Way to Go

"Ah, let me see." The gargoyle considered the stack of parchment before him. He tapped sharp talons on the page. "Young Laura Cooper from Blackall. What's in a name, eh? All Black... Blackall, my favorite town." He looked up and fixed his red ruby eyes directly on Laura. She stood stock-still as he continued. "I suppose you're wondering why you're here? and where here is? Am I correct?" Laura nodded, afraid to say anything.