Call of the Stars

The silver collar clinked softly as it bounced once, then twice, vibrating as it settled on the ground. Slowly, I opened my eyes, blinking away tears. I lay on the ground, cheek pressed against the cold stone. Lord Evlon's boot was inches in front of my face.

"Hmm, that wasn't supposed to happen," he muttered. His hand entered my field of view, picking up the silver band.

I struggled to my knees, chest heaving from the effort. Every fiber of my being hurt, from the sharp ache of my neck to the burning, half-healed cut on my tail. Golden starlight radiated from my body, casting a faint glow on the ground around me. 

With a deep breath, I rose to my feet, staggering once before I reached out, instinctively calling my staff. The crystal haft materialized in my hand in a burst of stars, and I caught myself before I fell.