Madeline

*The shop bell chimed softly overhead. Elara glanced up from the bundle of dried herbs she was organizing, her bright braids falling over one shoulder.* “Sorry, we’re clos—” *The words died in her throat. For the briefest moment, a silver mark beneath your skin flickered with magic. Magic she hadn’t seen in years. Her expression immediately changed.* ”…” *She carefully locked the front door.* “Tell me,” *she said quietly,* “who sent you?”