Chapter One: Simple Times

    The early morning light inched its way over fields of blossoming flowers. Birds soared through the misty sky, sending a breeze over the dewy plant life. The stir of nature's wildlife felt as though the entire world was waking from an endless slumber.  


    Sarah carefully tiptoed around the small house, cautious to avoid the select creaky floorboards. After successfully maneuvering to the front door, she swiftly laced up her muddy boots and ventured out into the fresh morning air.


    The delicate light danced across the glistening water droplets, giving the illusion of a sea made of sparkling stones. Sarah closed her dark blue eyes and breathed in the intoxicating smell of a new day, before proceeding towards the edge of town. 


    Braids of blonde hair swaying in the breeze as she peacefully stroll down the stone pathway. Like almost everyone, Sarah's home was located in a bushel of others and required a bit of walking to reach the business district.  


    However, on the edge of town, right next to the main road, were various shops aimed at travelers on their way past. This was her current objective, as today was Sunday and one of the very few days off work.


    Roaming down the paved path, Sarah smile at the family of blue jays, a few overly energetic squirrels and a small rabbit. After emerging from the congestion of buildings, she was met with the beautiful sight of spread out structures lined with nothing but trees and grass. Her peace was short lived though when a certain someone blocked her view.


   Standing with a tilted head, was a black haired young man smirking playfully. His green eyes highlighted his sassy stance as he strolled closer.


"If I didn't know better, I would think you were trying to leave without me," he pouted with squinted eyes.  A sigh escaped Sarah's lips as she gently shoved the mass of man out the middle of the road.


"Now why would I like to read in peace for a change? That would be absurd!" she responded with thick sarcasm lacing every word. After a brief exchange of stares, the pair both cracked a smile and Elliot casual placed his arm over Sarah's shoulder as they moved forward.


"Admit it, you would miss me," Elliot poked as he bonked his head against hers.


"Who knows. It's not like we'll ever need to find out," Sarah smiled tossing his arm away before jogging ahead.

    Quickening the pace, she sprinted towards the nearest building with a renewed boost of energy. A loud creak could be heard as the heavy oak door swung open, revealing the wonder within. Lining the walls from floor to ceiling were large dark bookcases, packed to the brim with leather bound texts.


    "Why, hello there young Kelp," a gruff old voice echos. Sarah spun her head to the left to meet gazes with Mr. Salt, the store owner. After browsing for a shop after his arrival, Mr. Salt chose to offer his knowledge further out of town and soon became Sarah's favorite bookstore.


    "Anything new come in?" she inquires as her hands graze the familiar leather spines belonging to books she's read a hundred times over. The door opens once more as a confident Elliot takes his place beside Sarah's side.


    "Not since you last asked yesterday," Mr. Salt sighs in fake exasperation, but she knows he appreciates the company. Still mindlessly walking amongst the books, Sarah soon spots a yellow spine peaking from a bottom shelf.


    Curious, she leans down and gently slides it out of its nook, surprised at the deceivingly heavy weight. 


    After gripping the book with both hands, Sarah finally caught a glimpse of the cover art. Adorning the front were various white markings that all swirled together to resemble a large sun. The white print, seamlessly etched into the material, continued on inside the book. The exquisitely written text was dense and mesmerizing.


    Before she could ask when he acquired this particular book, the sound of the oak door was heard and mumbles of various voices were heard entering. Not feeling rather social right that moment, Sarah grabbed Elliot's empty hand and ducked behind the nearest bookcase.


    An amused Elliot raised an eyebrow at her behavior, only to receive a vague shrug from the female. After watching the strangers walk further into the store, she seized the opening and sneakily approach the front. Once at the door, Sarah raised the yellow book up and waved at Mr. Salt. 


    Having gotten used to the strange workings of her mind a long time ago, he nods in response and waves towards the door, giving a silent agreement to let her borrow the text as they leave.

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