“I don’t think instincts work in places you’ve never been.”
Cletus turned up his nose in triumph, “See, Argus thinks a map is a good idea!”
“That’s not what I said-”
Rufus’ frustrated pout dropped, but after just a moment it returned as an equally triumphant smirk, nose held even higher.
“Of course it’s a good idea, I did suggest it.”
Cletus recoiled, “You wh-? No you didn’t! I di-”
His brother was no longer in front of him, now halfway out the door.
“And since it’s my idea, I’m gonna find it first!”
The two barreled down the narrow path from their home, Argus taking the time to close the door behind them before jogging to catch up. Kuvaq was in the same state it always was: warm, stinky, and lively for an early morning, with people heading to work or wherever else they spent time.
In the town centre Rufus came to a halt, looking around, while Cletus overshot him and stumbled to stop himself.
“Now if I were a map, where would I be…”
They each put a hand on their chin, the same thoughtful gesture their Dad often performed, while scanning the surrounding buildings. Asking Gizmo was out of the question, not needing to draw suspicion to themselves, but who else would have such knowledge?
“I thought you guys were under house arrest.”
Rufus spun, looking for who spoke, before turning his gaze downward.
“Ah! Wenzel, I almost stepped on you!”
Argus frowned, “We haven’t been arrested, Gizmo says we're too young for that.”
“Why am I not surprised he’s even had that conversation with you? Anyway, what are you up to?”
“We’re looking for a map!” Rufus exclaimed.
Cletus pushed his brother aside, “Of here and around. We just want to know where places are. Can we not expand our knowledge of the world without being questioned?”
“Riiiight.” Wenzel looked at each of them, clearly considering his choices, before he turned and pointed to the town hall. “There's a board of information stuff in the hall-”
“Race ya!” Rufus pushed past, sprinting towards the building, his brothers and small friend soon following behind. Just inside the entrance, by the waiting chairs was the aforementioned board, littered with notices of mine work, lost pets, training and-
Two folded pieces of paper hung below the scrawled word ‘MAP’.
“They both are, so just grab one.”
Which do they choose?
Voting ended onMar 9, 2023