Something stirs me from sleep — a faint sound, soft and close. Is that… a cat? licking me, maybe?
I open my eyes slowly. My body feels heavy, but I manage to sit up. The little creature walks toward the river. What's it looking for?
"Hm?" I mutter, tilting my head.
The cat crouches low, its tail swaying behind. Is it hunting?
"Eh?" I whisper.
Fish! It leaps fast into the water, disappearing for a second. Then—its head comes up again, holding a fish between its teeth.
It climbs out, shakes the water off, and sits by the tree, eating in peace.
My hand moves on its own. "May I—"
—GRRRR.
The growl stops me cold. Its eyes glare sharp like flame. Then it turns away, ignoring me.
I can't help but smile a little. What a strange creature… but smart.
That sparks an idea. I pick up a fallen branch, grab my knife, and sharpen it until it forms a spear. Not perfect, but it's mine.
Now—time to hunt.
The water glows faintly under the moon. I step closer, my feet half-soaked. The cold runs through me, yet I steady my hands and hold the spear tight.
Patience. I must wait.
Minutes pass. The river moves slow. The cat comes again, watching me this time. Done with its meal already?
I turn my gaze back. No… not this time. I'll get one myself.
—SPLASH!
It catches another fish. Unbelievable.
My stomach growls.
—PRUUTT.
"Ouch…" I sigh.
I grip the spear harder, my arms shaking. Just once. Just one catch…
The air turns still, and the sound of the stream feels almost alive.
I focus. My eyes follow the ripples—then suddenly, something shifts inside me. The river ahead changes; I can see the fish even beyond the bend.
What's happening to me?
They come closer.
Closer still—
Hold.
Now—
THWACK!