Word Count: 407.
Hotaru was never the type to turn down a battle of words and riddles. Such things were amusing to an artist like herself, and really the only battles a blind wolf could participate in. Yet, there was a certain edge to the clash of minds that seemed almost deadly. The strange male's voice, the way he walked, everything seemed off. It was like being near a higher predator, a deadly situation and one no one really enjoyed being in. If it weren't for the threatening atmosphere, then Hotaru would have really enjoyed the battle of words. The grey wolf would have to tread carefully, although Hotaru was a little safe because they were in a large crowd. Hotaru wished at that moment, more than most, that Fawkes was by her side as opposed to hunting.
Once again, his words were sweet, but held a sinister undertone. Even though the stranger was trying to portray himself as harmless, it was clearly to let her guard down. He wanted something from her, and Hotaru suspected that she would regret finding out. "One would have to wait a very long time for such a change. Even then, a robin can’t hide it’s talons or sharp beak." Hotaru's tone was polite and friendly. She adorned her regular mask with a small polite smile, nothing showed her true emotions.
A slight rustling from the male drew her attention. He was moving, but it didn't sound like he was coming closer. Moving his arms? To what avail? Was there something in his hands? No, there was a hollow sound, like something was rubbing together. His paws, he was rubbing his paws together. The blind wolf listened carefully, her ears facing forward and alert. More movement and a slightly metallic sound. Now there was something in his hands. Hotaru tentatively sniffed the air, but only let her black nose move. There wasn't the tell tale smell of metal, so not a metallic weapon. The only other thing Hotaru could smell was leather, and she suspected it was her own stocks of hide that her nose picked up.
To ease her unrest, Hotaru casually placed one hand on her staff. Although its primary purpose was to help her travel, she could at least get one good whack in. With the other hand she to a bite out of the dried meat, turning her head slightly away as if she hadn't a care in the world.
Table by Shannon
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