Moon Of Gold

Chapter 3: Julian

      The guild returns back to normal after the odd encounter. It doesn't seem like anyone cares right now. There are a few faces that seem disgusted and angry, even annoyed. Whatever it is, Silvaus doesn't seem a tad bit annoyed. He's calmer than anyone else.
        "Go after him" Silvaus whispers.
      I turn my head and frown, "Are you sure? He might think I hate him like the others and run as soon as he sees me. I don't need a bad reputation!" I answer back, angrily whispering.
      He chuckles, "I'm pretty sure a beautiful young lady like you, would soften him up." I narrow my eyes and frown at his teasing words.
      I place my hands on my hips, "So be it. If I die, it's your fault." I let out a heavy sigh and head towards the door. Behind me, I could hear the voices of some concerning werewolves. Yep, I'm sure this is a great idea!

***

      I step outside. Then I hear a huff. I take a couple of steps forward, scanning my surroundings. Surprisingly, I spot him.
      My body tenses and I stand there, watching him. The man is sitting near the river, head hanging. Taking small steps towards him, I hold my breath. I didn't want to bother him but Silvaus had other plans. I swear sometimes I didn't understand that man.
      I stand an inch behind him, waiting. Would he notice me? A minute or two passes by and still no response. Okay, I guess he doesn't know, time to leave. No, I couldn't leave! I somewhat made a promise to Silvaus...sort of. I said okay to a forced promise. I really am gullible, aren't I?
       I slowly yet, cautiously place a hand on his shoulder. My brain is screaming. My heart is beating out of my chest again and I feel like I'm going to faint. This is overwhelming and I feel like I'll just die. I have no idea who this random person was. This murderer?
      No. I can't think like this. I'm sure it was self-defense. Werewolf hunters are literally the worst next to homicidal magic users. Yes...those exist. Not here though. At least I don't think they do. Yet.
      I take my hand off his shoulder and turn around quickly, attempting to return inside. Then he speaks,

      "I know you're here" he whispers so softly that I somehow hear it.

      I jump and slowly turn around, meeting his gaze. He glances back and I walk back to him. I sit down next to him and look down at my boots. We sit there in silence then I speak up.
      "Are you new around here? I don't think I've seen you before?" I quietly ask.
      He shakes his head and looks down at the river stream. "I stumbled across here yesterday. You locals are terribly unusual and violent..." He awkwardly chuckles.
      "Yeah...sorry about that. It can get tense here from time to time" I answer with a soft laugh." "There are a bunch of werewolves and hunters here. So...yeah. It's a hot mess in general."
      He looks at me grins. I wryly smile back. I feel my face heat up and quickly look away. His scent...he smells like something I can't really describe. Cologne but old. Out of this era like his outfit. Was he not from here? Not from this era. Wait...that's not possible, is it?
      "I don't mean you to be so...straightfoward but, may I ask your name?" He asks, standing up and straightening his back. He outstretches his hand and I hesitate. Then I take his hand and he helps me up. "I'm Ophira. Ophira Tala" I introduce myself.
      Then when I least expect he presses his lips against the back of my hand. I freeze and my heart skips a beat. Did he just?
      He gently takes his hand back and the warmth leaves. I blink and let a breath escape. I bring my hand back to my side. "Um...thank you? Who are you?" I ask in a mere whisper. I'm still completely confused by what he did. Guys normally didn't do that. Not in this period.
      "Ah! I apologize. I go by Julian Knight. You, my fine lady, have my thanks" he introduces himself, bowing down.
      I nervously laugh and fan my face with my hand. "Oh...thank you...Julian. Well, I have to go back in for a moment. I promise I'll be back!" I say, running back into the guild.
      Before opening the door, I look back and see him waving at me. I give him a small smile and quietly laugh.