C196 WHAT CANNOT BE UNSEEN

Night did not fall peacefully over the mortal village.

It came heavy, like a held breath that had gone on too long.

The lanterns along the narrow passageways burned lower than usual, their flames bending as though the air itself resisted light. Doors that were ordinarily left ajar were shut securely. Even the dogs, who barked at leaves that floated by and shadows that passed by, were quiet