—SPLAAASH!
I drive the spear into the river, heart pounding. Did I strike true? The water lashes back, cold and wild against my face. Please… please—ah! Got it!
I lift the catch high, grinning wide. "Ha! Look, cat—"
The beast lies curled nearby, deep in slumber. Two fish, and it sleeps like a lord. I huff, half amused, half jealous.
"Hmmm…"
Gathering fallen branches, I build a small pile. Two rough stones, struck together—again and again—till sparks leap forth and fire awakens. Its warmth drives off the night's chill.
I pierce the fish upon the sharpened stick, roast it above the flame. The scent—smoke and charred flesh—stirs the beast within my belly.
One fish… barely enough. Yet I have no strength left to hunt again. My stomach protests, but I whisper, "Endure a little longer. Tomorrow, I'll sell the pendant."
The fire dances, its light twining with the moon's pale grace. My eyelids grow heavy. Sleep comes gentle.
---
Morning strikes my face. "Ukhh… too bright." I shield my eyes, then glance aside—empty ground. The cat is gone.
A sigh escapes me. No growling stomach this time. I'll catch fish first, at least two.
Taking last night's spear, I wade into the shallows. The chill bites, but I ignore it. I must catch them.
Do I dare call that strange sight again—the way the world bent, showing me what lies beyond? It frightens me… yet tempts me too.
I close my eyes, stilling my breath. Please… just two fish.
But—
"Hmmm?" Birds sing. The wind hums soft. Why does the world not fall silent, as before?
Again, I try. Eyes shut tight, heart calm, waiting for the stillness to swallow all sound. Yet the songs persist—the rustle, the whispers of leaves, the life around me.
Why… will it not fall silent?