Her name was Sabrina, and she was unlike anyone Julian had ever encountered. Her age was difficult to place, somewhere between timeless and thirty. Her long, raven hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall, and her eyes, the color of amethyst, seemed to hold ancient wisdom and a hint of sorrow. She wore a simple, flowing dress of deep indigo that seemed to absorb the last rays of the setting sun.
"You must be Julian Thorne," she said, her voice a melodious whisper that sent a shiver down his spine. "I've been expecting you."
Julian's charm flickered to life, a practiced smile gracing his lips. "And you are?"
"Sabrina," she replied, her gaze unwavering. "Guardian of this house, and of Shadowmere."
The word "guardian" hung in the air, heavy with unspoken meaning. Julian sensed that Sabrina was more than just a resident of the town; she was its protector, bound to it by a force he couldn't comprehend.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Sabrina," he said, his voice smooth as velvet. "I'm here to... research the town's history." It was a half-truth, carefully crafted.
Sabrina's eyes narrowed slightly, as if she could see through his carefully constructed facade. "History can be a dangerous thing in Shadowmere, Mr. Thorne. Some secrets are best left buried."