#themoonandthestar

[collenseward]

Looking Death in the Eye (WIP)

I don't know if I'll ever finish it; I don't know how to draw snow, and the background isn't working out for me—and to make matters worse, I still have to work on the clothes

But if I finish it and I like how it turns out, I'll show it to you. Oh, Charles, you and your misfortune, my sheila (Besides, those dark circles under Charles's eyes are going to be pretty significant down the road)

Honestly, his face could mean a thousand things at that moment—it’s open to interpretation. But based on the scenes from C1, given the horror he was forced to endure, I feel that by that point, he had already given up

Just a friendly reminder (and a fun fact, in case I haven’t mentioned it): Charles is only 19 years old, and in that scene, he had just turned 17

[collenseward]

Masterpost

Warning: In all my english posts I use translator sorry

[Master post 2/2] (Not necessary now)

24/7 working with humans

★ Kevin thoughts his life was a mess until he decided to apply for a job, not knowing that week would change everything.

ENG version 》 [1] [2] [3.1] [3.2] [4.1] [4.2 ANGST] [4.3] [5] [Fearplay chapter]

ES version 》 [1] [2] [3.1 (Solo en inglés)] [3.2] [4.1] [4.2 ANGST] [4.3] [5] [Juego de miedo cap]

Calder POV 》 [ENG] [ES] / One shot 》 [EN] [ES]

Behind the paragraph 》 [1] [2]

#24/7workingwithhumans

The Moon and the Star

★ Charles knew that the world was doomed because of humans, but when he meets Mr. Dobouis, he might notice that humans are not as he believed.

Old version 》 [ENG] [ES]

New Version ENG 》 [1] [2] [3] [3.1] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [8.1]

New Version ES 》 [1] [2] [3] [3.1] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [8.1]

Diccionary 》 [:DDD]

#themoonandthestar

One-shots

★ Pearls 》 Who would have thot that the fear of losing someone would make you lose your mind? What if you had already lost your sanity when you met him?

[ENG] [ES]

#oneshots

The Rose's Marionette

★ What could love do for that poor enamored one? Maybe he is aware of being manipulated for life (Continuous warnings in each chapter)

Old sketch 》 [???]

Short parts ES 》 [1/No hay :c] [2]

Short parts ENG 》 [1] [2]

#therose'smarionette

[collenseward]

The moon and the star (Part 2)

(...)

—What are you?—

Ah, what a lovely way to start, don’t you think? Even better that I’m drowning inside the damn glass you trapped me in, DON’T YOU THINK?

Exactly, this human was garbage just like all the others.

Always curious, always dominant, always wanting to take, and even though for a single second I had believed in him… he had completely disappointed me.

I pressed my lips in disdain, pulling my crystal sword from behind my back, my tail slowly moving behind me. The human frowned, I hissed through my teeth.

I didn’t know what I was doing, but after a couple of minutes I started to feel intimidated by the human’s stare. It was strange and confusing, but I didn’t stop looking at him—if I did, it would probably mean my death.

We could have stayed like that for a while until the human decided to open his mouth and whisper with a stupid softness:

—Sihja?—

He said, in a pathetic attempt to pronounce the word, staring at me with wide eyes.

How. Dare. You.

I froze in place, instinctively looking up at the moon for answers. Did this human just insult me? In my own damn language? How dare he! He just stared at me with that idiot face, waiting for a response.

—Tam soklo, sijha—

I spat through my teeth, gripping my sword and regaining my composure from the earlier shock. The human didn’t react, he just turned around, crouched to pick up the fallen paper bag, and walked away.

Is this a good time to panic?

Yes, I think it is.

I hadn’t even processed everything. I was inside a glass, though I don’t think that’s exactly what it is. I sniffed the air around me—it smelled like dish soap and berries. Probably one of those jam jars he reuses to store things, it smelled like the processed jam he buys to make those blueberry cookies. I never got to eat any because of that damn jam.

I couldn’t see him anymore. It was dark except for the light our lady, the moon, gave me, so I couldn’t make him out. Damn it, why didn’t city borrowers evolve night vision too?

I stayed still, listening to the human moving as he placed the bags on another table. I shifted anxiously inside the jar, and without realizing it, I was already pacing in circles. What if he was going to get rid of me? He had never been cruel to rodents or animals that entered his home. But I don’t know what he considers me.

If I speak in English, he’ll understand me, and his useless brain will finally process enough to realize I’m a real creature. If he thought this was a dream.

It was incredibly uncomfortable seeing him up close—his slightly slanted eyes and smooth skin, he had shaved recently from what I had seen. Just thinking about being near him again made me shiver in disgust.

I couldn’t see anything until he turned back. His eyes glowed in the dark. And so did a knife.

I froze in place, gripping my sword until my knuckles turned white. I muttered again:

—Noi kelli, tam…—

I watched him move toward me, my breathing quickening. His hands moved, the blade shining in the moonlight. I squeaked in response, pressing myself against the glass wall, my tail bristling.

—Sihja tam! Noi kelli, feou—

I shouted before he got close enough. I pressed my lips together before being forced to yell:

—Alright, alright! I do speak your language! Stay away from me!—

I exclaimed, my hands trembling as the kitchen light suddenly turned on, making me scream at the brightness. When my eyes adjusted, I saw him again.

Do you know how pathetic it is to be scared of a fruit knife? Very, because once I recovered, all I saw was a pathetic human staring at me in surprise with a half-peeled apple in his hands. He had been peeling it while walking, and all I did was scream like a baby. Oh great.

—I was planning to persuade you with the apple… but the knife did all the work. Sorry about that—

He said, to my surprise, leaning closer. I instinctively leaned back, gripping my sword, hitting the wall of the jar.

—What… what are you, kid? You look like a little rat with…—

—Call me that again and I’ll cut your hand off, idiot—

I snapped sharply, maybe enough to scare him so he wouldn’t dare tap the glass. I wrapped my tail around my leg and stepped forward, eyes fixed on him. I might have been scared, but he didn’t need to know that.

—Sorry…—

He said, to my surprise, pulling a chair and sitting down. He looked smaller now. He ran a hand through his hair as he murmured:

—I should’ve been more careful… I’m going to do something, allow me—

I didn’t understand until the world started moving. I screamed as the jar was turned again, still trapped but now able to climb up and out.

—Maybe I’m not… making a good impression, sorry—

He muttered, scratching the back of his neck. I held my breath when his fingers approached the rim of the jar, leaving a piece of fruit inside. This was humiliating.

—I’m Jason—

He introduced himself, holding his own apple.

So that was his name. I didn’t know. Not that I cared.

There was silence before he asked:

—Who are you?—

At least he changed the tone. I didn’t think he cared that much—it was… strange. Even if he asked differently, it wasn’t easy to answer. I closed my eyes before saying:

—I’m Charles—

I replied without hesitation. I took out the laurel leaf I had kept to pick up the apple with it, wrapping it completely. The human just nodded and said nothing.

I sat on the ground, pressing the fruit to my chest before whispering:

—Len twu seoa—

—What are you doing?—

The human asked. I looked at him warily as I finally ate the fruit. It was sweet, and I couldn’t help the small smile that escaped my lips. It had been a long time since I had fresh apple.

—You’re not as grumpy as you look, huh kid?—

I scoffed, remembering he was there.

—I’m not a kid, I’m 19—

He just laughed at that, rolling his eyes.

—You’re still a kid in my eyes, you’re barely old enough to drink—

I rolled my eyes as I took the last bite. I didn’t reply. For his bad luck, he was wrong—I had drunk alcohol before.

I was 12, at one of my first harvest festivals, properly dressed.

It was a sweet wine that tasted like wild berries from the valley. In your face, human.

—You’re not human, are you?—

I heard him say again. I pressed my lips together. This was too much. I shouldn’t even be here, much less revealing something like that.

But it was either that or get my head cut off with that knife. I didn’t trust him at all—he was so… human. Ugh.

—I’m a Chaslediki—

I said, laughing internally at his confused reaction. It’s so satisfying to speak the forest tongue.

—A what?—

I rolled my eyes before translating.

—A borrower—

We stayed silent for a moment. Honestly, I just wanted to go home. My heart was racing and I was tired. It would probably be morning soon.

—You read the letter…—

Shit.

—No… I can’t read—

I lied shamelessly, my tail flicking rapidly. I had to grab it instinctively. My father used to say it was the biggest sign I was lying. He was always right.

—I saw you react to every word. I know you can read—

Double shit.

I had no defense. I stood quickly, going back on guard.

—I knew it, humans are never good, this is a bad sign, you—

—Now you have to help me—

Wait. Did I hear that right?

—What?—

I blurted, my voice coming out higher than I wanted. He nodded, not angry, just serious.

—I have a lot to say. Things I can explain now. Like the time my batch of fermented blueberries disappeared for no reason—

Was that useful to him? What the hell?

—Who even goes looking for fermented blueberries?!—

I said, shocked. He didn’t react.

—Also I recognize that fabric. That’s part of a tablecloth I lost years ago—

What kind of lunatic remembers that?

—That’s not—! Where are you going with this?!—

—If you already know, and I can conclude you live in my house, then you should know I have an order for a wedding cake… I need manpower—

This was the dumbest request I had heard in years.

—I am NOT helping you make a cake!—

He sighed.

—Kid, it’s the least you can do after being invasive with my things. You got yourself involved—

I shook my head again, crossing my arms.

—No way—

I could’ve kept my composure.

Until he picked me up by the tail.

My whole body tensed. I glared at him, furious.

—Put me down. Now—

He shook his head.

—Not until you promise to help me… If you do, I’ll put you down and leave you alone after this—

I let out an exaggerated sigh, my body going limp for a second between his fingers.

I was going to refuse. I was going to cut his finger off with my crystal blade and run to another house. Start over.

But I remembered how my chest tightened reading those words.

Was he crying over that woman?

As impure as he was, he was right. I had gotten involved. Too involved this time.

I groaned.

—Solko tam… fine, I’ll help you… now put me down!—

He smiled slightly. Damn human enjoying suffering. My feet touched the counter.

—Don’t ever pick me up like that again! Don’t ever touch me!—

I snapped, but he just looked at me like he didn’t understand, with that stupid face. I rubbed my collar to calm down.

—As much as I don’t want to, I’ll help you… just don’t touch me. And we’re fine—

He nodded, serious and confused.

—Whatever you say, kid—

That sarcastic look he used in calls with his family. I recognized it.

I was about to snap at him when I saw something from the corner of my eye.

I froze.

I turned.

A crow.

Shit. SHIT.

I would recognize that rose headband anywhere.

Brisa.

Brisa. The daughter of the woman of the wind. My friend.

She had seen me.

She had seen me.

Her eyes widened. Jason turned too. She let out a cry and shouted something at him he didn’t understand:

—Tam! Ikeru!—

I pressed my lips together. I wanted to respond, say anything—but she flew away with her crow, leaving the letter she came to deliver.

I ran, gathering courage, jumping off the table, climbing down the leg. It was harder than I thought, I stepped wrong and twisted my ankle slightly.

But I made it to the window ledge using the curtain, like I had many times before—to Jason’s surprise.

《Dear Yutanyu,

As every year, I wanted to inform you that you are invited to the Harvest Festival, with the rank of worshipper. I loved your offering from last year, our lady must have loved that dress. Likewise, you should know you must come properly dressed, as we have a surprise for you.

You should know the date is in two days, and the gathering will be in the Forest of Stars. My mother will be delighted to see you again, as every year. I would also like to speak more with you that day, so let me know so we can talk more properly soon.

SohPo Usia’s twu u :)

Sincerely,

Breila》

Oh shit.

[collenseward]

The moon and the star (Parte 8)

W: Escenas de discriminación por ambas partes ¡No se está romantizando ninguna de estas!

(...)

—¡Silencio—

Una vez resonó con más fuerza que las demás, haciendo que todos giramos a esa dirección, la gran Zekiwie alzó su voz a diferencia de los demás pero igualmente temblaba, con la antorcha más grande en las manos

—¡No debemos preocuparnos!—

Exclamó parándose firme y detrás de ella las “cenizas” y “constelaciones” con sus expresiones serias, susurrandoles cosas en esa lengua extraña.

—¡Estamos juntos en esto! ¡Debemos encontrar tariar!—

Oh no.

El ambiente se tornó tenso. Ni siquiera habíamos podido terminar la ceremonia por completo, se oía el frágil llanto de los niños junto al viento y el recuerdo tácito invadía las cabezas de todos, comiendo el juicio.

—Orianta ha regresado…—

Alguien masculló, no se volvió a oír ninguna voz, ni siquiera la propia líder pudo refutar la afirmación, los susurros y murmullos resurgieron. Wiere me apretó la mano de repente y sentí su mirada a través de mí. No dije nada, sabía porque me veía.

Busqué a Belei entre la multitud, escudriñando entre las personas, lo ví meterse entre las sombras de los arbustos.

Estaba huyendo.

Me solté de la mano de Wiere y me dispuse a pasar entre la multitud, ignorando el llamado de mi hermana, me metí hasta que el calor del fuego dejó de sentirse. Veía una luz, una pequeña antorcha iluminando el camino.

Había agarrado la pluma que adornaba su cabeza y tirado al suelo, pisandola

—Deja de seguirme… Koi ikeru—

Oí sus palabras antes de girarse hacia mí, mi voz salió mordaz de mis labios

—Haz hecho algo, hermano—

Acusé, él no titubeó, simplemente negó con la cabeza

—No tiene caso quedarse, el pueblo está paranoico ahora mismo—

Me dijo, una risa sarcástica salió de sus labios, ladeó la cabeza antes de fijarse en mi rostro

—Curioso que me acuses de tariar siendo tú el que apesta a humano ¿No lo crees?—

Me quedé de piedra, para mi desgracia, él solo suspiró

—Así que mis suposiciones eran correctas… Qué maravilla—

Pateó una piedra distraídamente con su cola moviéndose ligeramente en una sonrisa satisfactoria, tenía un nudo en la garganta

—¿Quién diría que el joven más aferrado a su cultura estaría en posición de amistarse lo suficiente con un humano para oler fugazmente a este?—

Me dijo de forma condescendiente, arrojó su antorcha a un montículo de hojas, este comenzó a arder como una fogata

—No lo es… No tengo nada que explicarte—

Me retracté en el momento, él solo me sonrió

—Ay hermanito… Sé todo sobre ti—

Me dijo, colocándose la capa sobre sus hombros, sacudió su cola de las cenizas antes de mover sus orejas hacia mí dirección

—Hemos estado juntos tanto tiempo ¿Crees que no olería los nervios de Wiere? ¿Crees que no notaría la mentira?—

Indicó, cruzándose de brazos, como si se burlara de mí, no pude reprimir mi voz en la siguiente oración

—No olvides la hoguera, Belei—

Siseé entre dientes, apuntando con mi cola hacia su pecho, se descolocó con un momento, aproveché para empujarlo, no lo evitó

—No olvides todo lo que me dijiste, no olvides lo que opinas… De hecho, entre los dos, yo creo saber quien es el verdadero tariar—

Los ojos de Belei se agudizaron con mis palabras y pude ver, muy ligeramente, la misma culpa que vi momentos atrás en sus ojos encendidos por el fuego. Con su cola apagó la llama.

Y se puso a correr, para mi sorpresa.

—¡¿A dónde vas?!—

Corrí detrás de él, evitando las hojas que apenas podía observar y esquivando las piedras, oía sus pasos, su respiración agitada. Mis pies descalzos debían estar sangrado por las piedras pequeñas del suelo y la tierra sucia, en un momento, oí su voz.

—¡Kath!—

No pude ver nada, pues caí de bruces con una raíz seca, hundida en la tierra, ensuciando mi rostro, pero sus pasos habían desaparecido, como si se hubiera desvanecido, si hace un segundo había estado corriendo…

Algo anda mal. Algo anda muy mal.

(...)

Cuando miré atrás, él ya no estaba y me había dejado sola.

Pov Wiere:

Le habría gritado que no me deje atrás pero no me hizo caso, solo se metió entre la multitud, desapareciendo de mi vista, la gente seguía murmurando hasta que mi madre los mandó a callar con la mano, todos girando hacia ella.

—A todos que no sean del pueblo, los mandamos a casa, no podemos seguir así—

Les dijo a los demás, la misma niña que Yu había ayudado estaba llorando en brazos de su madre con una pena en la mirada, los prestatarios de ciudad arrastraban sus píes hacia fuera del bosque.

Mi madre bajó ignorando los gritos de algunos de los compatriotas de Yu que suplicaban para no dejarlos desamparados, tuve que quedarme quieta mientras ella se acercaba a mi, tomándome de la mano.

—Vamos a casa, soila—

Asentí con la cabeza, con ella caminando, miró a los lados antes de susurrarme al oído con voz preocupada

—¿Dónde está Belei?—

Negué con la cabeza antes de murmurar

—No lo he visto al igual que no ví a Yu después del apagón. No me dijo nada antes de llevarme de la mano al cedro que llamábamos hogar.

La vida en el campo era diferente a lo que otros pudieran aspirar, aquí sí se podía respirar, algo que no todos tienen el privilegio de tener. Y a pesar de que esta noche el aire estaba más pesado, se seguía sintiendo el calor del hogar.

El pueblo se mantenía en vigía, los pobladores trepaban el árbol y se metían en sus casas dentro del tronco, mi madre y yo caminábamos en el centro de todo, algunos pobladores se acercaron a ella.

—Zekiwie, tenemos problemas con la cosecha de bayas—

Le entregaron un par de hojas de arce garabateadas con tinta, me soltó la mano.

—Señora, las heapes les falta medicamentos—

Le dijo una mujer que le quitaba la montura a su cuervo, agitaba su cola con nerviosismo a la vez que le entregaba más hojas con anotaciones.

Y así uno por uno se le fueron acercando, sabía que esto del abandono lunar afectaría al pueblo, solo que no esperaba que fuera tan rápido. Podía ver mi casa desde aquí, las antorchas hacían un camino perfecto hasta allí arriba, casi no oigo a mi madre cuando me dijo

—Bajaré al Lenori, ve yendo a casa—

Me dijo dándome su capa, asentí antes de correr hacia el árbol y trepar como siempre supe.

Desde aquí podía ver todo. Olía al hogar.

Dejé la capa en el sofá y fuí al balcón de mi casa. Sabía que Yu había huido y sabía el porqué. Sabía que Bel había huido y no sabía el porqué, esto se estaba poniendo confuso demasiado para analizar y lidiar.

Pero no había olvidado la vez que ví a Yu tan cerca de esa criatura, de todo esto ¿Qué estaba pasando con él? ¿Por qué había empezado a cambiar? ¿La profecía fue cierta?

Había demasiadas cosas que pensar, mucho que responder. Y aún me quedaban las dudas sobre Belei, si mañana no regresaba, tendría que empezar a investigar. O podría preguntarle a los gemelos, una chispa y un luz, que me respondas estas dudas.

Pero con Yu, me lo respondería él mismo, iré a buscarlo.

Chifle a mi cuervo, Doi, después de una hora de pensar en cómo lo afrontaría él y me subí a él, ya habiendo cambiado mi ropa y colocando la montura emprendí la marcha.

Debía ir a verlo, sabía que estaba ahí, que estaba en casa, seguramente tuvo que pensar de más e irse corriendo.

Divisé su hogar a lo lejos, la casa en la ciudad, olía siempre a mantequilla y carbón, una mezcla bastante curiosa, agité las correas y descendí hasta el alféizar de la ventana. Para mi sorpresa, Yu estaba ahí parado. Y para mi sorpresa aún mayor, estaba sangrando.

—¡Yu!—

Exclamé entrando por la ventana, lo abracé antes de que pudiera decirme cualquier cosa, lo sentía temblar

—¡¿Subiste por la ventana?! ¡¿Así?!—

Le dije sosteniendo su rostro entre mis manos, estaba pálido como la nieve del invierno y sus palabras fueron peores

—Debes irte—

No un saludo y un empujón, sino que me fuera. Estaba confundida, me acomodé mi vincha hecha de pétalos de rosas

—Yu, no puedo dejarte así ¡Estás herido!—

Volví a acercarme pero se alejó, estaba aún más confundida, tenía los ojos bien abiertos. Ví lo mismo que vi esta noche cuando se apareció: Culpa. Una culpa que podría masticar si me proponía, que lo corroía

—Yu ¡Debes decirme qué está pasando! Hace dos noches fue humano, hoy no quisiste contestar y escapaste, Belei se fue ¡Tú sabes algo!—

Lo acusé, cansandome al fin, apuntando con el dedo, la ventana hacía que el aire entrara, me cubrí con la cola

—... No es el momento, Wi—

Me dijó, gruñí en respuesta, repliqué

—¿Entonces cuándo? Te voy recordando que hoy la luna nos dejó y sabes lo que parece ¡Sabes lo que parece considerando todo!—

Él solo respondió apuntando con su cola hacia mi pecho

—No es el momento Wiere… ¡Vete Wiere!—

Estaba cansada, iba a gritar de frustración, se apretó la pierna herida que sangraba, parecía que se había cortado con una piedra.

Iba a replicar hasta que una voz mucho más fuerte habló primero

—Tengo aloe, miel y pomada de caléndulas… Y vendas de algodón puro, disculpa por no haber…—

La voz se fue apagando antes de que ambos nos giramos. No pude reprimir el grito que salió de mi garganta al ver a un humano parado delante nuestro, este retrocedió de inmediato.

—Charles… Es la niña de rosas—

El mencionado me miró con una desesperación su rostro, retrocedí de su lado, las palabras se escaparon de mi garganta sin pensarlas

—Creí que eras mi hermano… ¿Qué has hecho?—

Pude ver su cuerpo temblando ¿Por qué no lo entendí más rápido? No, esto no estaba pasando, esto no puede estar pasando con mi hermano.

Sé que las profetas dijeron que su cerebro se pudriría más rápido pero no esperaba esto, no pude callar mi voz antes de que dijera lo peor.

—... Eres Orianta, eres Orianta reencarnada—

[collenseward]

The moon and the star (Parte 7)

W: Escenas discriminatorias en contra del personaje principal, escenas de pánico ¡Ninguna de estas está siendo romantizada!

(...)

Me vi obligado a ponerme de rodillas en el suelo después de oír los pasos acercarse, apoyando la cabeza en el suelo antes de escuchar la voz de Wiere

—Chackle, madre—

Le vi hacer la reverencia respectiva, después de la cual tuve la libertad de levantarme, sacudiendome la tierra de la vestimenta, la mujer que me supera en altura por una cabeza, frunció el ceño, mirándome a la cara

—¿Las curanderas ya pasaron por ti?—

Mi rostro se ensombreció de inmediato, apreté los labios antes de reprimir una mueca, solo asintiendo con la cabeza sin mirarla a la cara, ví a Wiere queriendo hablar pero la voz dulce de su madre, contradiciendo su reacción anterior, me llamaba

—Oh, entonces… Ven aquí, hijo mío—

Me acerqué a ella antes de que me rodeara con sus brazos y darme un abrazo que no pude rechazar, cerré los ojos un momento antes de finalmente sentirme digno de mirarla a la cara, a la que nos conectaba a nuestra diosa.

Ser una figura de esa magnitud era simplemente magnifico, un milagro en mi opinión, que la diosa haya intercedido por nosotros tomando la voz de una persona, y que esa persona puede darme un abrazo en este mismo instante.

—¿Cómo ha ido tu año, Yu? Me han contado cosas de ti por boca de mi hija—

Me estremecí de solo pensarlo ¿Qué habrá dicho de mí? Ignoré el escalofrío que me recorrió por la espalda hasta la punta de la cola antes de balbucear

—He estado bien, gran Zekiwie, nada de lo que deba preocuparse—

Ella me sonrió antes de dirigir la mirada a su hija, movió la mano restando importancia

—Oh hijo, deja tus formalidades, no te preocupes—

Me dijo sonriendo, desvié la mirada hacia Wiere, mientras ella se encogió de hombros apoyó su mano en el hombro de su madre

—Dile la razón por la que lo llamaste mamá—

Le dijo, la mujer se emocionó, le tomó las manos a su hija antes de mirarme a la cara

—Hijo, sé lo mucho que adoras nuestro pueblo, que nunca nos has traicionado y tu devoción es admirable…—

Comenzó diciendo, me quedé frío en mi lugar, mirando a ambas mujeres, Wiere sonrió suavemente mientras su madre continuaba

—... Y estamos conscientes de tu amor hacia Sopho Usia, de tu dedicación hacia nuestra diosa y lo mucho que has sacrificado—

—Por eso quisiera que tomaras el rol de representante para la próxima junta que tengamos—

Me quedé congelado en mi lugar mientras la mujer seguía hablando conmigo, Wiere se lanzó a mis brazos, sonriendo. Volví a concentrarme en la voz de las mujeres que me seguían dando información

—Serás uno de los primeros representantes de tu edad en tu rama, irás con los otros representantes a las reuniones y tendrás derecho de opinión—

Asentí con la cabeza mientras me limpiaba las lágrimas que no había notado en mi cara con los brazos de Wiere alrededor mío, bajé la cabeza y asentí con emoción antes de que la alta mujer se colocara una capa bajo sus hombros.

—Lo anunciaremos en la hoguera sagrada, sé que es un poco tardado considerando que ya pasó el festival de constelaciones—

Dijo la mujer antes de darse media vuelta

—Vayan a la hoguera cuando inicie la ceremonia—

Y se retiró. Tuve que tragarme mi llanto antes de derretirme en el abrazo frío de Wiere, un abrazo que sabía que dolería en un tiempo. La conversación anterior aún está en pausa, solo está esperando el momento perfecto para resurgir.

(...)

Veía a los niños corretear alrededor mío y Wiere me tomaba de la mano, su mirada preocupada en su rostro regresó cuando dejé de lagrimear y me llevó entre el festival. Como siempre, estaba lleno de vida iluminado con antorchas y luciérnagas revoloteaban alrededor nuestro.

Me ofreció una baya cocida en una hoguera pequeña, algo bastante común en el pueblo, mientras decidía resistir el impulso de continuar la anterior en público

—Veo que te has vuelto a pintar las estrellas en la cara—

Me encogí de hombros mordiendo la fruta, cuidando de no ensuciar mi ropa

—Es la norma, supongo—

Nos quedamos en silencio, pude divisar a lo lejos a las “chispas”, sabias niñas, hijas de las “constelaciones” que eran los brujos del pueblo, ya sentadas en sus puestos, antes las había visto caminando. Aunque se las veía preocupadas, susurrando entre ellas en la lengua de las estrellas, prohibida para nosotros.

El aire olía a fresas y carne, extraña combinación para los humanos pero perfecta y deliciosa en mi opinión, mi cola se movió de solo pensar en el banquete y tuve que sujetarla con la mano para no verme ridículo al caminar, a pesar de la mirada curiosa de Wiere, no dijo nada.

La hoguera estaba en el centro y ya podía ver a los niños del pueblo sentados alrededor y a unos jóvenes prestatarios de ciudad parados jugando alrededor.

—¡Oye, devuélveme eso!—

Oí una voz femenina sospechosamente familiar chillando por ayuda, pronto reparé en que era la misma niña a la que le había dado una de mis cuentas, volteé la cabeza tal vez demasiado rápido, lo que hizo que Wiere notara el cambio de expresión en mi rostro. Era la misma niñita, a la que le habían arrancado la cuenta en forma de estrella unos niños de campo más grandes que ella.

—¿Planeabas usar esto? Esto es joyería de ciudad, debe estar sucio—

Comentó una de ellas, mientra la joven víctima negaba con la cabeza, oí a otra comentar

—No te lo pongas en el collar, te volverás ikeru—

Quise replicar en respuesta y ya estaba dando un paso hacia adelante cuando sentí una mano sujetarme de la cola, Wiere negó con la cabeza antes de soltarme

—No puedes intervenir Charles, son niños—

Apreté los labios antes de darme la vuelta y susurrar

—¿Y dejar que esos niños la humillen?—

Volteé incrédulo a verla al oírla decir

—Tal vez hubiera sido mejor que no le dieras la cuenta—

Me quedé callado, me alejé unos pasos después de ver a las niñas triturar la cuenta entre sus manos. Wiere tenía razón. Me quedé callado mientras me colocaba su mano en mi hombro, no dije nada y solo me paré frente a la hoguera, sabiendo que oiría la misma historia.

Las luces cercanas se apagaron y apareció una joven historiadora del pueblo, ya con la vestimenta característica del festival, y parada en el frente de un público que ya había aumentado, comenzó a hablar

«Hace mucho tiempo, cuando la tierra aún estaba pura y desolada, dos dioses salieron a bendecirla. La pureza, la luna y la impureza, el sol, los dos funcionaban con equilibrio hasta que en un momento dado, nuestra señora decidió bendecir al planeta con nuestra existencia.

Todo era paz y algarabía en la tierra, llena de vegetación y flores, risas de mundos nocturnos. Hasta que el sol estuvo celoso de la paz de nosotros, que mandó a sus criaturas. Y maldijo a Orianta, para que su historia de maldad se desplace de boca en boca»

Se hizo un silencio después de esa pausa, la historiadora dió un momento para procesar antes de continuar

«Los traidores fueron expulsados después que la diosa nos diera sus virtudes para echarlos y la paz ha regresado desde que tenemos a nuestra guia, la Zekiwie, que nos ha bendecido con su sabiduría y conocimiento… Dicho esto, damos la entrada al ¡Festival de la cosecha!» Se oyeron aplausos a la distancia mientras la mujer del viento caminaba entre la multitud, seguida de una banda sonora con los instrumentos tradicionales y los bailarines detrás de ella, dando la vibra mágica que había amado desde niño.

Dió un discurso muy bonito, como siempre ofreciendo los votos a la luna y se cantaron los himnos clásicos que me sabía de memoria, las “Cenizas” junto a las curanderas dieron la charla anual y a la vez se comenzaron a contar los logros del año, se presentó la cosecha anual y con grandes aplausos se le colocó a una joven mujer una cuenta hecha de una piedra brillante, por haber tenido la cosecha más próspera del año pasado. Ya estaba medio dormido antes de oír a la gran Zekiwie mencionar mi nombre.

¿Quién? ¿Yo?

—Quisiera dar el pase especial a uno de los chaslediki´s sawe más importantes de nuestra comunidad—

Dijo mientras Wiere me daba un empujoncito con la mano, caminé hacia adelante, sintiendo las miradas de todos puestas en mí antes de pararme al lado de la mujer, ella asintió con la cabeza antes de darme una cuenta en forma de luna, de color plateado, muy hermosa. Algo que no podría obtener si solo fuera un prestatario de campo normal.

—Yutannyu, tú creciste en nuestra tierra y sabes más de ella que ninguno de tu raza, por ello, hemos decidido el consejo y yo, nombrarte representante de tu raza—

Se escucharon los aplausos mientras asentía con la cabeza, enrollando mi cola en mi pierna, su cola me señaló al público, mientras una “constelación” le susurraba algo al oído

—Pueblo querido, es el momento que hemos esperado esta noche, pronto será momento para ver nuestra fortuna y celebrar como todos los años, prepárense para apagar las antorchas finales—

Los bailarines tomaron las 15 antorchas restantes que iluminaban el oscuro bosque, podías ver las nubes revelando poco a poco su contenido mientras por cada momento se apagaba una antorcha, todo el pueblo ya estaba cerca a nosotros, rodeados de niños, jovenes, adultos y ancianos que miraban al cielo al oir la cuenta regresiva.

—¡Tres!—

Tomé la mano de Wiere de los nervios, ella me dió una leve sonrisa antes de alzar su mirada al cielo

—¡Dos!—

Vi nuevamente a las “chispas” y “luces” hablando entre ellos, sin entender sus voces que sonaban aún muy nerviosas.

—¡Uno!—

Vi a Belei mirándome fijamente antes de que la última antorcha se apague.

Pero lo que oí no fueron gritos de júbilo, fueron gritos de pánico, la gente corría alrededor de nosotros con miedo, ni siquiera la mujer del viento lograría calmarlos pues en el cielo había algo que ninguno de nosotros podría haber previsto.

No había luna. El cielo estaba negro, sin la presencia de nuestra diosa.

Wiere me soltó la mano, entre las sombras y con mi pobre visión nocturna pude ver su rostro aterrado, me soltó violentamente y seguramente también vió mi expresión de mi rostro incrédulo.

Entre la multitud que ya habían encendido antorchas, noté la mirada de Belei puesta en mi, pero para mi sorpresa había una mirada que nunca había visto en él.

Una mirada que sabía lo que estaba mirando. Y que se sentía culpable por ello. Pero lo extraño de todo esto es que yo sabía que tenía la misma mirada. La mirada de culpa.

Porque las dos veces que no hubo luna frente a nosotros fueron cuando los humanos llegaron a la tierra hace milenios y cuando Orianta fue desterrada en la hoguera. Lo que significaba que un traidor estaba presente, un traidor que va a destruirnos a todos de nuevo.

¿Qué he hecho?

[collenseward]

The moon and the star (Part 6)

W: Fight scenes, violencia and discrimination ¡NONE of these actions are romanticized!

(...)

—He saw me! He saw me! Solk, he saw me! I know you warned me, I got careless, I'm sorry, please forgive me—

—You need to calm down, little bird. It could have happened—

—I don't understand! I used my spell!—

—Maybe you exposed it for too long, brother—

—This... Flox! What am I going to do?!—

—Calm down. Let the matter take root... I'm not angry, I promise—

—... I'm sorry. I'm the worst older brother in the universe—

—The moon would say otherwise than the sun—

—How funny...—

(...)

The moon would be with us this time, of that I had no doubt.

The wind struck my face, and I pressed my lips together, gripping my bag with both hands before raising my head and watching the flock of crows continue on its course. The world didn't know it, but our world was celebrating.

Spring had finally arrived.

I pushed the undergrowth aside with my sword before brushing my hair behind my shoulders. I caught sight of the first sign left by our people, the hemlocks planted like a small bush. I smiled and headed in the opposite direction. It would be good to have this respite.

As every year, darkness ruled the path. Our Lady remained hidden behind the clouds. My first match was already burning my fingers, and I had to strike another one against a rock to light it.

I had to be careful not to accidentally set the meadow ablaze. My feet already felt the burden of the journey. Once again, I ran into clusters of hemlock bushes and had to turn around, pivoting on my heels to continue. The shadows swallowed me as I finally reached the forest itself, the trees towering above me.

The wind ceased to strike me once the leaves embraced me.

And everything became quieter.

Though I knew how it worked.

My second match burned away between my fingers, and I had to pull out the last one before lighting it against a stone. Not much farther now. Just a little more.

It's far more comfortable when you come in a group. Usually, the journey is accompanied by the mapdps and songs about plants and beginnings. Sometimes I miss singing them with my sister.

A shame we're not very close.

A shame she now knows I've spoken with a human.

I'm completely screwed, now that I think about it.

I know denying it won't help. All I can do is hope he hasn't opened his mouth and that I won't be the offering thrown into the bonfire.

There have been sacrifices among our people throughout history. It wouldn't be impossible for someone to decide to revive the old customs. Who knows? Maybe I'm walking straight toward my death.

I can't deny that thought is eating me alive.

Until I heard the sweet sound of the mapdps.

Oh. We've arrived.

Always the same rhythm. Always the same voices.

I couldn't help but smile when I saw the glow of the native villagers' torches.

At last, we had arrived.

There was an old song that said, translated from the Language of the Wind:

"When the rains withdraw and the snow melts, there will always be one of us leaving a trail behind, longing to return home."

It was the song sung to welcome us—"Yun a Len."

And then the firelight struck our faces.

The glorious bonfire burned before us. Children ran among us with their dolls and spears. The smell of the ovens filled the air.

It felt like home.

It was my home.

—Chack! Welcome, everyone! You know how it works: clothes into the bonfire and belongings buried for the chaslediki's sawe—

A voice called out from the distance. One of the Ashes stood among the brush alongside a few throwers.

As always, one of the worst parts—at least for the children who had to stop running around—was lining up for the cleansing.

But the atmosphere was no longer silent.

Because we were safe.

In a part of the forest where they could never find us.

Because it is said that beneath our feet, the goddess protects us with her spell.

She granted us the blessing of remaining hidden.

But she also cursed us to despise one another.

—Yutanyu?—

I froze when I heard my name spoken by a familiar voice. I was already near the front of the line, and the moment I opened my mouth, aloe was smeared across me.

—Ugh! Solko, could you be any gentler? It's not like I'm Orianta—

The healer merely chuckled. I recognized her voice as one of the many girls I'd played with in the meadows when I was young.

I rolled my eyes as ashes fell onto my head.

—You know the drill. Clothes to the bonfire and this on top—

She said, gesturing with her fluffy tail before handing me the garments.

I nodded and disappeared into the bushes.

We didn't view nudity the way humans did.

Honestly, I didn't understand it.

I didn't understand the reactions I'd witnessed in the streets, nor their opinions.

According to Lenio, our bodies were a form of art and expression.

For humans, their own bodies seemed to mean thousands of things we couldn't understand.

Yet another mystery of their society.

I removed the cloth I wore and dressed in feathered skirts, a plush accessory made from rabbit fur, cloaks woven from fine silk embroidered with intricate patterns, necklaces adorned with carved stones, and finally a crow feather pinned into my hair.

I was home.

I took out the offerings I'd brought, wrapped them in laurel leaves, and buried my bag in the earth.

Probably cheating, but I marked the spot with a branch before moving on.

As always, everything was one great celebration.

The sacred flames danced at the center around the enormous bonfire that took weeks to build.

The Constellations had already taken their places around it. Their sons and daughters followed close behind, all dressed in fine white fabrics.

The sound of the cosck—ancient drums—echoed together with the mapdps, small flutes already being played, making people dance even before the ceremony began.

Children gathered acorns and tiny treasures they intended to burn.

Some welcomed us with the traditional leaf crowns.

A freckled little girl approached me and offered one.

I smiled so she wouldn't feel bad.

—Your freckles are beautiful, sir—

This time I didn't have to force my smile.

I handed her one of the beads from my necklace.

The field apprentice ran off delighted.

I'm glad the newer generations are changing.

Decades ago, none of those children would have welcomed me.

[collenseward]

The Moon and The Star (Part 3.1)

(...)

—Why do you torment me like this?—

I complained, lowering my gaze before murmuring again.

—I don’t even know how you ended up here, I just…—

I felt the warmth I already knew silencing my lips. I stepped back, my legs trembling. The voice that sounded like birdsong spoke again. I covered my ears.

—Please, I don’t understand you… Stop, just stop, please—

I shook my head, lifting my eyes upward, toward the sky. It could have been daytime in that very moment, from the sheer amount of light burning my eyes. I had to rub them as my vision blurred.

—When will I be able to see you? When will you…?—

My voice suddenly cut off. A beam of light pierced my eyes, making me cry out in pain. The last thing I felt was my body giving out against the bed, my head hitting the pillow.

(...)

I didn’t expect to wake up surrounded by sunflowers. I didn’t expect to wake up in a field at all. I didn’t expect to wake up.

—Soile… Weit—

That voice again.

It was always the same. The same sound like river water, or wind brushing through leaves. It pretended to be soft, calm, reassuring, warm.

But it wasn’t.

In fact, it did the opposite. It always did.

And I hated it.

—Soile… Feou—

Again. It spoke to me again, I heard it again. What the hell was it begging me for? Where had it taken me? It usually spoke to me in dreams, but this was different. I felt a small tug at the hem of my pants and looked in that direction.

A lagoon.

I walked carefully, watching a robin fly nearby, guiding me to the water. When I leaned over, I couldn’t see my reflection. Only murky water reflecting the sun like glass before me. I sat down on the ground, sighing heavily, my eyes half-closed from the heat. The same robin perched on a nearby oak tree, on one of its thinnest branches.

—Yutanyu… U rember heo?—

I flinched as the same voice echoed, loud enough to be heard even through the foliage. I pressed my lips together, not understanding anything. I hated it. I hated all of this. I hated not understanding. I hated being subjected to it. I heard a sigh behind my neck before feeling something tighten around my throat. I stood up immediately.

—What do you want from me? Leave me alone!—

The pressure vanished, and the breeze trembled slightly, the lake water rippling. I didn’t care.

I didn’t care if the… entity tormenting me could feel it. I didn’t care if I hurt it. It toyed with me—hurting it once wouldn’t kill it.

—I’m sick of this! I’m tired! You come and talk, talk like I understand you, like you can take control of my life. I hate you, I hate you so much. You’re ruining my life! Are you even real? Answer me!—

I shouted, throwing a stone into the lagoon. The stillness that followed was unbearable, before the voice returned.

—Do you understand that I don’t know what you’re saying? Do you understand that you are the terror I breathe? Do you understand that you make me suffer? I’ve stopped eating, living, existing—because I can’t take this anymore! LEAVE ME ALONE!

—Soile, ferve me—

—Stop talking like I understand!— I snapped, losing my patience.

My legs suddenly gave out and I collapsed onto the grass. The robin circled me again. I wiped the dirt from my hands before muttering:

—First this, and then that kid… I don’t understand what…—

I froze, looking up as the bird kept fluttering.

—You both speak the same nonsense—

The field confirmed it as the lagoon shimmered brighter. I clutched my head, breathing heavily. This couldn’t be real. It was stupid. It was wrong. I could deny it like I always did. I could pretend this was just a strange lucid dream. I could say the child wasn’t real, that Anne’s letter wasn’t real.

I could pretend everything was fine.

Everything was fine.

Before the lagoon dimmed again, and I felt that pressure once more, like a thin thread tightening around my neck—like something hugging me. I trembled, and it stopped. It wasn’t even trying to speak anymore.

This isn’t real.

It isn’t real.

But I was in a field of sunflowers, with a robin watching me and a lagoon that seemed to toy with me. Everything looked so calm that it terrified me.

—If you know about Charles, why did you bring him here?—

This time, the robin answered, bringing with it a pendant—a pendant shaped like a moon and a sun. What did that have to do with anything? Then I remembered.

—He stole this from me… He’s the one who made those noises two years ago—

There was too much to connect.

I thought I was losing my mind years ago.

I had been asleep when I heard muffled sobs and groans, so close yet so distant. It couldn’t be the neighbors—they were both restaurants. So it had to be here. I went to sleep with that doubt, and never forgot it.

Then my sewing threads started disappearing. Then small coins. Then a piece of cloth I used to wrap bread. Then crumbs, fruit—every time I came back, things were missing or moved.

Then the voice.

The first time I heard it was when I was about to set rat traps. The torment of hearing those distant pleas was so unbearable that I didn’t do it. And then it never stopped. It talked, sang softly, sometimes laughed at me like a commentator narrating my life.

It was torture. Worse when I felt warmth touch me, embrace me.

The only time it felt good was once—when I was lying in bed, defeated, after writing one of the worst letters of my life. I tried to hold back tears—I was an adult. I shouldn’t be like this.

Then warmth settled over me, like a cat resting on my chest.

And knowing there was nothing there was terrifying.

This moment is terrifying.

And I can’t stop it.

And now that child made everything worse. I may have acted like I didn’t care about a rat-person living in my house, but I was in shock. Because I could no longer deny it.

He was proof.

Proof that something magical was happening.

He told me too much. That he’s a borrower—I don’t even know what that is. His existence is tearing my life apart.

But I couldn’t hurt him.

Despite being hostile and irritable, seeing his wide, frightened eyes hurt me. I couldn’t hurt a creature like that.

—I just… want to be left alone—

The lagoon dimmed. I assumed that meant no. I was too tired to argue. I just wanted to sleep, wake up, give Anne her cake, and say goodbye forever.

My beloved Anne… whose eyes might have looked like that lake.

—Rest, my child—

I flinched as the voice finally spoke in a language I understood. It still sounded like a lyre, but deeper now, like tightened strings.

The bird pecked at my ear. I jerked—and fell into the lagoon.

When I woke up, the sun brushed against my cheeks.

(...)

—Are we doing this right?—

—We must let go, as flowers release their dew, little bird. Let the river decide where it flows—

—He’s broken like an oak branch… I couldn’t, Flox…—

—Even crows know pain. I understand—

—I know… But even ladybugs bite when they’re afraid—

—And they are still beautiful creatures… and yet, they fear spiders without understanding them… But there are noble beings in your world. You’ll see—

—Your children were not wrong to give you the epithet of Goddess of Wisdom—

—Thank you, little brother—

[collenseward]

The moon and the star (Part 3)

(...)

I clenched the piece of paper in my hands, crumpling it into a ball as my eyes drifted toward the horizon. The flock had begun its journey, and I had the misfortune of being the first “fortunate” one on the list.

A knot formed in my throat. This wasn’t planned—none of this was! This was supposed to be just another quiet night where I took what I needed and left. But instead, I had to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The harvest festival was in two days, and I had been seen by the daughter of the highest authority doing something unheard of and horrible. This couldn’t be possible.

I couldn’t think for long, as I felt something touch my back. It startled me, and I turned around, a muffled scream escaping my throat.

—How…? Stop touching me!—

I shouted, and in response, he stepped back, rubbing the back of his neck before sighing.

—Kid, can you stop being so aggressive? You were staring at the horizon like you’d seen a ghost—

I clenched my teeth. The atmosphere wasn’t helping me stay calm—it kept me on edge, as if something could jump at me at any moment. I shifted my feet slightly, trying to ease the pain left by the earlier adrenaline.

—What did she… what did she tell me?—

Oh, I had heard it.

—She told you that you’re impure. Because that’s what you are—

I hissed through my teeth, and he only widened his eyes. I turned away again. I was going to have a lot of problems after this, and I didn’t know if Brisa could keep her mouth shut about it. Oh, this could go very wrong.

—Impure…?—

he asked. I didn’t turn around, just nodded and repeated the same line we had always been taught.

—Humans are impure beings that contaminate everything around them. Anything that is or seems to be created by a human, or has the appearance of one, falls into that—

I didn’t expect such a quick response.

—Then you’re impure too… aren’t you? You look like me. You look like us—

I froze in place. The air caught in my lungs before slipping out in a quiet breath. My words came out softer than I intended.

—No, we’re not… We’re nothing like you—

I hadn’t turned around, but the human seemed to end the conversation when I saw a plate beside me. I frowned before asking:

—What are you planning?—

He just shrugged, pushing the plate closer to my feet.

—You don’t want me to touch you, right? Well, I’m following your rule… We need to get to the kitchen table—

I looked at the object with suspicion, then at the man, suppressing a shout. I climbed onto the surface, planting my feet firmly. He smiled softly before moving forward, going down the stairs I had never been able to see. Down into the bakery kitchen, where I had run countless times, where I had cried countless times, where I had sent my prayers to the sky through the window.

Made of smoke and ash.

The light he turned on blinded me for a moment before I could adjust. I rubbed my eyes before stepping down onto the cold kitchen table. My feet trembled as they touched the surface.

—There… I’ll assume you already know this place—

he said. I just nodded. He was already grabbing an apron from a hook. I saw him look at a piece of paper in its pocket, give it a sad smile, then look at me.

Had I only just noticed these things? What else didn’t I know about him?

I could escape right now. There was a hole nearby that led to one of my passages, which would take me home. I could escape right now—I just had to take the step…

He turned to look at me, and instinctively, I tensed up, feeling my tail bristle behind me under his gaze. I swallowed.

—Okay… first things first, wash your hands—

Before I could respond, he added:

—And your feet and tail too…—

—Huh? Why?!—

I snapped quickly. Who did he think he was, giving me orders like that? I crossed my arms, glaring at him. He just shrugged.

—Your feet are dirty, and I noticed you use your tail like an extra hand… That wouldn’t be very hygienic—

I frowned. I wanted to argue, but to my frustration, he was right. I watched him move, and unconsciously stepped back until he turned on the sink, letting a thin stream of water run.

I shook my head as I brought my hands under the light stream. I cleaned my hands and my tail. My feet were more difficult, but I managed. I sighed before turning to him.

—Now what?—

Jason turned around with a bowl already filled with flour and opened a book beside me. He took out a spoon practically my size before speaking.

—Do you know how to cook, kid?—

I had already begrudgingly accepted the nickname. I nodded. Honestly, I did know how to cook—at least the food was edible, and I had made some bread in a stone oven the last time I stepped into the village.

He nodded before taking a small jar from the corner. With his other hand, he pointed at the open book.

—Read the ingredients, please. The faster we finish, the faster you’ll leave—

Yeah, I get that very clearly.

—Uh… two eggs, 250 ml of milk… one spoon of… baking soda? What is that supposed to be?—

I had no idea what most of these things were, and it was already hard enough moving from one place to another just to read. The man shook his head.

—I know what that is. Don’t ask, just keep reading, please—

I clenched my teeth and continued reading.

(...)

It feels like years have passed.

Do you know how horrible it is to spend more than three hours with a human? It was already dawn, and I could see him, his body drowsy and his eyes tired. When he finally put the last cake into the oven, he looked at me before placing the same plate at my feet.

I was exhausted. I had never been this tired before, as if I had been running for days. My legs trembled as I climbed onto the cold surface—but if I could, I would fall asleep right now.

We went back up until he left me on the counter of his apartment again. We were next to my crystal sword, so I grabbed it.

—You can go…—

he said, catching my attention. He rubbed his eyes as he handed me a leaf.

A laurel.

—I think it’s important—

I took it in my hands, nodding before running off with my bag under my arm and my sword in my hands.

But I didn’t disappear.

Not after hearing that cry—that muffled scream.

The human had always been… peculiar.

And ever since I arrived at this house, he talked at night. He begged something—or someone. He begged to be left alone, to be freed. I never understood that.

—Why do you torment me like this?—

I heard a voice as I stepped out of my hole in the wall. It came from his room.

—I don’t even know how you ended up here, I just…—

He fell silent before I heard him sob again.

—I’m begging you, I don’t understand you… Be quiet, please, just be quiet—

I heard him say before I moved silently across the table. I could see through the crack of his door from afar—he was standing, looking to one side.

—When will I be able to see you? When will you…?—

I couldn’t finish listening. A light blinded me instantly—a strong, sickening light. I tripped over my tail and fell backward.

It was a free fall forward. My scream was muffled by a rough sensation. I looked up.

I couldn’t see anything.

Where am I?