She definitely called out to me.
A breeze carrying the bitter scent of wild grass swept through the air. Though a thick barrier of foliage stood between them, the boy could sense her presence. The rustling of leaves was the only sound in the vast, silent plain, confirming that they were the only living beings around. It was a strange, intense experience.
The girl’s voice lacked any hint of suspicion, as if she were simply speaking to another friend. Despite having retched in disgust at his grotesque appearance, why had she tried to stop him from leaving? She must have been frightened and repulsed.
His fingers trembled with a mix of doubt and tension, yet he couldn’t bring himself to turn away and run. The deep pain in her voice had rooted him to the spot. He was worried. Was she in great pain? How badly was she hurt? As he hesitated, her voice passed through the foliage again.
