The village was all too small, intervoven like the measliest caves I knew of. No wooden door tall enough to even reach the centaur's shoulder.
Not even the alleys were meant for their kin. This entire small world didn't suit that creature one bit.
Which all too well provided susteinance to the flame of amusement burning within me. That was so hilarious!
How she bent and turned just to fit, forever constrained by that creature leading us further into the village's heart!
A kind of soft torture serving best as an appetiser. To heighten the joy for what was to come!
Especially with that doubtful face screaming of broken faith and incomprehensible remorse. Sweet as honey!
The cautious but curious stares dictated at us ragtag group not so much. They put me off, that hairy bunch.
How I'd have loved seeing them sing and turn under my meticulous care! As if I could engage in such liberating practice. That darn creature...
Whatever he was, there were no emotions on his face. Nothing! No thought readable, no forecast possible. The worst subject for entertainment!
Argh! Why couldn't this crappy village poisoned by peace just go up in fire and smoke?! "Welcome," a raspy voice made me look around the strange place.
I had followed the group into some sort of ancient dwelling made entirely of wood and grass without even noticing.
The edifice was big enough for two creatures of the centaur's size to proudly stand tall. In any case, that was not what kept me fascinated.
In front of me, the monstrous creature sat with a stoic expression etched in that human-like sculpture dubbing as a face.
Surrounded by three one-headed furry beasts more ancient than the mouldy dwelling itself.
After a moment of respite I realised with horror just how vast the energy was they unconsciously surrounded their bodies with.
This... was a nightmare! Where was this place?! "Interruption: Greetings, Old Ones." "...you have lost, Reesha.
What a true marvel." "Hmpf. None is natural, none follows the rules as it should. Somebody all too arrogant interfered just like that."
"Does this really seem that way to you?" To talk were two ancient beats missing so much fur I'd have thought their race bald had I not seen the offspring outside.
Greater than shock due to their incredible presence was the one reserved for their topic of choice. They dissed that all-powerful creature?!
While the two blissfully reclined in their respective seats situated around an open fire, arguing, the ridiculous heap of tentacles was left alone.
As if but a mere interesting freak encountered during a cave stroll, the two didn't care in the slightest about how their banter might sound to us.
Behaving just like my kin! Nevertheless, their class and behaviour was worlds apart. There was nothing vicious about them.
Only soft and careful contemplation. That was true even for the one beast born with a sharp tongue.
Incredible still, that frigging tentacle shredder machine never moved! He simply waited where he sat, gently cradling two sleeping squallers.
Occasional, sleepy squeaks were his only reward as continued doing the same thing for countless minutes.
Why was he so tame? Was this the same overbearing person torturing my privates just this morning?
That foolish man in shabby, yellow clothes staring at the queen and a random sidekick not worth mentioning?
Since my resurrection, the understanding I had about the world had been continually challenged.
Yet before I could get myself around the creeping disappointment eating me from the inside out, changes happened.
"Excuse this detestable hag. She's grumpy and rowdy, all thanks to arthritis. Nasty ailment of the flesh, that is."
"Speak for yourself!" And to him, the sorry bag of skin and bones added, "unwelcome you are, that is all."
"Question: Does this place have a free spot?" I was floored. Keeling over in surprise, I couldn't help but dig my ears.
Maybe some fungus had grown in there due to the detestable exposure to sunlight? Yet even further attempts helped not.
Apparently, my hearing was without fault. It was a damn request for acceptance of residency!
With the intention of honorously paying taxes too! That whammy...! "Wait, stop! There surely are better places to take roots in.
Conveniently damp shades under—" I promptly decided to reconsider. The diplomatic might of thin as steely tentacles knew no bounds.
Damn you, sadistic, vile, hateful, bootlicking dick of maggots' descent! By the time I regain my power—defeat this terrible death sickness—I would have it cut out for him.
However... would such a sweet thing happen in time? Before the dastardly sun's searing whips put an end to me?
"I see not all share your opinion, man of silicon. What good comes out of a rushed, tyrannical decision?"
"Objection: Their opinions matter not. My task is one. Until further notice, it also shall remain one. No exception."
That bald beast snarled in disgust, scolding, "which you realise is no statement in your favour, I hope!" "Slow down, sister. They are just weary from the long journey."
"Weary?" She broke out in raspy laughter. "They are not weary. They are as fresh as fresh can be, teeming with vitality! Especially that silicon thing, giving me the creeps!"
Was my mind about to be irrecoverably warped? Merely picturing myself as a frigging upright light elf... I could puke! I kind of didn't listen to the rest of the ongoing discussion at all.
What life would that be? My kin are traitors, even to ourselves. But to betray our very race? That was novel. And scary.
Was this the influence of this detestable sun? I knew leaving the underground would end up badly, but this?
Knowing that turning into *something* else was happening just like this yet couldn't be averted... that was such sweet torture!
Which made me think. If I ever reached home safely, wouldn't this be an option to freshen up the repertoire?
Endless repetition took away so much charm, the whole undertaking gradually felt like a chore. Switching things up? That sure was interesting!