Timeless

Devon

Just as the sun was reaching the horizon (and Devon was about to make some obnoxious noise just to annoy Corvinus), they came to the crest of the last mountain. Off in the distance, Devon could see a blackened castle.
       
“I thought you said there was an orphanage. All I see is a charred castle.” Devon complained.
   
“That is the orphanage. It's the only building sturdy enough to survive out here.”
   
“What do you mean strong en-,” Devon began until Corvinus shoved him under a nearby overhanging rock, covering his mouth, as a vast shadow blocked what was left of the sunlight where they had been standing.
   
Several minutes after it passed, Corvinus removed his hand and Devon hoarsely whispered, “What was that?!”
   
“The reason we need to get inside.”
   
Making sure the creature was actually gone, Corvinus hurried Devon down the mountainside towards the building.
   
As they hurried, Devon realized there had once been a village or city here. All that was left was the castle and some charred stone walls and foundations. Every bit of stone had black marks from whatever fire had swept through. Bits of grass seemed to be trying to retake the charred stones in places.
   
The sun was barely casting any light by the time they passed through the broken gates into the courtyard. What Devon could make out was some plants struggling to grow, what appeared to be abandoned toys, and a lot of rubble from outbuildings, the walls and where some of the rooms had collapsed. Corvinus dragged Devon through the huge stone double doors before he could stop and look at an interesting pile of rocks.
   
Once inside, with the doors firmly closed, Corvinus let out a heavy breath. Turning to Devon, he said, “Follow me. Kate keeps everyone towards the back of the castle. They should be in the playroom.”
   
“Hour's walk, my ass,” Devon muttered instead of demanding what the hell had made that shadow, knowing he wouldn't get an answer anytime soon.
   
Ignoring him, Corvinus led the way through dark corridors. As they went, Devon noticed that there was a thick layer of dust in many of the rooms he could see into. After a few turns, a few of the rooms had lamps lit and appeared to be in use even though Devon had yet to see anyone.
   
Soon Devon could hear the sound of children laughing. Some of the laughter seemed strange, but was definitely laughter. And was that …barking?
   
At Devon's inquiring look, Corvinus explained, “This orphanage is home to various species, not just humans.”
   
“That could explain some of the marks I've seen” Devon said, motioning towards some claw marks on the wall. He was rather afraid by now, but was keeping a calm expression, at least he hoped he was.
   
With a thoughtful look, Corvinus said, “You seem to be handling the transition well.”
   
Snorting a laugh, “You wouldn't say that if you could read my mind. By ‘other species’ I assume you mean werewolves, sprites, and elves. They are myth where I come from.”
   
“Those are not all that exist here, but there are a few here, in this building, as well as elves,” Corvinus allowed as they reached a large oak door at the end of the corridor. Corvinus pushed it open before Devon could sputter a response. He hadn't expected that answer since he had been joking.
   
Beyond the door was the throne room. Not that there was a throne present anymore. On the dais instead were children and what looked like puppies, but Devon assumed must be the werewolves mentioned. They appeared to be playing ‘king of the dais’.
   
Looking around Devon guessed there had to be around 30 or so children present, ranging from what Devon guessed was 3 or 4 to around 15. All of them were playing on various kinds of playground equipment.
   
“Ah. There's Kate.”
   
Turning towards where Corvinus was looking, Devon saw a woman who might've been in her early 30s. She was a bit brown, with light brown hair and brown eyes, lightly tanned skin… and a brown-furred tail?
   
“Is that a tail?” asked Devon.
   
“Yes. A few years ago, a warlock child decided she would look better as a cat. Luckily, they only managed to change her eyes and give her a tail.”
   
“Warlocks? Eyes?” Looking at her eyes, Devon realized her pupils were slitted like a cat's.
   
“I didn't expect you back so soon, Corvinus. Who's your friend?” said the woman, Kate, as she reached them.
   
“There was a change of plans. The sprites used the portal to drag Devon here through as a toy.”
   
“I see. Those sprites need someone to keep them in line.”
   
With a chuckle, Corvinus simply said, “They had one, but corrupted her.” Glancing at Devon, Corvinus suggested finding places to rest and some food.
   
“You know where the kitchens are, Corvinus. And just choose any room that's empty.”

**How is everyone liking the story? Any comments are helpful!***