POV- You were told the devil liked children, like

Reading about the concept of being "devil touched" as described in "Hollow Wing of Blackmore" really made me think about how folklore often uses supernatural explanations to cope with real-world struggles like illness or deformities. In many cultures, mysterious signs like unusual markings or mental challenges were sometimes seen as signs of curses or deals with dark forces—a way to explain things that were otherwise difficult to understand. In the story's context, the idea that such "marks" signify a deal with the devil for fame, fortune, safety, or even a child adds a powerful layer of intrigue and horror. It plays on human fears of sacrifice and the unknown costs behind success or survival. What I found particularly haunting was the notion that the devil "always claims the child meant for greatness," reminding us how ambition and desire can sometimes come at an unforeseen price. As someone who enjoys horror micro-stories, this excerpt made me reflect on how horror often serves as a metaphor for societal fears—like the stigma surrounding mental illness or disabilities. By personifying these struggles as a devil’s mark, the story shines a light on the pain and isolation that can accompany them, while also wrapping it in eerie suspense. For readers intrigued by horror POVs and folklore-inspired tales, "The Ghost of Blackmore" available on Kindle Unlimited until April 6, and the upcoming release of "Hollow Wing of Blackmore," promise to delve deeper into these dark family secrets and shadowy deals. It’s a reminder that sometimes the scariest stories are those that connect back to our shared human experiences and the mysterious forces we imagine lurking behind them.