The Light We Share

Chapter 10

A small draft blew through the chamber. Something so small was easily dismissed by the Elder since he was, for one, sleeping, and two, had this happen before. But for the other person in the room, she couldn't ignore it.

The draft came from a crack in a nearby wall, the current stronger the closer to the wall you got. She tossed and turned, shivering a little as the draft chilled her to the bone.

Unable to ignore it anymore, Nightowl sat up, her glowing orbs scanning the dark room. She was unaware of the time, all she knew was that it was still night. The draft came again and she softly groaned in annoyance. Pulling her cape around her, she got out of her hammock.

Following the air current, her hand met the long crack in the wall. The air flowed from the gap. Why was it so cold? She could stand the Valley's chill, but not this?

Running her hand along the wall, she quietly gazed at the stone. What if she... Using all her strength, she pushed the wall. With a small grating noise, a doorway opened up.

The air blasted her with chill and she shuddered. What was down here? Squinting into the dark, slightly descending stairwell, a faint light caught her eye.

Glancing back at the Elder who was still sleeping, she walked into the secret passage.

It was cold and semi-dark. The only thing illuminating the passageway were the drawings along the floor.

Dark Crabs, Dragons, Mantas, and Birds were all depicted here. There was no pattern, no story. They seemed idle almost, as if there was no inspiration behind them.

A small noise pricked up her ears. A near-quiet shuffling. Who could it be? Walking swiftly yet quietly, Nightowl trailed down the corridor before it wound around a little, revealing a small room that branched off into several other passageways.

On the floor drawing with illuminated golden paint, was the spirit she'd seen when she came for the second meeting. The one with the intricately detailed cape and hood. Kurse.

She stepped into the room and Kurse looked up, surprised. He stood quickly, brushing his hands off quickly, seeming antsy.

"I wasn't really expecting visitors," he muttered softly.

"I'm sorry I interrupted your drawing," Nightowl said, using her shy pose in this situation.

Kurse held up his hands calmly. "No need to apologize," he said. "Nothing to be sorry for,"

"Are—are you Kurse?" Nightowl inquired, wanting at least one answer through this surprise meeting.

The spirit thought about it. "I believe so," he answered. "I don't remember my real name at this time,"

Nightowl nodded slowly. So...this was the illustrator behind these drawings.

"I'm glad I captured your attention," Kurse said finally. Nightowl cocked her head to the side.

"What do you mean? I thought you just said you weren't expecting anyone,"

"I was trying to get your attention, but I wasn't really counting on it working,"

"Did you want to talk to me?"

Kurse sat down near his artwork on the floor and sighed. "I've overheard your meetings with the Council," he began. "You're in dire need of some assistance,"

Nightowl fixed her stance as to be more relaxed. "You've got that right," she muttered. "I need a plan, but—"

"—You don't have one, right?"

"Yeah..."

"Then let's brainstorm. If you can't do it alone, then ask for help."

"But this is my job! Aren't I supposed to do it all by myself?" Nightowl asked.