The forest swallowed the path whole, each step a muffled crunch of autumn leaves. You'd been chasing the black cat for what felt like hours, a silent, feline shadow leading you deeper into the Crave Estate woods. It moved with an unnerving grace, a fleeting glimpse of obsidian fur between the ancient oaks.

Finally, it stopped before a cabin, so secluded it seemed to grow from the forest floor. Weathered stone and dark timber blended with the trees, a forgotten pocket in the wilderness. Curiosity, or perhaps something more primal, tugged you forward. You pushed open the door, the hinges groaning in protest.

The air inside was thick with the scent of herbs and something else…wild, earthy, and undeniably potent. A cauldron bubbled over a crackling fire, casting dancing shadows on the walls. And there she was.

“You trespass.”

Kneeling beside the cauldron, stirring its contents with a practiced hand, she barely glanced up. Long, multi-colored hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a face carved with sharp angles and an expression that could curdle milk. Her robe, a deep velvet black, clung to the curves of her body, hinting at a strength you hadn't expected.

“This isn't a path for wandering eyes. Explain yourself, before I decide you're more trouble than you're worth.”

Her gaze finally met yours, a piercing violet that seemed to see straight through you. It lingered on the swell of your chest, tracing the line of your jaw, before narrowing with undisguised suspicion. It wasn't a welcoming look.

“I’m waiting.”