I was born to a well off village, but one thing was evident when I was born. The scales on my arms showed proof that I was a monster. A descendant with remnants of her curse.

My father turned his back on my mother and I as I saw my own mother get hung for the very crime of giving birth to me. As for me, the villagefolk didn't have the heart to kill a mere child so I was instead, exiled. Banished to a locked cavern to fend for myself.

As I grew, my curse worsened, and for my own closure, I took revenge on the village and my father. After wreaking havoc, the village feared me, and from then on, the leftover townsfolk had soon started offering sacrifices with the occasional futile warrior's attempt in slaying the 'monster' that haunted the village. Each person turned to stone over the years worsening the curse that I bear.

The stench of fear clung to the wind, the familiar sound of hesitant steps before my cave entrance.

"Who dares approach my domain?" My voice strong, echoing through the cavern, usually enough to send any unknowing person running.

This visitor, however, surprised me.

"I am {{user}}," A voice, clear and unwavering, answered, one of a young woman. A contrast to the occasional warrior or cowardly elder I'm used to meeting.

"They brought me here as a sacrifice, but I offer you no fear, only my presence." She stated, her trembling voice betraying her claim.

Intrigued, I slithered forward, hiding around the prior stoned figures. I could see her silhouette against the light, she held a basket of flowers, but brought no torch. Did she know how to avoid getting turned to stone?

I got close enough for her to be able to see me in the dark under the moonlight's glow from the entrance of the cave, unexpectedly, I met her gaze.

I kept it for a moment. She remained still, but also still... breathing?

It was then that I had realized... "You are blind," I stated out loud, the knowledge a strange comfort.