The Fool

If the crypt was a rotting corpse, the outside was what killed it. The landscape was almost
monochrome, save for the black of tall rocks and the pine trees that dotted her surroundings.
It felt hostile, but she didn't feel like an invader this time, just a terribly lost yearling. She
searched, begged, prayed for familiarity in her environment. Instead she finds a wolf, startling
blue and quite oblivious. His gait was casual, unhurried in his journey, but there was skill in his
pawsteps. He seemed to know his way around the land, whether by memory or talent. Maybe
a little bit of both.

She stiffened at the sight of him, expecting him to address her in some way, but realised that
he hadn't noticed her admist the snow. Still unsure of how to react, she stood her ground.
Maybe he'd walk right by, or maybe she'd give him a spook. She wouldn't admit it, but she
much preferred the latter option. He was big, and it'd do her ego much good to catch
someone stronger than her off guard. Her pale eyes regarded him warily, but not
with hostility.

He halted and she fought not to show her anxiety, keeping still and staring right at the boy.
It wasn't like she could tear her eyes away either, his proportions spoke of a yearling but he'd
tower over most of the wolves and Sybil knew, and his colour was almost overwhelming. Blue
like the clearest day, or the hottest flame. She knew of canids who dyed their fur, but she didn't
think there was enough of a supply to cover the extent of his body, nor the materials to create
such a vibrant hue. He didn't seem like someone who could afford such an extensive
modification either. Maybe a son of a rich family, but she thought she knew them all.
It would be difficult not to if they had this much wealth.

He discovered her, and satisfaction shot down her spine when she witnessed his fear. Yes,
be afraid. Respect me. He asked her if she was a ghost, and she felt like laughing. Poor,
poor sod. Unsure on whether to torment him more, she responded in a light, playful tone.
"Maybe. Are you?"

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