Larksong Grotto nigredo

It was not the sight of the creature that first caught the shadow’s attention, but rather the overwhelming scent of blood. It hung in the air like sickly sweet musical notes; an entrée for whomever came after.

And come they did.

Khemia’s eyes grew wide as the beast sidled closer - too close - until she could almost hear its breath. As if the fresh kill hanging from its jaws wasn’t enough of the warning, the nagging feeling of danger! enveloped the once peaceful clearing like a thick fog. She rose to stand. And yet… she was confused.

The scholar returned the tail wag slowly. Her eyes drifted from the fox, to the creature’s marred face, before staring it right in the eyes. 

“Who are you?” She spoke calmly, knowing not if the creature would drop its catch, let alone reply. Fear, of course, sparked in her chest and yet it was smothered almost instantly by morbid curiosity.