It Was a Dark and Stormy Night

The wind crawled over the cold desert, caressing the deadwood, the grasses, the occasional creature that scampered in the night. It swept towards the tiny light, a long beacon shining in the chill blackness.

As the wind passed the old man, he shivered slightly as he haunched over the fire. But it was not the wind that chilled him this night–it was the tale he was telling to his companion. He licked his dry lips and hacked out a small cackle before resuming his tale.

“And then, after the master craftsman built the castle with its many rooms, the king and his court were greatly satisfied. The castle was beautiful and functional, and would serve the kingdom’s leaders well.

“But there was one who was dissatisfied with this castle’s perfection. One of the master’s apprentices, who had wanted the castle to be built his way, with his designs, was jealous of the acclaim and praise his master had received. His master had shared the credit with all of his workers, and was generous with the rewards he received, but for this apprentice, it was not enough.