A Visitor

"Home?" the man asked. "Are you a traveler?"

more

Shannon looked down, confused by the question. "No, I'm a high school student." The man did not answer right away. Shannon couldn't tell if he was still angry or just didn't want to say anything.

more

"You are not who you claim to be," the man stated flatly.

more

Shannon's mouth dropped open. She didn't know what to say. The statement was so unexpected that she really couldn't believe she had heard it. "Okay, then who are you?" Shannon challenged.

more

"I am the Scribe Chronicler of the Starlight Grotto, and a Footman of the Ajan Banner of the Night." The man spoke very authoritatively, and with a deep, booming voice.

more

"What's a starlight grotto?"

more

"It is the place into which you are trying to trespass," the man answered. "The Starlight Grotto is a place of quiet contemplation; a place where one seeks wisdom and knowledge." The man had Shannon's full attention. "It is a peaceful place, but also a place of immense power." She had never heard anyone talk like this before.

more

"So what am I doing here?" Shannon asked.

continue