The Fire That Heals

by Sega_miku

Summary:

Priya has been scarred by the fire. Her village burned down as a child, and she has been left with emotional baggage and burns all over her body and face. Feeling no hope she wonders into the woods to end it. Although she has the least expected outcome.

 

(This is one of my first works, and my first works to published on the internet. Please be nice! Criticism is welcome!)

Notes:

I am very scared posting this ngl! I have terrible spelling and this stayed in drafts for over a year now. Have fun! I also don't know how to tag so help is appreciated!

Chapter 1

Chapter One

The high cry of cicadas surrounds me as I lie in the fragrant grass, the sweet scent lulling me to sleep. However, I need to take this step. The trees covered my face in the shade. I put my orange hair up into a small ponytail. Sitting up, the world spins from the sudden movement, but I need to go. I scan my surroundings and try not to trip on the branches and roots. I gaze back toward my hometown through the narrow trees. I can’t look back. The high trees shade my walk, but every so often a beam of light breaks through and blinds me. The smell of moss and nearby water fill my senses. My light bag crinkles against my back. My knees curse at my every movement; while trekking, I find a stream. It doesn’t seem to stop anywhere, so I decide to go through it. Stepping down onto the riverbank. Moving forward, I try to maneuver my way through the stream. The strong current pushes me to the side. The stream is small, but it has so much life. The small fish and tadpoles move from my feet. I curse at myself for not wearing better clothes, I put myself out of the creek. Lifting myself out of the bank was a struggle; the feeling of water in my socks left me uncomfortable. My leather shoes rub on my ankle and chafe. After a minute of uncomfortable walking, I found a creek with a mossy bank along my walk. I sit down and try to soothe my aching bones and wet socks; I shouldn’t be so sore. I groan as I check my shoes, blisters covering my ankles. My feet are swollen, and I need a break. The moss feels like a carpet and could put me to sleep anytime soon. I miss my carpet so much that I could lie here forever. I set my bag next to me and pulled out something to munch on. I’m not entirely hungry, but I should eat something because I’m not stopping soon. I bite a piece of my cheese and marvel at my surroundings. The cheese has a calming and muted flavor; I bought it at work. Nothing changed in my surroundings from an hour ago, and yet it's so surreal and comforting. The distant sounds of birds and frogs turn into a soothing symphony, and I cannot resist the temptation to just let go.

 

****************************

 

Lilith V never took me seriously. She called me a curse of the fire, maybe she was right.

“Hey! Freak,” Lilith shouted across the courtyard at the school.

She continued as I sat motionless on the bench. It hurt me deeply, and I couldn’t even express it on my face anymore. Not with what I’ve been through before. That fire ruined everything; My face is still scarred from the flames. I rub the grooves in my face to soothe the ache; the skin wrinkles and folds on my face. It makes me look older and makes me feel old. After Lilith’s short spurt, she leaves, and I’m left with my thoughts for a while. I stared at the solemn trees in the manicured lawn of the courtyard. I ponder my life after school, what will I do, what will I be? Class is starting soon. I feel tired, yet when I get to class, I forget which one is next. I take a step up, and the world spins. I cannot see past the dark spots in my eyes.

“Dammit”

 

***************************

 

I wake with a dry mouth and a sore body from the hours of walking. I’m glad I rested near a creek; I approached the creek, and as I cupped the water with my hands, I noticed a reddish-brown turtle on a rock across the water. Their shell was covered in spots and patterns. Living in a popular village, I haven't seen many turtles in my life.

“Hey, that water isn’t safe!” A squeal-ish yell shocks me, and I drop the water back into the fast-moving creek.

I probe around for the person, finding only me and the turtle. I wonder, am I still asleep? I pinched myself, only to be severely shocked when the turtle was two inches away from my feet.

Again, they speak, “God, you humans are so dramatic.”

Awestruck, I cannot find the words.

“Hey? Hello? Does it speak?” They coaxed me and started climbing up my leg, all while asking very personal questions. “Where do you live?” “And most importantly, your face!” they peppered, “Your face must feel weird with all of the burn mar-”

I had enough of that one. With the turtle inches away from my face, I shoved the turtle down with one big stretch. I stood up and picked up my backpack. I rattled along with the turtle following slowly behind. I moved to get away. Their questions still haunted me. It was too much, that's what I ran away from in the first place. I move downstream, the turtle’s voice slowly fading. With all the cicadas and the frog-song left, I could think. Walking hurts, and I can’t walk much farther. I continued in confusion and hurt. My brain scattered into thoughts, and I started with the first one.

“A talking turtle?” I mutter to myself in confusion.

Maybe it was a sick prank? Played by the younger boys who snuck off from the nearby farms? Possibly? Next one, how would they do that and why? I need to stop soon. My ankles hurt, and I could only rest at this point. In my discomfort, I realized I had seen this creek before… I stared, and it was the turtle, lying in the imprint in the moss I left after my sleep.

The turtle muttered, “I’m sorry, we must have gotten off on the wrong foot.”

They seemed so apologetic. Should I forgive him? “Let's start this again.” “Hi, I’m Snapper.” A moment of silence followed; this was real. I can try to accept this. I cleared my throat. And spoke. “Priya,” “Priya Malcolm”

Notes:

Hey I so realized the text look absolutely terrible to read here! I’m fixing that right now!

Chapter 2: Chapter 2

Summary:

OKAY IM POSTING!!!
*EDIT*
HELLO 18 PEOPLE!!! WOAHHH I love you all!

Snapper was shocked, as well. I hadn’t spoken in a while, so my voice was grainy and quiet. Snapper fixed his shocked expression and calmed down. We sat in silence for a while, not speaking. The silence was too loud, with the nearby water, calls of late-night birds and calls of animals I don’t even know. It had gotten late, and the unknown of the darkness was almost as frightening as fire. I got up to light a lamp for some light. I didn't want anything to do with fire, but I would need it to see at least a foot in front of me. So, I plucked a match out of my bag and struck it. I watched the match briefly and set the lamp out, and a warm light bathed over me and my new companion. I watch the lamp with bated breath watching it slowly rise and into a small flame. I can’t help but look at the fire and watch it carefully. I pull my blanket out Aswell. Covering my cold body. After another painful minute of silence, of course, Snapper had to say something.

“So .... Why are you in the middle of Wild-Country, people are known to die out here, you know,” Snapper quipped.

I had no words; I didn’t think I had the words to explain my thoughts.

I cleared my throat, “What do you think?”

Snapper quieted histhoughts, tinkering away on how to change my mind. I look toward my light bag only carrying some food and a rope.

Snapper broke the silence, “I can help you; I know these woods like the back of my feet.” “I can get you back home.”

I sighed and studied Snapper, whose face was full of emotion that I didn’t think a turtle could make.

“No, I made my choice, and I’m sticking with it,” I said.

I wasn’t going to budge on this. I wanted to disappear into the woods to never be seen again; I wasn't going back. Snapper's thinking machine is working again. I looked up to admire it, but now the world seems more alive. Without the blaring light of summer, fireflies mingle around trees. The cicadas are still screaming their songs in the background of the crickets. The night was illuminated by the small lamp. I shimmy away from the lamp as to not stay to close

“I’m going with you,” Snapper reasoned.

“No, you're not,” I muttered.

Snapper sat thinking of what to say, then sighed and spoke in a solemn voice.

“You know I was cursed in these woods,” grumbled Snapper.

I glanced at my unwanted companion as he stared at his feet.

“I didn’t think the legend was true; I wanted to prove my friends wrong.” “That I could get to the end of the woods and come back in less than a week.” “That was 20 years ago.”

I couldn’t help but feel bad for this sad turtle. Snapper showed his vulnerability, and I was going to leave them all alone again.

“I was cursed to forget my name and my parents,” “If I remember my name and theirs, I will be released of this curse” Snapper spouted.

I lay in the soft moss sleepy and dazed by the rhythmic sounds of the creek nearby. Thinking hard on what I should do. Should I help him? Or should I do what I came here to do?

I sighed and promised, “I will find who cursed you, then I’ll be on my way.”

Snapper beamed at me, and him climbed up my leg, making small footprints on my leggings.

“Let’s go then!” bubbled Snapper. “Let’s go now!” H sprang. “The sun is about to rise!”

After I calmed Snapper down, I put my light crinkly bag on my back and picked Snapper up with minor excitement from him. Then I put Snapper on my left shoulder and departed this creek. The morning sun is just now rising to greet us.

***************************

We start moving with Snapper being my voluble guide and compass. Snapper chatters ever long, and it flows like a waterfall mind dump. After an uneventful night, I don’t expect us to go far, but after a couple of minutes, the scenery gradually shifts into a majestic forest full of creatures. Shadows cover the spiritually alive forest, and we cannot see very far ahead of us. The dense trees form a path that winds and twists. We take many forms on the road. It has gotten very dark around us, and all we see is two feet in front of us. When Snapper's memory eventually fails him, we take a break and snack on the cheese I still have in my bag. I eat cautiously, watching every little squirm any shadow makes; I look at one spot for too long, and it looks like it's moving and shifting. Snapper looks where I’ve been staring.

“You’re seeing that, right?” Snapper squeaked.

I looked at him with a scared expression that shook both of us to get up and relocate quickly. Even more scared than before, we move in the general direction that Snapper suggested. Watching all the shadows and watching our steps to make sure I don’t fall with Snapper on my shoulder. Then Snapper breaks the focused silence with a question as they do.

“What’s the village like now?” Snapper questioned

amidst the flurry of questions attacked at me. I thought for a moment, I didn’t want to think about what happened, but Snapper beckoned me to come.

“It’s strange,” I start, “It’s a lot more modern than what I grew up with,” I sneer.

Snapper seems very intrigued by every word. “Well, unfortunately, when I was five, the village burned down,” I muttered.

Snapper was silent, which is understandable, as it was both of our homes.

“Anyways,” I cleared my throat. “They got a new tavern, and many more different jobs-“

“WAIT!” Snapper shrieked. The sudden yell made me jump and almost made Snapper fall.

“Hey!” I scream at Snapper. I felt bad, but it was needed.

“Sorry,” Snapper apologized timidly. “But we’re here.”

We gaze toward a small hovel covered in massive vines and trees. The door was open, and the inside seemed wrecked. I glanced at Snapper, who seemed just as scared as I was. I groan as I start to walk toward the open door, Snapper shaking on my warm shoulder. As I step through the door, I set my bag on the floor. Snapper is now in his hell, guiding me through the mess of a home. I heeded my steps, making sure I didn’t trip over the clumps of vines. Snapper peaks to points to my left, and all I see is a small child’s room. It’s the most well-kept out of all the rooms, but its toys are put all over the room in the process of being played with, but they're not. I sighed heavily; it saddened me. I can’t remember my childhood; all memories point back to the terrible night. I still regret everything. I snapped back to reality when she noticed a certain shadow, and it cried playful cheers. I stepped back, and Snapper looked out of his shell. The cheers stop, and Snapper is fully out of his shell; the room is filled with sudden silence. A small shadow peers out of the crib, its mouth smiling. The shadow shows a young girl with pigtails; Her huge, unnatural smile slowly fades into a frown as she spots Snapper. It becomes increasingly quiet. The Snapper on my shoulder shakes violently, and it digs into my collarbone. The shadowed girl steps toward us, and the next thing I see is black.

***************************

I woke in a field next to the woods, my bag next to me, and… a body?

Chapter 3

Notes:

Well hello everyone! please enjoy! I’ve been working really hard on all of the chapters and so many more are coming!

I sit up, embarrassed not only for the person but also for me. I pull a blanket in my bag and pull it over the random naked person….

“Snapper?!” I shouted

Snapper starts to stir awake as I hand him a towel. He graciously accepts my offering. He has the bluest eyes I have ever seen, and curly, blonde hair. He has the physic of a child. glance around to see farmers working tirelessly in this field. Never in my twenty years of living would I ever experience this again. My house is a 5-minute walk, but it's surrounded by other people and through the town square. I groan as I scan everyone in the field and go through my options again. Walk through the town with a naked man-turtle or go back into the woods and wait till night. Snapper comes to his senses and stands with the towel wrapped around his body. I make a silent scream of frustration. I lay back down, the grain on my back tickling any skin on my body. I scream into my hands and make another scream. Then sit up one more time, but with short confidence. I stand up and get Snapper, who’s crying, but I don’t care right now. I get him to follow me; we move past glares and many side eyes. I wish I could bury myself. We get to the village entrance; a stone overcast with guards on each side. The guards are curious,

“He got stuck in the mud and his clothes were ruined,” I spoke to counter their possible accusations.

We walk past and into the town square, and many people overhearing the conversation look away from the barefoot person, and one sheet of fabric away from the “exposed” person. I move faster, walking past the vendors yelling and bartering. The smooth pavement is nicer than the dirt road that led me here. Snapper trails along behind, slower than he was as a turtle. I pulled his arm to beckon him forward. The crowd lessened as we got out of the market and more into the parks. The cobblestone lessens into dirt and scattered stone. I realize it may be comfortable for Snapper's bare feet, so I move us onto more finished roads. We arrive at my house before noon; I set my bag down and collapse on the floor. Snapper looks at me with severe shock; his expressions are more advanced than when he were a turtle. He tried to pick me up, but the weight of everything left my body in a trance. I cannot feel anything, and the feel of the carpet, real carpet, is so relaxing. I missed my carpet.

***************************

A school trip, one I didn’t want to go to. Two days in the woods with my class. Fire and food. Fire, I hate fire. With “gentle persuasion” from my mom I went. A heavy bag weighed me down more than my mood; I really want to leave. A giant fire was planned for the end of the first night. I walk in the group of students to a nearby campsite. As the people stacked wood and covered one in gas. It was lit and tossed into the stack. When suddenly, a bright flash illuminated the stack. Then, WHOOSH! Lilith towers over me. Her auburn curly hair lights with the uncontrollable fire next to us. My orange bangs cover my eyes. The fire next to us, which we lit in the woods, burned larger and brighter. Lilith, even though every day she yelled at me for my face. We both were scared, and we both were affected by the fire as kids. Together, huddled until the fire burned out. Guards found us hours later, with dark ash on our faces, and our tears showing streaks on our faces. We continued the same dynamic as before after this moment, but our hearts were completely dysfunctional in the face of fire. Maybe that's why she hated me. Why she mocked me every day? She hated the reminder of the fire on my face. Only at that moment did she forget everything and become scared. Weeks later, I sat in the courtyard as usual and did homework while my peers played. We were in middle school anyway. It was a couple of days after the trip disaster, and Lilith had been civil. Lilith came up to me,

Lilith spluttered, “Hey, um…” “I don’t know how to say this, but I’m sorry,” Lilith confessed

I sat there speechless. I knew she had been regretting it, but I didn’t believe she would apologize. I guess my face gave it away, and she walked away. I wanted to say something, anything to console her, but I just couldn’t.

***************************

I woke up on the couch, and Snapper couldn’t lift me far. My shoes are off, and a blanket is wrapped around me. I hear noise from the kitchen, and I sit up to see that it's late morning.

“Crap...”

I gather all of my stuff and head upstairs. Snapper heard but stuck to whatever he were doing. I rushed to get some decent clothes on and get my hair okay for my job. I can’t find my work clothes, however. After I struggled to get shoes on with blistered feet and swollen ankles. As I run to the door,

Snapper remarks, “It's a rest day!”

I look at him with crazy eyes, and I go back to the couch. I plop down on the sofa and feel myself slipping again.

Snapper yells from my kitchen, “Why don’t you have any eggs or milk?”

“I wasn't planning on living, remember?” I rebutted

“Oh,” Snapper apologized.

I sit back down and gather my thoughts. I realize that Snapper might still be in the nude, and as I go to grab him some clothes. I looked over at Snapper, who had on my work clothes…

“Hey!” I lashed.

He looked down with saddened eyes, dammit. I sighed

“You can have them for now,” I say with discontent.

Snapper beams continued making lunch. I walk into my kitchen. Snapper found two potatoes and a carrot. He chopped both the potatoes and carrots and fried them. I smelled it, and it was amazing. The light steam rose from the freshly fried food, and I resisted the urge to bite into the food as it was. Snapper had another trick up his sleeve, and I watched as he doused it in ketchup. I sat there dumbfounded; the entire plate was covered in ketchup at this point. He still went on covering every inch of this plate in ketchup. The bottle sputtered and sighed, yet he smacked it and continued. I looked at Snapper with a completely confused look that I could physically muster. They got across, and Snapper looked disappointed again. I groan as I prepare to bite into this potato catastrophe. I groan, but this time to myself; I bit into it, and it was terrible. I cannot tell him that. I force a smile on my face, and he takes it! Snapper digs in while I force some nibbles. I think about my future with Snapper. Maybe today I could get him clothes and then buy some groceries. I snapped back to reality. A day ago, I was going to the forest with no plan other than to wander there until my inevitable death. Snapper saved me, and I saved him. I cover my eyes from the sudden flash flood. I stand to get ready for the afternoon, I quickly take a shower and put on new clothes. I step downstairs to Snapper sitting on my couch, still in my work clothes. Snapper seems so out of character; he was too quiet.

“Your human now...” “So, what's your name?” I question

“Cleo Middleton,” he mumbles

“Do you like that name?” I ponder

“Not really,” he admitted “I’ve been Snapper for over twenty years now, and it stuck with me I guess,”

I sat down next to him at the table; he is looking at his hands. They are smooth as a young child's. He looked me in the eyes,

“Do you mind if I still- If I- If I still go by” He stuttered out

"I don't care what your name is” I spoke “So, do you want some new clothes?” I prompted

Snapper lit up, He stood up, and sauntered next to the door. I closed and locked the door as he stood fully immersing himself in this moment; we both walked to a wardrobe place browsing for items for him to wear. The older woman at the counter greeted us, and we got to work. The earthy smell of the shop smelled of the woods. Snapper picked out a dress and a couple of shorts. I grabbed some leather boots to spare his feet. We left for the market, which was almost closing for the night before the drunkards came. I picked out some fish, potatoes, carrots, eggs, milk, and some bread. We spent about 7,000 grains on groceries and clothes. We picked up the bags and left for home. The street-lamps shone brightly; I wonder if he got to see the inventions of lights, after all, it was 20 years ago. I would have been one, he would have been five. We strode toward the house, I unlocked the door, and stepped in. By now, it was after dinner time. However, Snapper decided to make dinner. Snapper started, chopped up the carrots, potatoes, and some fish. I still had some spices, so Snapper threw them in. After some rummaging, he found some garlic, and he roasted it. Snapper threw all of it into a pot with some water and the spices.

“Bone Appetit!!!” Snapper screamed at the top of his lungs.

My neighbors were sleeping, but not anymore. What was in front of me was surprising: no ketchup, just good food. I also didn’t buy any ketchup. The steam makes it much more appetizing. The smell makes my saliva rise, and make my stomach growl I go for the fish first, it’s okay. I tried the broth to no avail; it’s not very good. I end up spilling some on the table by accident. Other than that, I enjoyed it for the most part. I eat more of the solids and sip little bits of the broth. Snapper seems quieter than usual again.

“Are you okay, Snapper?” I queried

Snapper sighed, letting go of an imaginary weight. “It feels so strange,” he says. “I’ve been in that forest for twenty years now!” “In a way, I still feel I’m in there.” Snapper spluttered

I listen intently while biting a piece of fish. And trying not to spill the juices.

“It’s so strange,” Snapper faltered. “I've been on that rock, watching people go by, not saying anything.” “You were” “different,” Snapper confessed

I sat there, no longer eating my fish, wondering what he meant.

“I knew I had to stop someone,” Snapper blurted

“Are you getting sentimental?” I teased.

Snapper stared at the bowl and sighed; he started to eat, Snapper’s face lighting up with every bite. We ate in silence, our spoons clinking with each bite. He’s too quiet, so I look at Snapper again. Snapper finished hissoup. I am a slow eater, yet Snapper stayed with me. After a couple more minutes, I got full.

"Do you remember anything about that day?” Snapper says staring at his bowl uneasily.

“Like in the forest or?” I speak before Snapper cuts me off

“When we were put back into the field, along with my name, I heard something else.” Snapper takes a breath and releases,

“My presence chills air, I’m the start of the tale, Discovered by morning, pale and frail. Around me they gather, searching for why— Who am I, lying still as time passes by?”

I sat there for a for a second, I didn’t understand fully.

“That's strange” I pondered at the empty plate.

“That's not all either,

“Candles unlit on a cake never made, Small footprints vanish in dust and in shade. To find my lost slumber, you must peer through the pain Where am I hidden, unseen and in vain?”

My spoon clinks against the bowl, as I debate with my mind. Snapper stands and puts his bowl into the sink. He stands in the doorway of the kitchen and living room,

“Priya? Do you have any books I can read?”

“Plenty, there on the shelf upstairs”

***************************

I stood up and got a bed ready for Snapper, and washed the dishes, I peeked back every now and again. When I got back to the couch, I found him asleep. Snapper’s blonde curls covering his yes. I nudged him awake to make himtake a shower and put on some new clothes. I needed my work clothes anyway, by the time he finished, I was ready for bed and was reading a book in bed. My belly warm with soup, and the cool Fanfair air against my neck. Snapper knocked on the door and spoke,

“Good night, Priya.”

“Good night, Snapper.”

Chapter 4

I woke before dawn, the darkness urging me to get back to sleep. I went to get my work clothes off the hanger; Snapper, after his shower, washed my work clothes, so I could have my work clothes for today. I walked past the couch and checked on him. Snapper was fast asleep, snoring, so I decided to make some breakfast and leave a note before I left. I started with breakfast, and we bought some eggs at the market. I got a mug, it's a light brown with green stripes horizontally, cracked open the eggs, and mixed them as quietly as I could. I poured the mixed eggs on my stove and got some firewood from the back. I put it under the stove and got a match from my bag that I still haven’t unpacked. As the stove warmed up, I wrote Snapper a note. 

“Good morning, Snapper, I have work this morning and until late afternoon. I have given you 500 grains, enough to buy some lunch if you want. There is a great place near Chozon Alley, and they make great breaded chicken. I work at the artisan goods place on Houillac Road. If you need anything.” 

I set down the gold grain on the counter and looked at the stove. The stove’s heat emanates throughout the room and the fire burns. I cannot look at it for too long or get too close. I put too much in. I step away from the stove. I feel such a wave of stress that I cannot bear. I feel so useless; it has such a grip on me, I can’t even cook. I sit on the living room floor, a wall away from the stove, the sun shining in its new glow. A flash arises; a hellish glow rises in my mind. The ground stained by the rage of fire. I touch my face the rough skin only brings more memories of that day. I stifle a sob; I need to make food, but I cannot get close to the flame. I’m unable to do anything, but I try. I assemble my courage that has been shattered. I carve a piece of bread off a loaf and leave for work. While I walk, one thing I choose not to notice is the number of people who look at me with pity. I have my face permanently scarred from the fire, and it's easy to notice.  My scars move from my neck to my face and a small portion of my orange hair. As a kid, it bothered me, but I eventually got used to it. People would stop me and tell me their condolences. I didn’t lose anything in the fire besides my home. My hands shake as I close the door, and I take a deep breath as I step out of my front yard. I try to focus on not tripping on the cobblestone roads, so I don’t notice as much. I know the roads well, so I stare at the cobble flooring as to not make eye contact.  As I approach my work, I breathe and press down my apron. I stay there for a second just sucking in the smells of the village; its fragrance smells of honey, tea, and many flowers. To calm myself I think of anything, other than the fire. I grab the handle and twist inhaling once more to soothe my nerves. Then I step into the shop, the shop isn’t open yet, everyone is talking or cleaning from last night, some people work on the rest, they don’t believe in the gods. I don’t either, but I still take the day off. Once I closed the door with a noisy clank, I felt eyes on me. I was worried that people would remember or even gossip about my last shift. I had left earlier last week in a frenzy; I wasn’t feeling well. The shop owner, Ionia, walks up to me.

“Hello, dear!” She bubbled

She is a stout woman with light blonde hair in a bob. She has some of her hair back in a small ponytail.  She has a large build, due to her making cheeses all day. She holds me close and squeezes me with her large arms,

“Are you feeling better?” She hinted

“Yeah, I’m better,” I faltered looking toward the ground as to not cry.

She could tell that I wasn’t sure and gave me a comforting smile and moved on. I corrected my face, rubbed my left arm, and moved on as well. I wrote my name on the logbook and the time I arrived and walked to the counter as Ionia opened the door to the shop. It was a little before sunrise and the light shone lightly in the shop illuminating the cheeses and showing all the airborne dust. It takes a minute for people to walk in and today was no different. I had our first customer of the day 30 minutes after full sunrise, and they were not happy. The stressed stranger had dough on their apron and hair tied back into a loose bun with hair falling out, only a hair net kept her together.

“Do y'all have cheese?” The stranger huffed

I look toward the shelf of massive cheese wheels and look back at the stranger.

“Of course!” I hummed, trying to stay calm at the question trying not to seem snarky. They were probably just tired.

The stranger grumbled and eventually picked out a couple of slices of freshly made asiago. I watched them trot away, and I groaned. The first customer is fantastic, so it's a great start to the workday. My shift is until luncheon, so it's going to be a little bit till then. Then after lunch, I work for two more hours. While pondering my shift, another person walks in. They are wearing a mailperson's uniform,

“Does...” They look at a piece of paper, “Priya Malcom work here?”

“That’s me,” I say in a customer-seller's voice.

They hand me an envelope and leave. Once they leave, I look at the letter, it's from Lilith V.? No one was here, and all the other staff were working in the back making cheeses. She gathered her courage, opened the envelope, and read.

“Dear Priya, our alumni have invited you to a party for our year. They didn’t have your address, so I sent it myself, and I hope you come. It’s the 18th of Fanfair.”

I gulped. I haven’t seen her in years; I dropped out of school in my final year due to the bullies. She was civil the last time she saw her; she waved and said hello. 

She wanted me to come I sigh,

“I didn’t even graduate?”

I plop my head on the counter. I can’t even imagine what she looks like now. 

“Wait,” I thought aloud, “How did she get my address for my work?” 

I blush at the counter, and then I hear the door open. I sit up way too fast, and the black spots are back. I say without seeing the person.

“Welcome!”

I see Snapper wearing his lunch on his shirt. His shirt is covered in light soup stains, and Snapper’s face is covered in a white-ish soup and breadcrumbs. Snapper must still eat like a five-year-old. I look at him with a confused expression I can muster. Snapper looked sad when he walked in. I didn’t notice it at first, but his eyes seemed so disappointed. I fix my expression.

“Hey, are you okay?” I asked

Snapper looked even more disappointed, but more with itself. I sigh and slide over my handkerchief. Snapper takes it and cleans himself up. 

“So, I see you found the spot I recommended,” I noted

“Mhm,” Snapper quietly agreed

I look at him with another confused look. Snapper has never been this quiet before. He always talked in some way or another; never have I seen him so hushed. I sigh and look him in his eyes and try to fix my face again to be more comforting. It doesn’t work, and Snapper starts heavily sobbing. 

“Oh dear…” I cannot think of what else to say. 

“I lost the money,” Snapper manages between sobs.

I go up toward Snapper, leaving my counter, and we hug. I walk toward the back,

“Hey, Ionia?” I pop in, “There is nobody, and I didn’t eat any lunch or breakfast. May I       take my break?”

Ionia looks up from the cheese vat, sweaty and proud. She looks back at Snapper sobbing like a small toddler and gives me a thumb-up. I look back at Snapper and motion in the direction of the door. He wiped his wet eyes with the handkerchief. He stepped out and sat on a bench nearby.  After Snapper had calm down enough to breathe freely.

“So do you want to talk about it?” I poke.

Snapper took a very deep breath and lamented, “I forgot the money at the counter, and they thought it was a tip!”

I stifle a laugh, but it's very hard. “So, how much was the meal?” 

“250 grain,” Snapper sniffled. 

“You accidentally gave them 250 grains as a tip? I repeat in a calm tone.

“Yeah, please don’t be mad,” Snapper said, looking at his feet.

I look at him with a calm face; I didn’t need to force. 

“It's alright, I make 2065 grains a day, so you don’t need to worry!” 

Snapper looks at me with wild eyes. 

“Pryia...” Snapper voice faltered

“Yes?”

“You make 2065 grains?” He whispers

“I do,” I repeat

Snapper put his head down in contemplation.  

“You could buy a boat with the money you made today!” Snapper screeched 

I was taken aback; I didn’t even realize I made that much money. I work every day and buy only the necessities. I don’t have any fun.

“I haven’t thought about that…” I quietly admit

Snapper looks at the ground, the thinking machine is back, and then suddenly.

“We should do something!” He bursts

I’m glad to see him in a good mood again, although in the woods I would have said anything but that; however, hearing Snapper for hours on end is not enjoyable. However, I know his struggles, and I’ve been with him for four days now. I want to get to know him, the thought frightens me, getting to know someone you met in the woods a couple of days ago, but everyone was once a stranger. I have only known Ionia for three years now after I dropped out, but I consider myself one of her friends. After some thought, Snapper looked at me with a smile and waited patiently for my response. 

I sigh, “Let’s start after the 18th of FanFair.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

The customer asking Priya if she has cheese was based off of a person asking me “a lifeguard” if I knew how to swim… that was a long shift

Chapter 5

Notes:

A bit of TW here ref to past ($H) but pretty happy chap especially for what’s to come 😋anyways have fun peeps!

Snapper beams, his eyes full of excitement. 

“You mean like this 18th of Fanfair?” Snapper repeats

“Yes, the one in two days,” I assured

One thing I never expected out of my life is to travel with a person who once was a turtle; it's strange, yet it brings new beginnings. The world seems lively; it has a new glow and purpose. I stood up and looked around; everything had a new significance. Kids playing in the streets, couples walking together, and early drinkers. They were enjoying themselves! I had a new perspective, but I was scared. Anyone would be if they traveled without a good plan. We are a harbor with many boats, so it will be easy to find a good boat to travel on. Will we stay in Brico, or travel to the other islands? Singyargoulnor doesn’t allow visitors anymore due to the war they are fighting, but Belum is open. However, we would have to travel by boat, and that’s treacherous, with the boat thieves after all. I look up toward the clock. My break is ending soon. I look toward Snapper, whose eyes are focused on the ground in deep thought. I’m still standing, and I have only a couple of minutes left with Snapper at this moment. I tap on his left shoulder.

“My break is almost over, let's talk about planning when I get home.” I sigh

Snapper seems upset at this idea, yet he stood up with me,

“Alrighty, I’ll see you at home.” Snapper hesitated.

Snapper stood up and walked toward the house. After he was out of line of sight, I ran into the shop. I was late as is, and I was sure Ionia would be mad. I wasn’t correct, Ionia smiled and welcomed me in, and then she got back to work in the back. I sat down and scanned my surroundings for any customers. I relaxed as I saw no one. I sat in a more relaxed position and grabbed our items of the day, which I had forgotten to check. As I picked up the paper from under the desk, the door opened. I sat up and corrected my posture. It was an older man who seemed to be a fisherman; I welcomed him in and went back to studying the items. We had a lot of fishers here due the bay being nearby. I peeked out of the corner of my eye to check on him, but he was gone. I looked all around the store and checked all the cheeses, and a part of the Parmesan was gone! 

I groan, “What a jerk.”

I sat down in my chair, growing with sadness, and I let Ionia down. While putting my head down on the counter, I noticed a piece of paper, and I had the day's paper in my hand. I put my head up to see a rugged map of the sea between Brico and Belum, and he must have heard me talking with Snapper. It’s a start, but I don’t want to explain to Ionia that a fisherman stole cheese and then gave me a map.

 

 

 

*Image context*

**weathered map containing Belum, Singyargoulnor, and Brico**

*Brico is North, Singyargoulnor is South, and Belum is East*

***************************

 

After explaining what happened to Ionia, I walked home. The wind howled in my ears. It has gotten darker as I worked, and the weather has shifted. Now it is no longer sunny, and now it is windy and cold. When I arrived at the house, it was locked as Snapper was here; I unlocked the door and saw Snapper working away in the kitchen from the entryway. Snapper looked up from the high flames and started a smile before looking back at what he was doing. I walked through the door of the entryway and closed the door behind me. I took off my shoes and sat in a rocking chair in the living room. I was too scared to check the kitchen, so I sat and picked up a book on the history of sailors. I relaxed thinking about our new adventure, yet I still had a feeling of doubt. What if we get stranded in Belum and we are never seen again? What if we encounter a thief who steals our boat, or when we buy our boat, we find it's broken, and now we are stranded in the middle of the sea? I try to stop this spiral of thoughts, but it's hopeless. I put the book away to change my mind. When I notice it's quiet in the kitchen, I feel that's unnatural for Snapper. I try to peek by leaning forward in my chair, but it's hopeless.

“Snapper?” I cautioned

Silence came to me, and I shook my head and stood up. I walked on the carpet of the living room, rubbing against my socks. I reached the entry of the kitchen when, 

“BOO!” Snapper screamed.

I swung at him, landing a blow on his face. I stood there, knuckles aching shocked, as Snapper was holding cooked fish with mashed potatoes. The redness of the blow was only illuminated by his blush deepens. He started to blubber, looking at his feet.

“My gods!! Snapper!” I yelled, still a bit frightened of the stove. 

I stopped to give Snapper a frozen fish to put on his face. I ate and talked. 

I sigh, “You almost gave me a heart attack.” 

I took another bite of fish, and Snapper started eating with the fish on his face. 

“I understand that you were trying to be funny, but The Lord Dein!”[ly1] 

“Priya,” “I’m sorry,” Snapper muttered 

I groan; I feel terrible for yelling at him. 

“We-I-,” I’m sure how to apologize. “I’m sorry.” 

That's all I can start with. 

“I know a great ice cream place we can visit after we eat.” I spoke

Snapper sniffled, “That would help.” 

“That's a plan then.” 

I started eating my fish and finished very fast, unlike the way I usually do. Snapper finished a bit earlier and started putting on his shoes. I clean up a bit, then walk over to the entry to see Snapper tapping his feet like an excited toddler; I put on my shoes quicker than usual. Then we close and lock the door behind us. Snapper walks ahead, looking at the slowly setting sun, the wind has picked up, and now we are seeing more people going out to eat and to get drunk. I walk a bit faster to keep up with Snapper, but it is futile, and now Snapper is almost running. A lot faster than he was as a turtle. I grab him and we walk into the now-closed market. The carts and shops are mostly shut up for the night, except for a tiny cart with a tiny lady, who makes the best ice cream in town. I wave and she smiles all big,

“Where have you been, darling?” “Oh! Who is this?” she nudges 

“Oh, this is Snapper. I met him on my trip to the forest.” Only slightly lying

“Thank you for bringing dear Snapper,” She welcomed us closer

I step closer and watch as she prepares my favorite flavor, mint. I look toward Snapper 

“So, what flavor do you like?” I ask

“Why do you like mint?” Snapper cringed

“It’s a good flavor?” “You can try a bite of it, Snapper!” I gleam. 

Snapper looks at me like he’s ashamed. I grab my cone of mint, and Snapper looks at the options. Snapper points at the chocolate, and she gets to work. I munch on my mint, and Snapper still looks at me like I’m crazy. I might just shove the cone in his face. I look away and sit on a bench nearby. Snapper soon follows with its chocolate cone. I sit and eat the flavor, cool and sweet, causing my head to feel cold and my teeth to freeze. I look over at Snapper, who is looking at my cone with curiosity. I move my cone over to him and Snapper looks hesitant. I keep it there, the sweet dribble melting on my fingers and my wrist. He kept pondering, but with a deep breath, He licked the side of the cone. Snapper’s face softened with a slight enjoyment. I was proud that Snapper tried something new. I still felt terrible for hitting him.

“Hey, um-” I spilled, “I just wanted to say sorry again.” “I still feel awful, and I hope you’ll forgive me,” I blurted a bit too fast.

Snapper nodded and went back to his ice cream. I felt a little bit better, but I still feel like I should say more. I let the ice cream do the talking, even though I imagine his face will bruise and hurt till the day before rest day. I get to the bottom of my cone and eat the final part with one bite. The cone has to be the best part of any ice cream. I look toward Snapper again to see him covered in ice cream, and we must get him a handkerchief. I hand over my handkerchief.

“Keep it, you need it more than I do!” I spoke 

I look toward the sky; it's beginning to darken, and the drunkards become livelier. Snapper is done with my handkerchief, and Snapper puts it into the pants pocket. 

“So, I found a map of the sea today.” I blurt 

Snapper looks at me, his eyes full of wonder and excitement. 

Snapper starts, “Where did you find it?” his breath smelled of sweet and chocolate, not a good smell. I stand up as we depart from the ice cream stand, our bellies full and happy, yet it makes me think of the time before this. 

 

***************************

 

I was at my desk, the dark floorboard illuminated by the setting sun. I had a longer shift today, and I worked till closing. Ionia walks in from the back and closes the shop. I felt numb, not numb, more like a dull throb in my brain that kept me staring at the floorboards. I couldn’t live anymore, my mother had cut contact when my father died, and I assumed the worst. I had no one left to get mail from, no one visited, and no one left after the fire. I stood up, keeping my eyes on the floor, and left before helping close. Ionia spoke, but I couldn’t listen anymore. I was done. I arrived home, locked the door behind me, and didn’t cry. I have felt this time and time again. The numbness continued as I grabbed the bag my mom bought me and packed a few items. I opened the door, locked it behind me, and walked into the darkness. 

 

***************************

 

I woke up out of my trance, and Snapper looked still at the sky as we walked. We arrived at home, and I walked up toward my room; as Snapper walked toward the restroom to wash his clothes and himelf. I closed the door behind me. My room is very barren; it lacks any characteristics of me. I slid down on the floor with the door behind my back. I looked at the deep carpet, wishing it would swallow me whole. I choke back a sob. I wish Snapper didn’t find me. I wish I had died in the woods in the deep moss, my body tired and lonely. Surrounded by nature, and the lost sounds of the neighboring birds and frogs. I would have died right then and there if Snapper hadn’t stopped me, and I would have been happy. A knock startled me away from the door. I had realized I had tears dripping down my cheeks, and I was embarrassed. 

Snapper spoke from the other side of the door, “I’m finished with the tub, it’s all yours.”

“Thank you, Snapper,” I acknowledged, my voice was shaky, and I quivered at the thought of admitting this to Snapper. I sat down fully on my bed and plopped down, my face hot with tears being held back. I sat up when I was composed and walked out the door toward the bathroom. As I opened the door, I noticed a paper with light words scribbled on it. 

“Priya, I hope you are okay. I noticed you were a bit off after we went to get ice cream. If you want to talk, I am here. I am forever grateful for you taking me in without a second thought. I am very excited for our trip, and I hope you get some rest tonight.”

I read it repeatedly, stifling another sob. I cannot tell Snapper this; it will break his spirit. I walk into the bathroom, still holding the note, and my eyes catch the razor. I can’t, but the thoughts echo through my skull and grab the attention of my wrist. I stop, clutching the note in my hands, it grabs my attention once more, and I put the razor in the cabinet beneath the sink. I set the note down. I put my clothes into the smaller bucket beside the tub. I wash them and strain them to get rid of the soap and water. I hang them to dry and wash my face and body. It's freezing, it helps ground me. My body is sore from the days before. I sat in the tub, seeing the grime and dirt come off my body, I shivered against the tile as I got out, and I wrapped my arms around my chest as I grabbed my towel.  I wrap it around my body and put some balm on my hands and face. I grab the note and walk out of the bathroom and into my room. I put on my nightgown and slipped underneath the covers, my thoughts silenced by the small symphony of frogs and crickets. I hold the note in my hands still as still, I read it again; I play over telling him the thought, the horrible thought. Telling him I would rather be dead than be here, I’ll keep it to myself. I should be punished for thinking such thoughts; may Lord Dein send my soul down to this world for eternity. I sit up, still holding the letter, I stand, and I set it on my dresser along with the map and the letter from Lilith. I lie back down, but not in the covers; I am a bit warmer after putting on my nightgown. I cannot stop brooding at the thought, and it keeps me from sleeping. I pull out a book on sea creatures on my nightstand and read for hours on end till the sweet release of sleep.

***************************

I wake before dawn breaks; my muscles slightly relaxed from the light bath yesterday. I realized my eyes are hurting, and they are swollen to the touch. I groan, I've been crying in my sleep again. I have a longer shift today, and it's going to be worse. Not only do people feel ‘sympathetic’ about my face, but they'll also think I've been crying over it. I slap my face in retaliation and put on my work clothes. The apron and dress feel looser. Maybe it was when I washed them? I grab my coin purse and open my door. Another note?  I grab the white note hanging off my door with tape to read,

            “Good morning, Priya! I made breakfast, and I also made a warm bath for you. I made some eggs and some potatoes!”

Short and sweet, I thought to myself. I walked into the bathroom to see a steaming bath ready for me; his presence made me so sure of today. I strip my clothes and feel the water with my hand. It's scorching! I pull my hand back in pain, and I grab my towel and dry my hand. I decided to brush my teeth, which is easy due to the hole, and to wait for the bath to cool. I wash my face, the cool water waking me up from my not very restful sleep. I check the tub with my pinky toe; it’s not any better, but good enough. I slide in carefully, the hot water almost scorching my skin, but it feels good. I begin to wash my body, the foam of the soap comforting my dry skin. The floral lye soap smells delightful. I continue washing my body with my thin bar of soap until I feel so much cleaner. Then I get out of the tub and dry thoroughly. I put on my work clothes, and they feel so much lighter than before. I tie my apron, dry and brush my hair. I open the door and walk through the doorway, a lighter person, with a clear mind, I am ready for the day.  I am very hot when I get downstairs, it is boiling. Snapper sat with all the windows open, its blouse slightly unbuttoned, sitting manspreading with its skirt on. 

            “You're wearing a skirt, Snapper.” I sigh

I handed him a fan from the drawer in the living room. He took it and started violently fanning himself while correcting his posture.  

“Thanks for the bath this morning,” I spoke.

“No problem Priya,” Snapper spoke his face flustered from the heat.

I walk into the kitchen; it’s brighter out due to the season of Cheer being upon us. I look at the small table we eat at to see a hefty proportion of potatoes and eggs. The eggs are slightly cold, but they still taste good.  I can tell he put some cheese and spices into it, maybe the same seasonings as the fish from last night? Last night, right, I should ask if Snapper's face is better?  I try to speak but end up choking on a piece of egg. After I regain my composure,         

I ask, “How is your face today?  “After I punched it last night?” 

Snapper stops fanning and comes with a succinct response.

“It’s fine.”

I continue eating, Lord Dein. It's hot today.

 

 [ly1]the equivalent of  Jesus or God.

Notes:

IDK HOW TO ADD IMAGES 😭😭😭😭 HELP WOULD BE APPRECIATED

Chapter 6

Notes:

This chapter has another warning!
(Anxiety attack, Feeling of uselessness, And past ref to $H)
Fun, right?
So uh I got distracted…, and I promised I would post this chapter in November… and it’s definitely December!

I sat up after eating. It was a delicious meal. I wipe around my face with my handkerchief, where I had egg in the corner of my mouth. I walk over to Snapper. his posture has gone back to manspreading, and now his back is on the couch, but not his head. Snapper’s head is on the floor. I stifle a laugh, and Snapper snaps up. 

            Snapper blushed, “Hey, aren’t you supposed to be leaving soon for work? 

            “Yep!” I catch the doorknob when I remember “We are going boat and supply shopping today, so I took the half day”

Snapper smiled a great big smile, showing all his teeth. I show a soft smile in return and close and lock the door behind me. Snapper’s smile joined my already good mood. I was clean, well fed, and smiling just this morning! Although I was running on a good mood, I still didn’t sleep well, so with the time I had, I stopped by a coffee shop. I walked in, and the fragrance of dull coffee beans and sweets lit the room. The calm and quiet ambiance urged me to step lightly, with the fear of disrupting someone's calming morning routine. I feel on edge to be as quiet as I can, but when I need to speak to order, I feel so loud. 

I clear my throat and speak low, “I would like a caffeinated herbal tea, please.” 

I grab my tea in a mug and sip in a nearby chair, watching the sun slowly rise on this fair morning. I should have gotten my tea colder. It's far too hot to drink this, but I consume it anyway. I grip the auburn mug in my hands; its warming presence brightens my mood. I finish the mug and look at the tea leaves forming at the bottom. I set the mug down on a nearby counter and left for work. The warm air makes me want to take a layer off, but I’ll wait until I get inside the shop to decide. While I walk, I spot a familiar sight, brown auburn hair curled into a bun. I walk into the store, not thinking anything of it. Ionia greets me, and I step behind the counter to see today's prices and specials, and then walk back to clock in. The sun has just started to rise on the right side of my face. It gets brighter when someone walks into the shop, the sun now showing when they open the door. I walk into the main shop and step behind the counter. I try to keep my eyes open to greet them, but I end up closing my eyes partly. I cover my eyes for a second and look back toward the left, where Ionia put the specials on a chalkboard. I looked to check on the person who walked in to see them staring at me at the counter. I falter back, but I remember that face, 

I shout “Lilith!?” 

Lilith then smiles, her bright eyes creasing into a happy display. Her pretty dark face shines against the sunrise.

            “How have you been, My Priya!”

My Priya? Those words made me shiver, such a show of affection. I wonder if it's because it’s been a while since we’ve seen each other. 

            I answered her, finally, “I’ve been pretty good, how about you?”

I sit as I listen to her tale. 

            She begins, “I graduated from college in foreign languages, and after I did, I went to Belum!” 

I nod, hoping she elaborates, so I have a clue of what to do. 

“I rode to Belum by boat, my grandfather had lent it to me for the summer. I rode five days through the rough waters. I ran out of food halfway through due to hunters.” She added, “Then after that, I arrived and found an inn for me to live in for the summer; they were hospitable to me, and I hope they're still alright after the town got invaded by a weird child.” 

I stare in disbelief, “A weird child?”

“Yeah, it was made of shadows and talked of someone releasing it.”

I managed, “The Lord Dein….” 

“Do you know someone in Belum? I’m sorry if this is the way you found out. “It happened a little while ago,” Lilith comforts.

Oh, The Lord Dein, now I know, and Snapper caused this. I stare in comfort at the counter, not sure of my next sentence. What could have caused this? Why are they doing this? Why did they leave the island? Is it because we broke Snapper’s curse?              I managed to ask a question out of the plethora, “Do you know what caused this?”

Lilith stood for a while playing with her curly hair before speaking, “I think I saw in the letter that the child went into the woods.” 

Okay, that only proves my point. 

            “Anyways, sorry for the bad news, I'll pray to Galena,” She splutters, “What would you recommend for a hearty soup?” 

            “Oh, um, the Gruyère we just made is good in soup,” I say while staring at the counter in thought. “I’ll get it for you.”                       

I stand and grab the fresh cheese bag, and she pays and leaves, but before she leaves, She blows a kiss and speaks,

“Goodbye, my dear Priya, I hope to see you tomorrow!”  

I can’t help but blush my mind out, but I control myself to think of what to do next. My dear? What does she mean? What can I start with before my thoughts start spiraling? Well, I think we could keep up with our plan, and travel to Belum and figure out what’s happening then. Okay, that's all I can start with.  

***************************

I work until my lunch break, I untie my apron, and clock out. Ionia says goodbye, and I untie my apron as I walk out the door. Snapper sits on the bench next to the shop, looking out toward the many shops in the market next door. While I have been sitting behind a counter, the market has been set up, ready for people to buy. 

I clear my throat as if not to startle Snapper, “So you're ready to buy a boat?”

Snapper looks toward his side at the street food being prepared. He looks toward me and says,

“My mom always told me to eat before I go shopping.” He was hinting at getting something to eat because he was hungry. I start moving toward the direction of a wing stall. Snapper followed directly behind me, taking in the sights of the bustling market. I stand in front of the wing stand; its heavy heat isn’t helping the already hot day. How can they stand that? 

The person behind the stand talks with a small shout, “What would you like today?” 

I look toward Snapper and nudge him. 

He clears his throat and say, “May I have six wings with a sweet honey coating?”

“Of course!” The person looks in my direction

            “Oh, just some garlic wings, same amount,” I said.

We sit on a bench with a table made to eat in the market, and in a short time, our food is ready. I pick it up and look at the delicious-looking food on a decorative plate. I must wait for it to cool down. I prefer to break down the wings so they're easier to eat without too much slobber getting everywhere. I sit back for a little while more until I feel it’s not as hot to put my hands in. I tear into the chicken, feeling its heat on my fingers against the glass plate and the delicious chicken.  I grab a piece of chicken, peel it off the bone, and slide it into my mouth. I peek at Snapper. He had already finished, and now he is looking at the Cheer sights. 

I finish chewing, “You can get a head start if you want to. I know I’m a slow eater.” 

Snapper gets out of his trance, “Oh, I’m fine like this!” and he got back to looking at the sky and the people walking by.  

I get back to my food, it’s so delicious I can’t help but smile at the slightly greasy garlic wings. I pull another strip, finishing one wing off; I grab another, and it's a lot hotter than the one I just finished. Eating in public has never been my favorite. I look toward Snapper to make sure that he isn’t grossed out. I look at Snapper to see him making an origami crane out of napkins. I’m happy to see him unbothered by slow eating; I am starving, I want to eat faster, but eating faster will make me look gross. Snapper looks towards me; I imagine he must have felt my gaze. I look down at the cobblestone ground. I feel so gross, my face is getting hot. It’s mostly due to the heat outside, but also due to the way I feel. Snapper takes the fan out of his pocket and offers it to me.

            “I could tell you were getting uncomfortable,” he said.

I grabbed the fan and gave thanks. I covered my face while I popped another wing in. Lord Dein, these wings never disappoint. After a long while of eating wings, we went to the harbor to buy a boat. It's now around 1:00, and everyone seems to be back to work, so it's easier to get to the harbor. I pull Snapper over to a boat salesman, who is reading a book, trying to get through the day. I catch his attention when I walk to his stall, which is a small stall with guides with prices and available boats.

            He says, “Hello, Ms. and Mr!” “Nice to meet you!” 

            “Yes, hello!” Snapper acknowledged 

            “Are you looking or buying?” The man continued

            “We are buying today; may we look at your boats?” Snapper continued

I was not entirely shocked that Snapper talked to the salesman, but his way of speaking was shocking. I guess he is more mature than I expected. I fan myself and pay attention to the conversation that I missed due to my thoughts. We are in front of a beautiful small fishing boat. It has slight wear on the bottom, but it seems very nice. Solar panels on the top power the boat, I assume. It has a teal coating on the starboard and white on the rest of the boat. I look toward Snapper, he is starstruck, he loves this boat. 

            “May I ask how long it runs for and how much it costs?” I ask

            “Oh, it lasts 30 times the amount you’ve charged it.” “It has no limit either,” The man explained.

I sit pondering if this is the one, when Snapper looks toward me. His puppy eyes beckoned to buy this boat. 

            I speak, “We’ll get it.”

***************************

We walk to a supply shop, and we need more food for the boat. I gave Snapper a 1000-grain and a list of items needed for our ride. I walked over to the store next door for things for the boat that were needed. Racks on racks of assorted items greeted me; I looked at my list.

~Tarp (to cover the boat)

~Three lights (one extra)

~Matches

~Towels

~Life Vests (five)

~First Aid:

(Band-aids, Wraps, Healing mud, Bruise balm, Splints for every possible broken bone, Drinkable pain remedy, and Stitches and needles.)

~Flare

~Three knives (in case of an attack)

~Fork, Spoon, Knife

~Snacks

I start collecting things we need when I hear the doorbell ring. Snapper walks in with a bag full of items. He opens the tote bag to see cookies, some soup, crackers, a children’s book, bread, a small turtle plushie, and assorted fruits. I pause for a moment, trying to compose myself,

            “I sent you to get some clothes?” I say, trying to stifle my laughter.

Snapper flushes, his ears turning a vibrant red. I calmed down so as not to embarrass myself and Snapper. 

            “It's fine, we can get that later,” I spouted.

Snapper puts the tote bag to his side and starts looking for items on the list. Snapper pays attention to the items, ensuring fair price and quality. We finish and check out. We completed all the preparation, and it's now later in the day. Now it's 3:00, we are both tired and ready to sit down and relax; however, I would like to do something nice for Snapper. Once we arrive at the house, I sit a book down for him and start planning dinner. I’ve gathered all my courage to start the fire. I grab the match, light it, put it on the logs, fan it, and then, fire! Okay if I don’t look to long my mind won’t panic. I feel more comfortable chopping potatoes and preparing cheese. I don’t look toward the stove quite yet; I grab a small pot to put the potatoes in and put water inside. I sit it on the stove, keeping my eyes away from the fire. It boils, and I put the potatoes in; it's heating up in my mind. With a splash, the boiling water touches my left hand. I try not to let out a yelp, but it's touched and stung my left wrist. 

            “Dammit,” I whisper silently to myself. 

Walking to the sink right next to the stove, I rinse my hands under water for a minute. Once I get it calmed down, I'll get another pot to make a cheese sauce. I grab the freshly cut cheddar and pour some milk. I again look toward the pot and not at the fire below the stove. I set it on the stove and waited. I peek toward Snapper to check on him to make sure he isn’t asleep or bored out of his mind. I walk towards the living room, to be met with Snapper peering over the small counter that connects the kitchen and living room, holding a plush in hand. Snapper sits down, not expecting me to check on him; he sits down quickly on the carpet. I look away; maybe he is still a kid at heart. I look toward the stove, cooking, and get back to work. I glance toward the counter to see Snapper's eyes slowly peering over the counter. I start getting a strainer for the potatoes, and I see that the water is no longer boiling. It must have run out of firewood. I dread changing the wood. After I strain the potatoes, I walk over to the firewood stack in the corner of the room.  I pull one out, I walk over, I falter. I start to cry but cannot. I am stuck again. I am powerless, I am weak. My knees collapse, and I start to tear up. On the floor now, staring at the stove, my eyes can focus on only this. I grab at my wrist and scratch at healed scars. Causing a sliver of deep crimson.

            “For mercy’s sake,” I shiver. 

Snapper walked over slowly, not to scare me. He didn’t succeed. I shook when he set a hand on my left shoulder, comforting like when he was a turtle lying on my shoulder on my collarbone. He sits in front of me, eyes parallel. His eyes are full of sympathy that I don’t deserve; I feel pitiful, and I can’t even cook without breaking down. I am unable to cry, but I still let out a sob. 

“I’m so useless,” I release in between sobs.

Snapper pulls me into a hug, covering my face from the sight of the stove. My breathing is ragged, my face is hot, but Snapper, Snapper is a safe place right now.  He hugged me tightly, causing me to slow my breathing to his. After a while, Snapper loosened and let me free. By now, I was calmer, but my conviction was shattered. 

            Snapper spoke in a low voice, “May I help?”

            I sigh, “I don’t deserve you.”

Snapper wipes my tears and hugs me once more; even more tightly, he pulls me closer. He stands and offers a hand to me. I take a deep breath and grab hold of his hand. He guides me towards the dinner table, and he grabs the fallen firewood. He fed the fire and checked everything,

            “Would you like to start again?” Snapper asked

I nod and resolve to do at least one thing. I get up, minding my steps with my shaken nerves. I take a pan out and start layering the cheese and sliced potatoes. Then I get a lid for the pan, cover it, and put it on the stove. I sit down at the dining table, Snapper sitting across from me. My feet start to shake. I cannot control it; my nerves are shot. Snapper is paying no mind to me, reading a children’s book, and cuddling a turtle plush bought previously. He read quietly, reading each page methodically. I set a time for fifteen minutes on my pendulum clock. After a few minutes, I checked on the food, and it was ready. I take it off the stove, placing a mat below the pan so as not to burn my table. I open the lid to reveal the potato and cheese casserole. Snapper looks hungrily at the food, so I grab a plate and a fork. He spoons the potatoes onto his plate, seeing the steam rise on his face. 

            “Be sure to wait till it coo-,” I say, but Snapper had already bitten into the cheesy potato. 

Snapper drops his fork, leaving a clatter on the plate, and I go to grab him a water. I hand him cold water to soothe his burnt tongue. Snapper sips a small amount of water and starts blowing on his potatoes to cool him. I grab some potatoes as well. Letting it sit for a minute before picking up a sliver of the potato with my fork and blowing to cool. Taking a small bite to check the temperature. I ate the rest of the potatoes, enjoying every bite. I put my plate into the sink and looked toward Snapper. H pulled out a book and started reading. I grab his plate and wash all the dishes. Two forks, two plates, two pots, two people. It’s such a new feeling, almost nostalgic for my parents. I finish up washing and grab the pan and put it into the icebox. I wipe down all the surfaces, making sure to get everything clean. I decided to grab a book as well, since Snapper is still reading. I grabbed a book on Belum language to study before we leave tomorrow. Belumnese has a pretty accent, but it's hard to understand. Leaving my house will be a struggle; I've just gotten used to living ebb and flow. It will be a pretty big change, but I’m ready.

***************************

 

I run out into the deck, my bare feet slapping against the wood. It’s wet and storming, and I try not to slip in the when the waves crash into the boat causing a quake in the starboard. I hear yelling, my name, rushed and worrisome. I am running, why?

“Priya!” the voice spoke

To someone! Who? I don’t know, and before I can gather all my thoughts,

“PRIYA” the voice grows louder and louder

I look toward the direction to see the main sail pole racing to my face, and before I can react BAM.

***************************

 

I woke up with a stir, I felt my face and released a sigh, I had awoken. I slept very little; my sleep was touch-and-go. I prayed to Huina to let me sleep, but to no avail. I grab some clothes, not my work clothes. I go to my drawer, and there sits Snapper's note and Lilith's invitation. I grab the invitation and pick out a dress to wear. I have very little, so I grab the first one I see. A yellow dress with small green leaves sewn on; my mother’s last birthday gift before she left. I put it on, making sure everything is manicured, and I start packing for our trip today. When I hear a knock on the door, not my bedroom door, but my outside door. I look outside; it's the dead of the night still! I walk with a purpose. I grab the previously bought knife in case of an unwanted conflict. I step lightly not to wake Snapper sleeping on the couch. I peer out the peephole…

Notes:

I ALSO HAVE A BETA READER!!!! So I have a little guy in my DMs telling me about my book, I appreciate them very much!

Chapter 7

Notes:

So uh Yorkshire accents are hard to write. Pray for me

Lilith stood patiently, carrying a small tote bag, wearing a beautiful maroon, it looks beautiful against her dark skin and brown hair. I unlocked the door and tried to smile. Why this early? I thought to myself, bracing for a warm hug. 

            “Good morning, my dear Priya!” She spoke; I shushed her and motioned her to the couch where Snapper slept. Lilith looked shocked at the sleeping Snapper. I guided her upstairs to talk. We arrived in my room, and Lilith sat on my bed. I move toward my nightstand to remove the map, invitation, and Snapper's note. Eyes all around the room, her beautiful maroon dress. Her beautiful black, curly hair, she’s so pretty. I snap back to reality, realizing I’ve been staring. I clear my throat, 

“So, good morning!” I quip. Lilith doesn’t seem very focused.

            I start again, “What brings you here in the crack of dawn?” Lilith’s posture changed as she focused on the conversation. 

            “Oh, I wanted to see you before the party!” She blushes behind a drawn-up sleeve. I cannot help but blush as well. Someone visits just to see me?

            I cleared my throat, “So, do you want some breakfast?” 

“That would be nice!” Lilith smiles.

We walk down into the kitchen, walking very lightly so as not to wake Snapper. I grab some eggs from the icebox and light spices. I get the pan. Grabbing matches and some firewood, I light it, but the fear in my heart still resides. Mixing eggs as softly as I can, I pour the eggs into the pan, and a sizzle awakens. Lilith sits politely at the dining table, which reminds me of the only two chairs I own. I’ll use the rocking chair. Folding and putting in the final spices, I make the eggs. I put them on a separate plate and investigated the icebox to see if I could add anything. I grab some of the cooked fish and put them into the pan. Heating them, I chop them up with my spatula. Once it is warm enough, I put them with the eggs and put the plate on the table. I find the plates and grab us some as well as Snapper. We eat together till we get our fill; the overlapping smells of fish and eggs fill our senses with delight. 

“Do you want any more?” I ask, making sure she has eaten enough. 

She declined politely, cleaning off her plate in the sink. I walk over to Snapper to try to wake him before the food gets cold, but he was already up! 

Snapper looks up at me in a playful manner and asks, “So who was that?”

I stumble my thoughts, “Oh— that’s um Lilith” 

Snapper plays a devilish smile and walks into the kitchen.

“Nice to meet you, Lilith!” 

He offers a hand to her. She takes it with a polite smile.  

“Nice to meet you as well!” “I believe you are Snapper?”

Snapper spoke, “That’s correct!”

He sat in a seat across from Lilith and ate his breakfast. The early light began to shine from the kitchen window in the front of the house. 

“Well, I might as well get ready for the day." Since I was just rudely awakened.

 I head up the stairs to my room; the cold flooring upstairs chills against my bare feet. The bathroom is colder than the rest of the house; the symmetrical tiles are soothing. I grab my brush and pull my hair into a small ponytail. My orange hair is trapped in the sink. I pull it out and put it into the trash. I hear a knock on the door. I’m startled, but before I can say anything, I hear Lilith’s voice.

“So, I brought you something.” She said shyly.

 I pry open the door to see her holding a small, wrapped object. I pick it up from her hands and take a closer look. The wrap is a beautiful sunset color. I open it and it’s a beautiful orange-yellow dress! I lift it to see the rest of the skirt when I notice a small fabric of a different color at the bottom of the wrap. I grab it to see a veil that would cover my face. 

“I’ve been looking for one of these! How did you know?” I spoke. 

Lilith looked to the flooring and muttered while fidgeting, “Snapper had mentioned when I saw him outside the shop. I believe you didn’t notice him out there.”

I stifle a laugh. Snapper stalked me yesterday! Lilith nodded, “Yes, he was outside when I left!” I laugh and pick up the veil and look toward the mirror. I felt a lot more confident than before. Wearing the yellow veil, I walk over to my room. I put on the dress and tie the veil more comfortably. I open the door to see that Lilith had gone downstairs. My face feels hot wearing this dress; the neckline is down lower than my usual dresses or shirts. I close my door and notice a note.

“Me and Snapper are downstairs we are ready for the party whenever you are!”

I should probably head down, but I notice something on the back it's been scribbled out lightly. I put it against the light of the window,

“You look very beautiful”

I blush so hard my face turns into a tomato like color. I slap it to bring myself back into a normal state.

“I'm overthinking it’s nothing!” I try convincing myself

I put my veil on and check the dress before walking downstairs. I reach the bottom of the steps and see Lilith and Snapper talking,

Snapper beams, “So we will be traveling to Belum after the party!”

Lilith looks a bit sad I don’t understand why, but I put on my leather loafers that I often walk in and walk over to Snapper and Lilith. Snapper gives a thumbs up and Lilith has a small blush around her ears. She clears her throat and stands up,

"Well let's get to it!”

She walks over the door and grabs her shoes. Snapper looks at me and nudges my side, with a sly grin that means he did something or about to do something. I give him a glare as to not cause a stir. Snapper grabs his plushie and walks toward the door, I join them and step outside into the rising sun.

 

***************************

We walked for a little while until we arrived on campus; the shrubbery is still as clean as it was years ago. I look toward the bench I used to sit on every day during lunch, my past classes, and the main hall for meetings or announcements. The towering church style buildings are bland, and the only splash of color is in the winding vines on the higher steeples and points. We walk into the dining hall, and we are greeting with the echoing voices off the high ceilings. The benches are longer than my entire house and they are wooden. Chandeliers touch the high ceilings and illuminate the entire hall. People stand in groups, they vary in age, most are my age others are older and wiser. The dean walks over; she is an older woman with brown hair and gray streaks lighten her hair. She has a green shirt with a dark red bow and dark trousers. Her name is Miss Morton, and she is also a survivor of the fire. Her voice is raspy, and her neck has a small burn mark.

She spoke, “Good morning, Lilith, and who do we have with us today?”

Snapper hid behind me, but since he is big, he didn't hide very well. Miss Morton glanced at me, and then it hit her.

“The Lord Dein!” “Is that little Priya!” She shouted a bit too loud.

I shifted now there was few people my age looked toward me and whispered among themselves. Now I felt the need to hide behind Snapper.

Lilith noticed and spoke, “She’s my plus one,”

Miss Morton raised an eyebrow, but she dismissed it and gave us the food passes for the eloquent meal that will be served. I grab Lilith’s hand and move over to a quieter spot I relive a sigh of relief. I don’t enjoy parties of any sort. I sit down on one of the great hall benches and close my eyes for a second. I try to slow my breathing, but then someone walks over.

“Is 'a' theur Priya?” a gruff man questions.

I just wanted to cloister myself into my room, yet I am here. Then I realize I knew that why of speaking. I look up from the bench I was laying my face on to see Tommy Lakes. He has gotten a lot bigger than he was as a teen, and his short brown hair is now along his back. He smells of fish and the ocean, and his face is rougher. He speaks in Belum. He looks at Lilith and walks over to her and whispers loud enough for the both of us to hear,

“Ah knew theur 'ood gerr wi' eh up” He teased

Lilith blushes, and I sit there confused, Ah knew... I knew, gerr wi’ eh up... I came to the sudden realization and buried my hand in my hands. Tommy laughs a joyous laugh, and he roughed up the head of Snapper.

“Naw whoa is dis daft child?” Tommy peered over at Snapper.

Snapper hid more now behind Lilith,

“Ah dint ta scare t' beeam, soz.” He comforted.

Tommy sits down with me and starts talking about his day,

“Naw ah wor art ont' docks today fishin 'n when ah looked intoa uz mail ah noticed summa' tucked back! it wor t' invitation! ah 'adn't seen it while today! ah 'ed neya tahhm ta change ah just when on o'a!” He rambled on.

I sit and nod politely, I cannot understand him, but I will still listen. Snapper had relaxed a bit and now had sat down, and Lilith had followed sitting next to me. So here we are, Snapper on Tommys right, me on Tommys left, and Lilith on my right. Tommy goes on about his day and any other thing he can spout. Now as he was talking about a dinner he had at the docks. The lunch bells rang. Everyone quieted and sat into the bench with a coordinated silence. An usher of silence followed. A chair screeched against the hard cold flooring and at the front of the hall a podium stood. Miss Morton stood next to an old stout man, his faces were solemn and yet, a delightful smile hid behind their serious faces. The stout man cleared his throat,

“Now I know all you are hungry, so I’ll keep it short,” He flipped a paper and looks out into the long hall, “I am proud of every one of you, and even if you didn’t go all the way to graduate. My hope is that you are enjoying your life at any stage of your life, and that you are successful in what you choose. Now with that over with, let’s eat!”

I pull out my lunch ticket and look toward the halls great doors opening. Servers come with platters of food on carts. Snapper is look up at the high ceilings; Tommy is patiently waiting hungrily. A cart stops by and the server asks,                

“Any dietary restrictions?”

Tommy raises his hand and spoke a bit softer than usual,

“Aye ah cannot ea' fish.” He admits

I turn to him,

“You're a fisherman?” I question.

“I've bin allergic ta fish uz whole, bur ah doa love fishin sa ah just wear umpteen o' protection!” He spoke.

I never knew that. He did always pack a lunch and was cautious around food. You learn new things every day, I guess. I picked a chicken lunch, and Snapper picked a beef lunch. The chicken is smothered in a pale gravy, and the chicken is breaded. I remove my veil for the time being. I ate with the sound of clinking silverware against ceramic plates in the background. The plates had an intricate design and looked like the sea. Another server comes by with various jugs full of teas and sweet drinks. I just go with water and take small sips and ate my chicken at my normal pace. It fills my hungry stomach; it’s a comforting feeling being full of delicious food. I finish about half of my chicken when I look over at Snapper and Tommy on my right, and Snapper and Tommy had finished their chicken and Snapper looks toward me and asks,

“Are you going to eat that?” He asked with food in his mouth, it was very gross.

I pass my chicken over to him and listen to what Tommy is saying,

“Uz gaffa 'as sa menny expectations o' uz, 'n ah dooant mean ta carp bur it's flaggin',” He speaks in a low tone incase his boss does pop out of nowhere.

“I've bin wukkin real 'ard art ont' pia. uz gaffa 'ed uz wukkin late shifts, 'n daft quotas! i've 'ed enuff!”

He had gotten a bit louder to be heard in the hall of chattering people. I’ve had enough of the noise and people, and it most have shown in my face to Lilith. While Lilith looks curious at me, Snapper and Tommy ate their second serving; I lay my head on the counter and fold my arms as a pillow and block my ears.

“Are you okay?” Lilith had slighty yelled to get her voice across the noise.

“I’m fine” I say a bit too rudely, but she doesn’t take offense.

“You don’t look fine”

“Then stop looking” I blurt,

Lilith looks a bit shocked but laughs it off. She looks toward the high ceiling, there were small windows, and from those small windows you could see it had begun to rain. After a couple minutes, Snapper and Tommy are talking and standing with most of the people who had finished their food. I stand to my bodies own avail, and I want to get up and leave. I want to atleast get out of the noise and the crowd, but I don’t want to be rude. I feel a hand on my left shoulder; Lilith stands next to me and points to the door. She is offering to wait outside with me, and I graciously accept. We exit through the smaller court doors; it leads out into a small area in the courtyard with an awning. When the doors shut behind me, I relieve a groan and sigh that releases tension in my head and shoulders. I hate places like that, and I prefer to be in the woods surrounded by wood as far as the eye can see. Lilith sits down on the bench nearby, it's the one I sat every day at lunch. She looks a lot calmer, Lilith always has a wood spine even when were alone, but she let down her guard today, just for this moment. The rain smells against the stone walkways, and the platter on the roof and floor makes a calm yet unorganized percussion rhythm. I sit next to her, and her wood posture is back suddenly as it disappeared.

“You don’t need to, -” I try to say, but Lilith breaks by sentence halfway.

“I want to go,” She speaks.

“Pardon?” I ask confused

“I want to join you and Snapper," She blurts keeping her eyes on the rain

“I mean sure I’ll just need to-” I start again but.

She stands up, back to the rain facing me, and she seems like she going to yell,

“I mean I know the language, and I can help navigate. I don’t know how to help with whatever you’ve got going on, but I want to be with you!”

I whisper when I say this, “I was going to say yes anyways.”

Lilith stands for a minute and covers in a red tomato blush stretching from ear to ear. She covers her face and sits next to me. She lost her wood posture and is now keeling over blushing next to me. I pat her back and speak,

“I need all the help I can get, and plus the boat has bunkbeds in the cabin.”

“I was assuming the worse,” she says beneath her arms.

“I sure understand that.” I say relaxing my body into the hard wooden bench. I pull the veil out of my pocket and consider putting it on,

“I like you without it,” Lilith says low enough for me to mistake the words, but I am sure that is what she said. I cough and put the veil in my pocket. Suddenly the door swings open revealing three of the people in my class. They glance my way and walk over to Lilith who has composed herself into her perfect self-everyone sees.

“How’s going V?” One of them says to her playfully.

“Oh, never better!” She speaks in a higher tone and tilts her head.

I wasn’t really paying attention to what they were saying, but an usher among the two boys standing near the entrance caught my ear.

“-Yeah the docks are closing up tonight” 

“No kidding, I mean I don’t want to risk a curse here”

Crap, we need to go to the docks. I move to check on Lilith and she is deep in conversation. I stand to get Snapper to leave. When Tommy opens the door,

“Thas chuffin' goan Belum! ah'm tooa. ain't 'a' eur surprise!” Tommy announces before all the strangers.

“Naw ah'm goan mek eur proposition! wha' if ah join theur? ah kna ta move t' boats!” He stands proud and happy with himself. I can only tolerate three people, but he plays well with Snapper,

“Okay, uh I guess I need more supplies, and we need to leave now,”

 I try to get myself mentally prepared for this, but I was thrown headfirst into sixteen feet deep water without a life vest.  I was so prepared I had my plan checked out. I grab Snapper and Tommy and Lilith goes to get their clothes and other supplies. Me and Snapper go to the docks to prepare the boat. Guards protect the dock and make sure we know what we're heading into. I change on the boat in the bathroom and mentally prepare for the long ride with my friends. Tommy was the first to arrive, and he was ready. He grabbed many things other that we have, 

~Boat repair items

~More snacks

~Sheets

~Compass

~Water

~Flare

~Big Floatation device

Tommy starts to tease as he’s pulling out the many things out of his canvas bag,

“Wor theur plannin on makin it art o' Brico?”

I laugh; I am glad he is coming now. He has a lot of expertise in boating, and I was nervous due to my nightmare last night. Lilith arrived later, and we casted off. The bow bounced with every wave, and we started slowing to get out of the harbor. The rain was light, and it coated our deck with a slippery and dangerous wet mess.  Snapper dawned a mop and aimlessly started to mop Tommy controlled the boat in a small, covered housing. Lilith sat in the cabin embordering to pass the time. She made a flower bouquet and set it aside. She walked out into the deck to check on everyone. We had now made it out of the harbor, and we picked up speed I stood in the small housing to keep Tommy company while Snapper mopped. Tommy and I talked,

“Naw wha' eur theur plannin ta doa I' Belum?”

I hadn’t really explained to everyone about how I found Snapper, or on how we might have awakened a deity. Not even on how we plan on helping said deity.

“Me and Snapper were curious about traveling and this was our first choice,” only slightly lying.

Tommy and I sat in the housing for two hours, Tommy watched and steered. I had gotten comfortable and taken off my dress shoes. Snapper is taking a nap, and Lilith sat in the cabin making sure nothing happened. It had gotten darker, and the sky looks turbulent. Tommy tries to reassure me,

“Naw it will be fine theur worried lahl fish.”

“It doesn’t look fine Tommy” I persuade

“’eear ahl prove it ta thee sa tha'il gi'o'a thy whimperin” “Tek dis,” He motions to the wheel

“I’m not comfortable enough Tommy” I pray for him to understand, but he just leaves the wheel unattended anyway. Tommy walks out into the deck and stands in the middle next to the mast. As I stand holding the wheel he heckled,

“See its fine theur chik'inn! ah'm still stand-” The sky tore open. A blinding light. A shattering boom. I flinched, my cry for help lost in the ringing silence. The world went white. Then there was nothing but a high-pitched scream in my ears. I wake on floor, my skull rattling inside my head, I shout until my voice is heard

“-ommy!” My voice is horse and loud

Snapper and Lilith run into the deck. The boat swayed from no hands being on the wheel. The pounding rain had gotten heavier, and the drumming sky continued. I can barely hear now over the sky roaring. Snapper runs to the wheel and Lilith grabs my shoulder and tries to lock eyes with me. I stand violently to reach him, to get to him, to save him. Lilith lunges to keep me from walking out into the deck but I need to get to him.

“What are you doing!” Lilith screams over the pouring rain and rocking boat. I point out into the deck to Tommy,

“He’s out there?” She yells to keep her voice heard among the crashing waves and rain. She is still holding on to my shoulders to keep me from running.            

“Let me out there!” I pant; I need to make sure he gets the care he needs.

“Stay here I’ll get him!” Lilith barks back, and she darts out into the dark murky rain. I can’t stay still I am now standing in the housing while Snapper steers. I watch from the window as Lilith runs for Tommy, and I see her pick him up only to struggle.

“I’m coming!” “Don’t worry!” I yell towards Lilith.

Moving my lead legs toward Lilith and Tommy.

Notes:

I know its short; however if this does good I will post the rest of the book!