thefacelessoneโ:
Good, she was probably aware now. He retracted his field, letting her light flicker back on and the sickness recede. The wildlife was smarter, and didnโt return just yet. On the off-chance that she wasnโt aware of his presence, he stepped forwards to the edge of the treeline, allowing his pale face to stand out among the darkened canopy of leaves. He didnโt do anything yet, just stood there. Maybe sheโd get the hint and leave. Or, he silently hoped, sheโd try and search for him more.
The sudden urge to cough hysterically finally ceased, and she caught her breath, panting softly. She noticed her flashlight was working once again and quickly snatched it, holding it in her hand, scanning the area. She was going to leave, but now she knew something was up.
Her eyes squinted, allowing the light to travel slowly along the treelineโฆand she saw the pale faceโฆor lack there of. She froze, staring at it. Was this a prank? No, it was too coincidental. And she never told anyone about her research.
She just kept staring. She wasnโt sure what to do. She wanted to complete her study butโฆshe had no idea what he wanted to do to her. She heard many stories about him, and saw so many encounters that ended in many different waysโฆ
โโฆIโฆโ She cleared her throat.ย โI-Iโm sorry forโฆtrespassingโฆIโm not here to cause trouble.โ
Could he even talk?โฆ
His head tilted to the side slowly. She was sorry. Oh, of course she was sorry. They all were sorry the moment they saw him. But she didnโt flee. She didnโt approach, either, though. Well, this was an indulgence, might as well indulge her curiosity as well. How confident was she feeling tonight? Tilting his head back to an upright position, he stepped from the treeline, movements smooth and soundless as he approached. His tendrils extended, creating something of a dark halo around him. Would she flee? Would she stand her ground? He watched her with anticipation.















