IN THE SHADOWS OF HEARTSTONE

CHAPTER TWO

THE BEGINNING

As the first light of dawn creeped over the horizon, Luna stood before the towering iron gates of the Shadow King's kingdom. Her fierce determination was evident in every step as she approached the imposing gates. Bri padded silently behind her after shifting to cat, her feline form a perfect disguise for the powerful shapeshifter.

As they approached the guard post, they noticed two heavily armed sentries stationed beside the giant drawbridge. One of them lazily scratched his neck, yawning from the boredom of the early morning shift. The other, more alert, eyed Luna and Bri warily as they drew near. "Halt!" . They stopped, his gaze flicking briefly to Bri before settling back on Luna. "What's your business in the kingdom?" He asked, anger evident in his tone. "I'm sorry, dear sir, is there a problem? I've traveled far and wide, sharing my songs with whoever will listen. I heard rumors that this kingdom values art and music. I couldn't help but feel drawn to this place, as if my very strings were tugging me towards it. Surely a kingdom as grand as this must have room for a humble minstrel like myself?" Luna replies calmly.

The guard eyed Luna skeptically, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. "Traveling minstrel, eh? Well, we don't usually allow strangers into the kingdom without proper clearance. But," he paused, looking Luna up and down, "for someone like you, I might make an exception. Sing something for me, and if I like it, I'll let you pass. But mind you, if you're lying about your intentions, there'll be trouble."
You have my word, good sir," Luna assured him, her voice soft yet resonating with honesty. "I am a simple minstrel, seeking only to bring joy through my music. I swear, you need not worry about any deceit from me."
Luna's eyes sparkled with unshed tears as she began to sing. Her voice, like a cascade of liquid silver, filled the air, carrying notes that seemed to dance and weave an enchanting spell around the guard.As the last note faded away, the guard stood in awestruck silence for a moment. Then, slowly, a smile crept across his weathered face. "Well now, that was a song to remember. You have a gift. Very well, I'll grant you entry." Luna exhaled deeply, a relieved smile spreading across her face. "Thank you, kind sir. Your generosity is most appreciated." She gently patted Bri's head as she turned to enter the kingdom gates. "Come along, Bri. Let's see what adventures await us in this new land." Eyes glinting with a mischievous, almost wicked light, Luna smirked at the guard as they sauntered through the gates. "It seems my little 'performance' has opened more than just the kingdom's doors, hasn't it Bri?" she whispered to her feline companion.

As they strolled through the cobblestone streets, Luna marveled at the bustling market. Stalls overflowed with colorful wares, the air filled with the mingled aromas of exotic spices, fresh bread, and fragrant flowers. "Oh, Bri, look at all this!" With a subtle nod to Bri, Luna steered them towards a stall laden with intricately crafted leather belts, pouches, and other seemingly innocuous accessories. She ran her fingers over an innocuously designed belt with a cleverly concealed dagger sheath. "This is perfect," she murmured softly. Luna arched an eyebrow at Bri, a silent communication passing between them. As Luna haggled with the vendor over the price, bri discreetly tucked a few other items into Luna's cloak - a set of throwing knives hidden within a ornate hair comb, a poison-tipped ring, and a small vial of sleeping dust disguised as a perfume bottle. Luna casually draped her cloak over her arm, concealing the stolen item as she continued to bargain. Once they'd moved on to the next stall, she leaned down and whispered to Bri, "Good job, little thief."

As the afternoon wore on, Luna and Bri wandered through the market, Luna whispered to Bri "phase one of mission, to enter in the kingdom is done". Bri whispered back "ready for phase two?". "You don't have to ask twice" Luna replies. "Phase two: become the talk of the town," Luna declared, her eyes glinting mischievously. "Let's put on a show tonight, Bri. Let's make sure everyone in this kingdom hums our tune by morning."
As the sun reached its zenith, casting a noonday glare over the kingdom, Luna and Bri began their impromptu performance in the town square. Her voice soared, enchanting the lunchtime crowds. As the last notes of Luna's song faded into the night air, the duo slipped away from the town square, melting into the shadows of the cobblestone streets. "We should find somewhere to lay low for the night," Luna said softly, her keen eyes scanning their surroundings.
Luna counted the coins tossed into their open pack during the performance. "We've got enough for a room at the Golden Lion Inn," she said, flashing a grin at Bri. "Tonight, we sleep in comfort." The Golden Lion Inn proved to be a cozy establishment, with a warm fire burning in the common room and the scent of freshly baked bread wafting from the kitchen. Luna and Bri were shown to a charming room with a plush bed and a window overlooking the bustling street below. As they settled in, Luna couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over her. It had been a long day, filled with excitement and uncertainty, but now they had a safe and comfortable place to rest. Luna moved quietly around the room, securing the doors and windows to ensure their privacy. She then carefully covered any mirrors and reflective surfaces, just to be extra cautious. Satisfied that they were alone, she turned to Bri and smiled. "Alright, it's time for you to change back," she said gently. Bri meowed softly in response, her form shimmering as she shifted back into her human guise. Luna helped her onto the bed, tucking the blankets around her. "We've done well today," Luna murmured. Bri looked at Luna with curiosity. "Why did we buy the weapons here, instead of bringing them in with us when we entered the kingdom?" she asked, her brow furrowed. Luna hesitated for a moment before answering. "I didn't want to arouse suspicion before the guards," she explained. "If they had seen us enter with weapons, they might have questioned our intentions or even barred us from entering the kingdom altogether," Luna continued, her voice low and serious. "By purchasing them here, we blend in more and avoid drawing unwanted attention to ourselves." Bri nodded and smiled, her form shimmering as she shifted back into her feline guise, curling up beside Luna. They slept peacefully, their exhaustion from the day's events finally catching up to them. The moon cast a silver glow through the window, illuminating their faces as they rested. The room was quiet, save for the gentle sound of Bri's soft purring as she slept beside Luna.

As the morning sun rose, casting golden rays upon the kingdom, Luna and Bri stirred in their cozy inn room. They rose, dressed, and prepared for the day ahead, their movements silent and practiced. After ensuring they were both presentable, they left the inn, melding into the bustling crowds. They made their way to a popular market square, known for its lively atmosphere and frequent performances. The air was thick with the smells of fresh bread, roasting meats, and exotic spices. Luna and Bri navigated through the crowds, their eyes scanning the area for the perfect spot to sing. Spotting an empty staircase leading to a second-floor balcony, Luna nodded towards it. "There," she said quietly to Bri. The two climbed the stairs, taking their places on the balcony's edge. Luna strummed a few chords on her lute, drawing the attention of passersby below. As Luna's enchanting melody filled the air, a hush fell over the crowd below. Mid-song, however, her performance was interrupted by the arrival of several royal guards. They climbed the stairs, their armor clinking with each step, and approached Luna and Bri. The lead guard, his face stern and unyielding, addressed Luna in a commanding tone. "By order of the king, you are to follow us immediately," he stated, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. "You are summoned to the palace."

To be continued...