Venturing closer to the serene scenery of the lake and the small forested park beyond you wave. “Hi.”
The centaur jumps, all four hooves leaving the ground for a moment.
“Don’t mind him. He might look like a proud and noble steed but I assure you he’s a big scary cat.” The lake monster laughs.“That’s not funny Gabe.” The centaur snaps, glaring at him. “My name is Albion by the way. I-it’s nice to finally meet you. Less scary up close. Stories made it seem like you were like the orcs. But you’re small and cute.” He extends a hand and you take it, offering him a smile that makes a dark blush rise to those Carmel colored cheeks.
A hissing sound comes from the skull faced figure behind him and they come around behind him, small wildflowers sprouting from their steps. They’re cloaked in a moss-colored jacket, baggy muddy brown clothing obscuring their figure. “I’m Rose. I live over in the forest. I came with the property.”
“As did I!” Gabe cheerfully adds, one webbed hand in the air. “Not like they could get rid of me. I keep the lake clean.” He jokes.
The four of you chat for hours and before you know it the sun is setting.
“I should get going… “Rose says with a sigh. "I don’t want to spook the Minotaur again.” With a grumble she looks to you. “You should come visit sometime. I don’t get to meet many humans. Well.. humans who don’t run of screaming.” Patting your shoulder she tucks a small daisy behind your ear and ventures off. Seemingly melting into the shadows.
“I don’t like to stay out after dark.” Albion spits out, shuffling slightly. “But uh.. You’re very nice. We should do this again, You said you wanted to get in shape right? You could run with me in the mornings if you wanted? I get up around 7am…if you want…you can meet me here by the lake?” The centaur blushes, his back hoof kicking the ground.
“You two are such buzz kills. I swear.” Gabe laughs, shoving an uneaten boiled egg in the centaur’s mouth when he goes to protest. “Go get your beauty rest.” Gabe waves him off and after a long glance behind him Albion nearly runs into a table.
Stiffing a laugh you watch him frantically run off down the sidewalk. His hooves echoing off the cement.
“And then there were two.” Gabe sighs, glancing over to you.
Night light.
Published
Toad's Cave 