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Nostus Belongs to @forgottenjade over at: https://bsky.app/profile/softsheepewe.bsky.social 

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Chapter 2.2

New Bark stirred to life as Ravina stepped into the morning, the town transformed by golden light that softened the edges of buildings and painted the streets in warm hues. Yesterday's arrival had felt temporary; today, the town seemed to settle around her like a familiar blanket.

Shopkeepers wrestled with stubborn awnings, their movements practiced in the dawn routine. A cyclist pedaled past, the rhythmic squeak of his wheels accompanying the whir of spokes as parcels jostled in his basket. Down the lane, two children scurried toward the shoreline, fishing rods towering over them like slender giants.

Ravina followed the familiar path toward Professor Elm's laboratory, a jaunty whistle escaping her lips as she walked. She was nearly at the gate when she noticed him.

A boy stood motionless by the fence, red hair catching the morning sun like embers against his dark clothing. His arms were folded tightly across his chest, his gaze fixed not on the road but on the laboratory, more precisely, one specific window.

Ravina's pace slowed. He looked out of place here, his sharp features and guarded demeanor at odds with the town's gentle rhythm. She'd seen no one like him yesterday.

"Waiting for Professor Elm?"

His head snapped toward her, eyes narrowing like a predator's. They were sharp, calculating, and immediately defensive.

"...No."

The single word stopped Ravina in her tracks. "Oh."

Silence stretched between them as she glanced toward the laboratory and back. "You've been staring through his window."

"I haven't."

"You are right now."

His expression hardened further, jaw tightening. "What do you want?"

"Nothing." Ravina shrugged, casual despite the tension. "Just making conversation."

"Then stop."

Ravina blinked. "...Charming."

He turned away abruptly, his posture a clear dismissal. The conversation was over.

Ravina considered pressing further but decided the morning was too pleasant to waste on hostile strangers. She started toward the gate. "Well. Enjoy your... whatever this is."

The boy remained silent.

As she reached the laboratory door, she felt his eyes on her, a brief, piercing moment before he returned his attention to the window, resuming his silent vigil.