Grant Park in summer is a busy place. Chicagoans gather to walk the tree lined walkways, quality time with the family, or rest from the demands of the urban lifestyle. At night the families return home and the Buckingham Fountain is illuminated in tandem with the Chicago skyline.

On this particular night a solitary figure clung to the shadows followed by a large black dog. Although he looked to be in his early thirties his dark brown eyes glistened with wisdom well beyond his appearance. He sat on a dark bench away from city commotion, the dog kneeled at his side.

"Natasha, my pet. Look at the city. Chicago. Many years ago would you have guessed that our paths would lead here? Our journey has been arduous and the challenges many. But such was the life of the Crone; through her teachings we have endured to this night. My Natasha, the Circle gathers late this night and I am to preach to the Chourus. Sad lot, but they shall learn in their time."

A young couple walked into view. Their arms cloesly twined together. He watched their stride and subtle head bobs. The woman laughed as the man began to impersonate whichever movies were popular nowadays. The couple's focus turned to the lone man sitting on a bench, watching them. They paused for a long moment, then without words scuttled away.

"Fearful mortals. You would think they have seen a ghost with their sudden departure. Or am I simply that repulsive, Natasha? You do not have to be sarcastic you naughty little puppy. Luckily as one of the shadows of the night I do not fear what skulks in the darkness. Individuals fear the unknown. What creaks and clinks prowl beyond. The proverbial bump in the night. How fortunate for myself that I can pierce the dark and what lurks therein."

"But we must now depart, my dear Natasha. The others will be hungry shortly. Eagerly they wake each night to consume their fill. Nothing is quite as desperate than an animal locked in a cage. Let us go feed them, my friend. Our journey is far from completed."