After Mastermind left, I took Alice’s hand, and we walked the streets of old Phoenix. The cats watched us for a time. Then, one stopped in front of me, “Please follow.” We did. The cat led us out of old Phoenix, down a quiet path to a small, old house next to the lake.
“I’ve never seen this,” Alice stepped closer to me, looking at the cat, “What is this place?”
The cat walked to the door of the house, and mewed. A few moments later, the door opened, revealing an old man. His face etched with his age. “Welcome, children.” He motioned us to come into his home.
“Who are you?”
The cat answered, “The ancient one. He was here at the beginning.”
Alice stared at the cat. “The beginning?”
The old man smiled. “Many centuries ago.” He walked back inside, and Alice and I followed.
147 Words
@LurchMunster
This is part 21 in the continuing story I’m working on for Angela Goff’s Visual Dare. Please read the other entries in this week’s Visual Dare challenge.
My Soul's Tears 
Mark, this is mysterious but what I like the most is the gentle way you’ve introduced the story and, as it were, led us down the path as we follow the cat & the people. Really nicely done, sir :)))
Cats are all knowing! 😉 Love how you used the picture. Good follow on.
I agree with JoAnne. Your narrative voice and “hook” with this one is especially nice. It’s amazing how your storytelling voice has matured and grown more subtle over the months —- and I am still in awe at how you continue to weave together your add-on story after so many weeks!! Well done!