Steal
Drips rushed off the leaves and hit tiny feet running through the underbrush. The sudden downpour made the ground muddy and slick but this was not a time to lollygag. The leather pouch sat on the old stump, lost in the forest, left behind by some forgetful traveler, ready for the taking.
The top of the pouch was tied tight with a piece of twine. No water had breached and spoiled the contents! With a quick look to the left and to the right, gnarled hands shot out and pulled the pouch greedily under a muddy cloak.
No ice pixie will get this treat, now. A nearby hollow in a fallen tree offered refuge from the rain, and a safe place to unwrap the present. Old memories of festivals and presents exchanged seemed like distant dreams but the smell from the pouch was familiar. It tugged at memories of an old market, stalls lining walkways, and even the hum of bartering in the background.
The knot came loose with ease and inside a white powder stared up from the bottom of the pouch. Was it something to eat? Just a pinch would satisfy bubbling curiosity and a pinch would be safe. It was sweet and warm going down the throat.
"Hello, there. I'm Kibber. Come one out of that old log. Let's get you cleaned up and out of this rain. I have a place nearby."
The words came from a fine looking fellow with long ears. His vest pocket had a purple flower in it. He held an umbrella in one hand and extended the other toward the log. His long legs let him reach close.
"Come one, there is no sense staying out here by yourself," Kibber added and stepped closer.
Big eyes blinked back at Kibber. A long ear flopped over one of her eyes. The startled woman smacked her head on the inside of the log. Soft hands rubbed over the sore spot. Hands that were recently gnarled now stretched and flexed as if they were new.
"Don't worry. You have been released from the curse. Come out, there is much to discuss." Kibber coaxed the woman out.
"I don't know what happened. I stole this pouch and the powder did something to me." The woman confessed.
"No, that pouch was meant for you. Let's head back home. We can go over things with some Wisteria flower tea. Plus, I have scones."
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