MOONBOUND

The Mysterious Stranger

Morning light filtered into Amelia's bedroom, casting a warm glow over the elegant decor. The luxurious surroundings of her room stood in stark contrast to the raw intensity of the previous night's events. Seated at her vanity, Amelia stared at the mark on her wrist, her mind a whirlwind of curiosity, fear, and determination. She knew she couldn't ignore what had happened. She needed answers.

As she brushed her hair, her thoughts drifted back to the message she had left for Evelyn. She hoped her friend would help her make sense of the dream and the mysterious mark. With a deep breath, she stood and headed downstairs, determined to meet Evelyn as planned.

---

The park where they often met was a tranquil place, with shaded paths winding through tall trees and a small, serene lake at its center. As Amelia walked along the familiar path, her mind raced with questions. Why was this happening to her? What did the mark mean?

She spotted Evelyn sitting on a bench near the lake, her blonde hair catching the morning sunlight. Evelyn stood up as Amelia approached, her hazel eyes filled with concern.

- Amelia, what's going on? You sounded so urgent - Evelyn said, giving her a quick hug.

Amelia took a deep breath, trying to gather her thoughts.

- I had this dream last night, and it felt so real. I was running through a forest, and then this mark appeared on my wrist. - She showed Evelyn the glowing symbol. - And it's still here.

Evelyn's eyes widened in shock.

- That's... impossible. What do you think it means?

- I don't know - Amelia admitted, her voice trembling. - But I found a book in the library. It talks about werewolves and prophecies. I think... I think I might be one of them.

Evelyn stared at her in disbelief, then slowly nodded.

- Okay, let's figure this out together. We'll find the answers.

As they sat on the bench, discussing the implications of Amelia's discovery, the park's tranquility was suddenly interrupted. A tall, imposing figure approached them, moving with a sense of purpose. Marcus, with his silver hair and piercing gray eyes, exuded an air of authority and mystery.

- Ladies - he greeted them with a slight nod. - I'm sorry to intrude, but I believe we need to talk.

Evelyn immediately bristled, her protective instincts kicking in.

- Who are you? What do you want? - she demanded.

Marcus remained calm, his gaze was fixed on Amelia.

- My name is Marcus. I know about your mark and your dream, Amelia. I've been searching for you.

Amelia felt a strange sense of trust toward him, despite Evelyn's obvious wariness.

- How do you know about me? - she asked.

Marcus sighed, glancing around as if checking for eavesdroppers.

- This isn't the best place to discuss it. But I can tell you this: you're not alone. There are others like you, and your mark signifies something very important.

Evelyn crossed her arms, still skeptical.

- And we're just supposed to trust you?

Marcus met her gaze steadily.

- You have every right to be cautious. But I promise, I'm here to help. Your lives are in danger because of who you are, Amelia.

The gravity in his voice made Amelia's heart race.