Page 32 of Of Rime and Ruin

---

Cold, invigorating water.

Submerge.

Swim.

Open my mouth.

Inhale.

Search forherscent.

Is she where I left her?

Warm scent. Like sunshine.

Yes.

Still there.

Intoxicating.

Swim faster.

Have you ever seen the sun?

Her voice. Inside my head the other day. Like music.

The female with a golden tail. Golden, like the sun.

Sunfish.

Must see her again.

Must hear her music.

Follow her scent.

Enter the tunnels.

No one sees. I am alone.

Good.

Slick water. Quick tail. Easy as breathing.

“Friend?” she asked.

Confusing. What did she mean?

I have no friends.

I am a Beast.

She is soft, like lapping waves. Harmless.

Follow her scent.

Closer, now.

---