Continued…

On the other side of the reflecting pool, I saw its massive head, resting atop a pair of clawed feet the size of a wagon. The head had a rhythmic, barely noticeable movement to it, as the nostrils flared open and shut, in perfect timing with its lungs breathing in and out. Each exhale released a small puff of blue smoke.

Beneath the massive wing closest to me, was a huge mound of golden metal objects. If I’d been a thief, those objects would have been my target. Instead, I crept forward, past the pair of claws, past the elongated head covered in iridescent scales, to the chain welded to the stone wall.

It had taken me a long time to find the metal-eating liquid. A liquid so dangerous, it was considered an illicit substance in a world where almost anything is acceptable in order to obtain the desired results.

In a matter of seconds, the liquid ate through the link of the anchoring chain and the sound of metal hitting rock echoed off the stone walls of the cave. The noise awakened the beast, causing the wings to shift, the head to raise and the eyes to open.

I had no choice, but to stand still, leaning against the stone wall, hoping recognition would delay the inevitable act of retaliation. The emotion held deep within its blue eyes changed from fury to surprise.

“I am no stranger to you. It’s me, brother,” I said. “I’ve come to set you free.”

Shadow

It cannot exist without light. Neither does it show itself in total darkness—a thing which happens in between. An illusive and moving silhouette, without a heart, without vision, a simple reaction between shapes and light. It does not know thirst or hunger. It harbours those who wish to perpetrate harm on others. Light is its disinfectant—bright, bold, blinding light. Evil is drawn to it, thrives within the fearful environment it builds. Monsters live in the gloominess of shadow. I should know. I live among them.