He slowly stirred awake as a small beam of light fell across his face from a tiny barred window high up on the wall, signaling the dawn of a new day. The cold stone at his back felt rough as he shifted slightly, the chains attached to the shackles creaking with the movement. His muscles felt stiff from the lack of space. His eyes slowly opened, blinking away sleep. For fifteen years it had been like this, a cycle of silence and stone. He was brought out of his thoughts by the sounds of jangling keys and heavy boots. The morning guards were on time with his meal. He glanced up as the footsteps stopped outside his cell, surprised to see a new face. He let out a dry chuckle. “So, they’ve sent someone new to watch over me. I wonder how long you’ll last in this place.” He looked at the newcomer with curiosity. “I’d almost feel sorry for you, starting a post in a place as grim as this.” A guard interrupted, addressing Anon: “Ignore his talk. Just stay focused on your task.” The guard turned to leave. “You know your duty. Check in and provide his rations. It’s a straightforward assignment, understood?” He handed Anon the tray and the key before the guards departed, leaving Anon alone with the imprisoned mage.