Contents
1. One
Overview
Amara manages the apothecary alone until Caden arrives, proposes again, and turns violent. Glenda interrupts, forcing him to leave, and the women secure the shop. News of fresh fae killings underscores Pendril’s nightly peril tied to a mysterious forest portal, heightening personal and communal stakes.
Summary
On a quiet day at the Pendril apothecary, Amara restocks remedies while her aunt Glenda makes deliveries. The calm breaks when Caden arrives, again proposing marriage. Amara rejects him, citing years of unwanted pursuit and his corrupt reputation.
Caden’s demeanor shifts from smirking to violent. He vaults the counter, pins Amara to the wall, and throttles her, insisting isolation leaves her no other choice. Amara spits in his face, provoking a threat—interrupted by the door chime.
Glenda enters, firmly reminds Caden of boundaries, and mentions his father is looking for him. Caden masks his aggression with politeness and leaves. Shaken, Amara accepts Glenda’s comfort. They lock the door, flip the sign to closed, and Glenda reminds Amara about the hidden dagger for future protection.
Upstairs, Glenda reports two new fae-related deaths: a couple killed after entering the forest at night, and last week’s Latoi family slaughtered after failing to lock up on the new moon. The mounting casualties reinforce community rules of curfew and vigilance.
Amara reflects on the fae—pale, clawed, winged predators from a portal deep in the forest that no barrier can contain and none return from. With danger peaking on new moons and fear numbing the town, Amara ends the day with a prayer to The Mother for the dead.
Who Appears
- AmaraApothecary in Pendril; rejects Caden’s proposal, is assaulted, and steadies herself after Glenda intervenes.
- GlendaAmara’s aunt and partner; interrupts Caden, secures the shop, and reports recent fae killings.
- CadenPersistent suitor; proposes again, becomes violent, then flees when confronted by Glenda.