Thread: City of Taken Souls (Rania Lark X ArcturusMagnus)

Emily strolled through the darkened streets of the city, the hiss of the steam engines running in a deep rhythm that one got used to rather quickly. Some even said that the noise calmed them when the fear of the disappearances became too much. Like monsters under the bed, the familiar noise was like a lullaby, sending one off to dreamland without a care in the world. But Emily was free spirited someone who hated the familiar hiss of the steam engines. The sound of the train whistle on the hour every hour. She didnt like the mundane life of working hard all day only to be pent up in her home, locked in her room for the night because of the fear of a legend in the town. The girls who had disappeared all probably ran off with some man their parents disapproved of. Emilys curiosity was frowned upon in the town. Some malicious whispers even echoing throughout the streets that she would be the next one to disappear if her reckless behaviour wasnt curbed. But Emily didnt care. She didnt like any of the eligible men, though many had sought to suit her for her hand in marriage. She didnt want a boring life, and if she remained in this town, thats all it would ever be. However, she had no idea what was coming. Her boots clicked loudly on the cobblestone road, sending an unearthly loud echo up over the metal and wood buildings. The stars shone in the sky, hidden by a lone cloud and the rising steam of the power engines. The train whistle echoed its lonely tune through the deserted streets. Emilys eyes roved over the streets, fascinated at the change in the bustling town when the sun retreated behind the horizon. She turned her head to the east and thats when she first noticed it. A figure, shrouded in grey, steam emanating and encapsulating it from behind. The gas lanterns casting an eerie glow. It seemed otherworldly. Taking a cautious step forward, ever curious Emily wanted a closer look. It was a move she would soon regret. For the figure mirrored her actions, taking a step closer to her as well. Straightening her posture, the hair on the back of Emilys arms immediately stood up on end. She turned to run only to find herself in the midst of two more of the otherworldly figures. She stepped back from them, turning again, to another. The figures surrounded her. Emily swallowed hard in an attempt to banish her fear from her voice as she spoke loudly. Do not come any closer or Ill scream, she called out as loudly as she could, hoping to rouse some good soul who could come to her rescue. But no one came. The figures took another step towards her, their hidden eyes boring into her body as they moved as one. Emily made good on her promise and let out the most blood curdling scream she could muster as the figures closed in on their target. However, her scream went unheeded and the first cold hand grabbed her upper arm. Emily tried to yank it from the grip but found herself stuck within the grasp. Then another cold hand found its way to her other arm. Emily opened her mouth to scream again but this time, a scarf was placed over the orifice, muffling her scream and allowing a sweet smelling liquid waft up into Emilys nose. The smell was intoxicating as Emilys stance began to waver. Then she couldnt stand up. Then her vision went blurry. Then everything went black as the drug took hold of her senses, sending her reeling into unconsciousness.