The man looked up in wonder. Not only had he just discovered the most beautiful bird he had ever seen, but standing mere feet away from him was a woman he’d never laid eyes on before, and he feared he would never see her like again. She was tall and pale, with blue eyes like sapphires and hair like the night, faintly blowing in the breeze. Her striking face was tilted down, but she met his eyes intensely, and he found himself wondering why. A moment passed, and the spell broke. Her face smoothed, and he saw her faintly smile. He laughed warmly, and introduced himself.

“My name is Behro. May I ask yours?” He winced at how he sounded; he’d never been good with words.

“I’m Raena.” Her voice was melodic and smooth.

The silence that followed accentuated the tension between them, and he felt the need to speak.

“I found this bird…” He trailed off, and Raena walked closer, holding out her hand. There were glittering ashes on the ground beneath them, and when their fingertips touched, the bird flew away.