Noah Hayden

Map's Edge: Aletrias

On a morning fair, in a city old, there stood a mighty Oak. Many mornings stood this towering tree in the center of the square. A great many of those mornings led to days of joy and plenty. Some led to pain and sorrow, but through it all, under flame and frost, Aletrias endured. The rising sun revealed this day that it did not stand alone. Here, Cassandra entered, motionless beneath the oaken branches. Entranced by their sway, she noticed not the sea’s chill rolling over the city, nor did she notice the light growing about the ever busying square. The crack of a cart against stone broke the moment’s enchantment and her senses returned. An instant of pause passed, then she set off with all haste. Cassandra was late.