she inhaled, the tantalizing blend of savory scents intertwined, filling her nostrils with a medley of roasted meats, caramelized onions, and earthy herbs.

The beef, slow-cooked to perfection, released a delectable essence that mingled with the vibrant presence of freshly harvested vegetables. Carrots, sliced into tender rounds, exuded a subtly sweet aroma, while the earthy notes of potatoes lent an underlying comforting warmth to the dish. Fragrant herbs like rosemary and thyme infused the stew with a tantalizing hint of freshness, enhancing each mouthful with delightful bursts of flavor.

Mama Troosdale's expertise didn't stop at the beef and vegetables. The scents of her secret spices, carefully blended to create a divine symphony in every spoonful, filled the room. Notes of warm paprika and smoky cumin intertwined with hints of nutmeg and cloves, giving the stew a complex and unforgettable taste. The zesty tang of garlic wafted through the air, adding its distinct touch to the mix.