Bener sprinted along the alleyway before he crossed the town square, his boots scuffing against the cobblestones as he approached the house across from the infirmary. The moon hung low in the sky, casting misty shadows that stretched long across the ground. He rapped gently on the wooden door, the sound echoing faintly in the quiet night. The house remained still.
A few more knocks. Then, unexpectedly, the adjacent door creaked open.
A young woman leaned out, her hair tumbling in loose, sun-kissed waves that caught the moonlight, framing her face like a golden halo. Her gaze met his — curious, playful — her eyes dark pools that glittered with quiet intrigue. A hesitant smile ghosted across her lips as she hovered at the threshold, half-shrouded in darkness.
"Uh... I'm looking for Doctor Kane," Bener said, his voice faltering slightly.
