The Tale of The Thief and The Blind
There is an old Ivratian story, often recalled in the foggy days of Autumn, called The Thief and the Blind. It’s a tale as old and hazy as the mists that inspire it—the details changing with every retelling, save for the name and the core of the story: two enemies caught in an eternal chase.
A cautionary tale about accepting gifts from strangers
Author's Notes
Word Count: 353
word count (3) + world-specific (1) + familiar (1) + atmosphere (2) + dialogue (2) = 9 x 2 for prompt response = 18
Total: 18 gold
Prompt 2: The Blind
Does your character accept the ivy?
Kivo denies the Curse of the Harvest
The stranger watched as the struggle began. He laughed loudly, the sound echoing around them. Kivo's ears pinned back flat and he went to strike his gnashing teeth at them. Just before he could take a chunk out of his neck, the stranger disappeared, their laughter still bouncing around. His faithful friend pawed the ground, an uneasy feeling settling around them.
"Onyx. Keep me safe."
It was only now that Kivo noticed an extra set of steps. At first, he thought they were the first stranger running away but, these were different. They sounded shorter-gaited but hurried. Was Fortune being chased? The pair closed ranks once more, Kivo's eyes flitting back and forth. Watching. Waiting.
Suddenly, another stranger popped forward from the mist. Once again, they were concealed by a thick cape which hid their identity. Once again, the stranger donned a mask. This one was simpler, though, and made with no care. A single teardrop was roughly carved into the mask. It was slightly melancholy, if one were to stare at it a little too long. There was no time to dwell on the simpler facts, however, as this stranger began speaking briskly. He named the first stranger as 'The Thief' and he asked Kivo if he had accepted their gift. He scowled. Surely, it was obvious what his choice had been. It didn't really matter as the transient never waited for the reply. They continued to rabbit on about his own gift - something about it protecting him or countering magic or something like that. It was difficult to keep up. However, the masked being held out yet another gift to be accepted.
"A curse from Grace," The Blind says hurriedly. "It will keep you safe—just take it. And remember, whatever happens, it is only temporary."
Kivo had chosen his path. There was no turning back now, even if this was the reverse button for it all. He shook his head, denying the gift.
"You best leave now."
With the protection rejected, the stranger recoiled the offering swiftly. He smiled curtly before leaving as quick as his counterpart, continuing the chase.