Bella

I stand in the town square my hands on my hips. A handful of townsfolk stand with me. “Are you sure this will work?” the mayor asks. “Are you certain that the beast is the creature you think it is?”

I shrug, “I’m not certain, I can’t be without seeing it clearly. But based on the information you’ve given me, the age of the creature, and it’s cycles, I’m fairly certain that I know what it is.”

“And if you’re wrong?” the mayor presses.

I look over at him, meeting his gaze, “I’m not asking or expecting you to stay out here. In fact, I think it would be better if you went inside. I think something about me draws the creature closer. That being said, if I’m wrong what do you have to lose? If I’m right, however, then your town will be free of it’s plight. So, are you willing to do as I say on that hope?”

He frowns at me for a long moment then nods, “Very well.” He glances at Ian, “See that she has any weapons she desires. And any supplies you can provide.”

Ian frowns then nods, “Yes sir,” the other towns folk disperse as Ian and I stare each other down.

He takes a deep breath then says, “Forgive my suspicion. I’ve lost many friends and family to this beast, I don’t trust that it’ll just go away in a night.”

I nod, “I understand. I’m not sure I’ll be able to get rid of it in a night, but I’ll be doing my best. As I told the Mayor earlier, I’m the only one that should be outside until I either resolve the issue or die trying.” I pause then hold my hand out, “You have my word that I will do everything in my power to finish this, and I mean everything.” I put emphasis on my words and he seems to catch onto their hidden meaning.

“Everything?” he says as he regards my hand.

“Yes,” I nod.

Another moment of silence then he grips my hand and shakes it once, “As you say, let’s get you outfitted. What would you like weapon wise?”

“Is there a fletcher in town?” I ask, looking around as if I’ll magically see one.

“Yes,” he nods, “Come with me.” He leads the way back toward his home and says, “They live near me. I’ll give you a melee weapon as well, if you like.”

“Hopefully I won’t need either, but a small blade would be appreciated.”

He nods and walks up to a small shop near his. He knocks twice then goes in anyway. Inside, a tall man is tending to some bows. He looks over his shoulder and frowns, “This the newcomer?” he asks.

Ian nods, “Aye, she thinks she can handle the beast.” He glances at me, “She’s sworn she’ll do everything she can. Mayor Jones has said to outfit her in any way she sees necessary.”

I offer my hand to the fletcher, “Bella,” I say as way of introduction.

He eyes my hand for a second then shakes it, “Hooper. You need a bow?”

“I’d appreciate it. My last one broke a few months back.” I say with a sigh.

“Why didn’t you replace it?” he asks with a scowl.

I raise an eyebrow at him and flip my hood down, “Couldn’t find a suitable one.”

His eyes widen for a moment as he takes in my ears and features, “You’re Fae,” he whispers with terrified reverence.

I nod, “Yes,” I survey the room and do a circuit around the space. I gently touch a few of the bows, looking for one that calls to me. I loop around a few times then stop in front of a rather plain longbow.

Hooper stands near me, “A traveler brought the wood through last summer. I was able to shape it an’ everything, but once I got it made for some reason it lost all flexibility. Nobody can use it, but I couldn’t bring myself to part with it.” He looks the bow over, “It seemed like it’d be pretty strong.”

I run my hand along the limbs, the wood pulses with energy. I close my eyes and let the energy circle up my arm. Something has locked the limbs in place, it’s as though the bow itself has decided no one may draw it. I wrap my hand around the grip and let a touch of my magic seep into the bow. The weapon soaks up the magic and I feel the rigidity fade.

I open my eyes and pick up a string thats lying in front of the bow. With a deft twist I string the bow and draw it. Both men beside me gasp. I take a deep breath then slowly release both the breath and the bow. I turn to Hooper, “I think it suits me.” I say quietly, “How much do I owe you?”

Hooper blinks for a moment, “Nothing.” He says almost breathlessly, “Nobody else could even string it, let alone draw it. I’ve had hundreds of hunters through here trying. It clearly chose you. It’s yours.”

I blink at him, surprised by the generosity. “Thank you,” I bow slightly, “I appreciate your generosity.”

He nods and fetches a hip quiver and some arrows, “Of course. It’s also not often a fletcher gets to say a Light Fae wields one of their weapons.” He smiles at me.

I hesitate, but take the other supplies from him, “No, I suppose not.”

“If you’re done,” Ian says, “Let’s get you a blade, if you still want it?” he gives me a curious look.

I nod, “Please,” I un-string the bow and follow Ian out, not looking back at Hooper and his hopeful eyes.