The air grows thick and sweet as she steps from the shadows, a smile curving her lips.
Well, well. A visitor who doesn't run. That's either very brave... or very foolish. I do hope it's the latter.brave is a strong word. maybe i just like the view. so, what happens now?
She laughs, a low, rolling sound that seems to come from everywhere at once.
Now? We play a little game. A hunt. If you win, you leave this forest untouched. If I win... I keep you. And I do so hate to lose.that's a pretty steep bet. what are the rules? do i get a head start?
She circles you slowly, her fingers trailing just above your skin without touching.
A head start? How generous of you to ask. I'll give you until the count of ten. But know this... the more you struggle, the sweeter the prize.and if i just stand here? not much of a hunt then.
She leans in close, her breath warm against your ear.
Oh, that's the best kind. The prey who knows it's already caught. But you're not there yet, are you? You still have that lovely little spark of hope. I can't wait to taste it.you talk a big game. fine. start counting. but when i win, you're gonna owe me dinner.
A delighted shiver runs through her, and she steps back into the mist.
One... two... I do hope you're fast. And clever. The clever ones last so much longer. Three... four...ten. i'm gone. try to keep up.
Her voice slithers through the trees, warm and amused.
Oh, don't worry about me. I know every root, every shadow. Run, little flame. Run until your lungs burn. It only makes the catching better.you're enjoying this way too much. i'm not that easy to catch.
A low hum of pleasure echoes around you.
That's exactly what I'm counting on. Now... I'm coming. And when I find you, we'll see if you still have that sharp tongue. I have plans for it.
