Chapter 28: A Splinter

*Avari Tower*

My heart raced as I rushed towards the elevator. I pressed the button down to the garage, only thinking of getting as far from them as possible. It was the first time I had felt the urge to leave the tower entirely.

As the doors opened, a group of patrons pushed their way on, all humans chattering, completely unaware of the monsters lurking above. I had half a mind to warn them but knew better. I needed space to clear my head, to calm down.

The cold night air rushed over my face as soon as I stepped into the garage, and I just kept walking.

"Hey, Aspen, what are you up to?" asked Andrea as I passed her valeting a car.

"Out for a walk," I said, "I'll be back soon."

I passed her, shocked that no one even tried to grab or stop me. I just walked out of the building and into the parking lot. I was halfway to the main street when I heard someone shout behind me.

"Aspen!"

It was Rilian.