The Traveler

I thought I'd try my hand at flash fiction again, but a little shorter this time. ;)

The Traveler

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Rain thundered down on the roof, and Kadence shivered as lightening flashed in the window. She hated the storms. They took away everything and fear was their only payment. She sipped her tea, trying to calm her nerves, but it did no good. She was alone. There was no protection, and the fire was without warmth. She knew she was blessed. She had shelter; she had a home. But without her companion, it was merely a cabin – a place for the lonely.

The window flew open and her only lamp crashed to the floor, leaving her in darkness. She backed against the wall, pulling her shawl closer. A cold truth invaded her mind: the wind was coming. And this time, she would be the victim. Her lips uttered a short prayer, but her mind was elsewhere. A knock was sounding on the door.

"The wind doesn't knock," she told herself. "It gives no warning."

She carefully moved forward, using her touch as a guide. The rough walls called to her, pleading for her to stop, but she closed her ears. Her hand came over the doorknob, and she turned it automatically. The door opened with unsettling obedience. A dim light met her eyes, and she fought to focus. Success revealed a stark image.

A tall figure stood before her, with a dark trench coat hanging over broad shoulders. A hat of black leather covered his eyes, and drops of rain slid from the brim. A spark of fear lit the woman's blood and her voice withered away, leaving only a shaky whisper.

"Who are you?"

His answer was low. "I am a traveler."