It rapidly began to darken as I neared the mouth of the final alleyway , the last I would pass before coming to the graveled drive leading to my home . As I neared the far side of its gapping maw , a noise came from within which I chose to ignore . If I didn ’ t see it , then it didn ’ t happen as far as I was concerned . I merely desired to reach home where a warm bath and a hot drink were waiting for me .
I had just cleared the alley ’ s mouth when powerful hands reached out and grabbed me . The right arm clamped around my waist like a vice , tighter than the whale-bone corset I was wearing . Its strength unlike anything I had never known , although the hand itself felt long and slender ; a gentleman ’ s hand .
I attempted a scream , but my attacker ’ s left hand clamped forcefully over my mouth . It was just as strong as its twin ; but it was cold , deathly cold ; and that more than anything negated my struggles .
Damascus appeared whimsical and strong as he stood facing me , but fear flickered deep in his eyes , in his soul . His apprehension toward me was evident , but he would not go down without a fight ; and that was all the more to my liking .
“ Have you come for this ?” he motioned to the medallion which lay against his cold skin .
I barely glanced at the mellow silver with the blood ruby set into its heart . I knew its every detail intricately : the engraving of the ancient letters on its back , as well as the molding of the star and moon , of which the ruby was the star ’ s focal point .
“ If you won ’ t hand it over peaceably , I will take it from you .” I stepped back giving myself another foot of
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