Talerae Rosespear stood behind the heavy wood table in her storeroom, nervously shifting from foot to foot. Although she had not heard or seen any sign of the burglar, the back of her neck itched, as if someone was watching her.

She turned and scanned the empty shop. The back door was still locked, the windows securely shuttered. She rubbed her hands together, trying to work some of the chill from her fingers. A slight scrape came from the other side of the door.

"Is someone there?" Talerae was surprised at how calm her voice sounded. She was trembling with fright, certain the burglar had returned. She held her breath and waited, but there was no further sign of any disturbance.