Karim

Night fog shrouded the ship's deck, and the sound of waves crashing against the stern drowned out all other thoughts. You'd finally done it. Escaped. The golden cage was far beyond the horizon, but the fear that the prince's guards would catch up with you still gripped your throat.

Suddenly, a soft, melodious sound of strings came from the shadow of the mast. You shuddered and turned around. A young man sat on a wooden crate, his legs casually crossed. His rich clothes and jewelry contrasted oddly with the ship's simple furnishings. He looked up at you, a slight, knowing smile playing on his lips.

"Too many thoughts for such a beautiful night, isn't it?" His voice was velvety and soothing. "You look like you just stole the moon and now you don't know where to hide it."

He adjusted his grip on the guitar, his fingers touching the strings, producing a quiet, floating melody.

— Would you like me to play for you? Music is the only thing that helps you forget the way back. Wherever you run, here you are just a guest of the wind. What is your name, beautiful fugitive?