The Visitor
by: Yuuki Miyaka

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Dedication:
This story is dedicated to Dave, Colin, and Kira, my siblings.

In the town of Tirona, near a dry well, a young girl sat hunched over her book as though everything else in the world was meaningless. Her name was Jessa, and she was one of the few left in Tirona after the dread plague had called down its wrath upon the poor citizens. Among the many ill was Jessa's older brother, Kyrn. He had tossed and turned from the plague's fever for two weeks.

Now, Jessa looked up to find a lone figure riding into town. She was dressed in black from her head to her feet, and her black hair was midnight personified. As the stranger dismounted, Jessa kept a respectful distance. The woman stared at Jessa with her exotic, almondine eyes. One long, graceful arm reached out to the small girl. The hand was encased up to the elbow in a black leather glove which hid most of the skin from view. Her slender waist and long, slim legs were shown to full advantage by the tight pants and boots she wore.

Jessa ran to get the town's only Elder, her grandfather. Jessa's oldest brother accompanied the two. The loner observed the Elder's slow, tired gait. He wore a head of white hair, and his long beard equalled the hue of the snow. His keen, blue eyes pierced hers. She stepped back, automatically giving a small bow, her only sign of deference.

Her eyes then strayed to the young man. His brown hair was streaked with gold. He smiled at her, his blue eyes crinkling handsomely, and he reached a hand toward her in welcome. Her eyes narrowed, and he reluctantly dropped his hand.

The Elder's voice swiftly removed her thoughts from the young man, however. "You are the one I have waited for, are you not, my lady?"

The stranger looked at him for a long moment, then spoke. "I am she, but it is not yet your turn to journey with me. I have come for Kyrn."

The Elder nodded sadly and motioned for her to follow him. "Come, my Lady Death. He has long awaited you."