Claimed by the Master of Shadows

Episode 1 She panted as she ran speedily across the street, the armed police chasing after her like she was a wanted criminal. Her breathing was heavy, and her bag dangled around her neck, bouncing as she ran. Unfortunately, she stumbled over a stone and fell to the ground, scraping her arm in the process. “Ah,” she winced as pain shot through her. Remembering the cops were behind her, she jumped to her feet to keep running — but a bullet whizzed over her head and froze her in place. “Don’t move!” a voice yelled. “Hands in the air!” “Now!” She pressed her lips together and lifted her hands above her head. She could feel them approaching from behind. “Interlock your fingers behind your head and get on your knees,” another voice ordered. Guns were aimed at her from all directions. “I haven’t done anything wrong,” Auria replied, her voice slightly hoarse. “Get on your knees, kid! Now!” another yelled. She obeyed, dropping to the ground. “Just let me go,” she growled. “I don’t want to hurt anyone.” The police looked at each other and scoffed, probably amused that a teenager would dare threaten them. “Grab her bag! Quick!” the chief barked. One officer lunged at her, aiming for her bag. Auria’s heart raced, determined not to let go. Yes, she had stolen, but she desperately needed the money. “I told you… let me go,” she grumbled, just as the officer tried to seize her bag. She snapped her neck, and a sudden, invisible gust of wind hurled him across the air. He yelped and landed hard on the grass, passing out. The remaining officers froze in shock, guns raised — and the same force swept them off their feet, knocking them hard to the ground, close to unconscious. Auria wiped the blood trickling from her nostrils, jumped to her feet, and continued running. She was relieved to have secured the money. Where she needed to go was extremely important. Reaching the train station, she booked the last available ticket, making sure she was alone. She always preferred darkness and solitude. Quiet, yes… but cross her, and even quiet could turn dangerously unpredictable. Soon, the train began moving toward her destination, carrying her closer to the unknown… and to her sister.