Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The quiet creak of the door disturbed the dead silence in the corridor. Footsteps echoed off the old wooden floors as I made my way to my room. The kerosene lamp in my hand cast a soft, dim light, painting the space in golden-orange hues. The evening was cool, but the light silk robe offered me some warmth after my recent bath. My hair was still damp, with droplets of water running down my neck, making me constantly wipe it as if they were insects crawling on me.

Closing the door behind me, I finally felt safe. No one should know what I'm planning to do tonight... Mother always scolded me for this, saying that sooner or later, people would burn or hang me in the main square of our not-so-large town. Extinguishing the lamp, I stepped out onto the balcony, where the cold night air enveloped me, causing me to shiver, though the feeling was rather pleasant. Silence reigned all around, only a slight breeze rustling the leaves on the trees by the window. I carefully surveyed the surroundings. No one. Just me, the night, and the stars.

Hidden from prying eyes, I carefully took out my special outfit from under the bed. This attire always brought me a sense of comfort and inner harmony. A white shirt and a warm reddish-brown skirt with light patterns. A skirt that I could only wear in these moments when I was alone, for who would approve of such a thing? Certainly not Mother... she was often ashamed of me as it was. I was quiet and rude to everyone with whom I felt even slightly uncomfortable, and people like that are not well-liked. I didn't grow up this way for no reason — since birth, the left side of my body was somewhat strange, unhealthy. Half of my body was covered in red spots, which, lacking a better term other than some ridiculous religious fanatic names, everyone called birthmarks. They didn't hinder my physical life, but people always stared, whispered, feared me, thinking I was contagious... My parents weren't much better — we rarely communicated, rarely interacted. Mother at least tried to be a good mother, while Father simply ignored me, giving all his attention to the older ones — my brother and sister, with whom I also had strained relationships... how else could I have turned out?

I put on my favorite skirt, feeling the fabric gently brush against my skin, and then took out the jewelry — several bracelets and a necklace. These accessories helped me concentrate and enter the right state of mind. Almost all of them were made of beautiful stones that I had found outside the town, and each stone was chosen with care, as I felt a connection with each one.

Opening the bedside table, I took out a candle and my Tarot deck. The candle quickly lit up, filling the balcony with a soft, flickering light. I placed it on the edge of the table, sat down on the soft chair, and, taking a deep breath of the cool air, closed my eyes. For several minutes, I simply sat in silence, feeling the night wrap me in its calm. Only the smell of the burning candle slowly filled the space around me.

Opening my eyes, I carefully took the cards. They lay in my hands like something alive... I began to shuffle them, whispering my question: "Will something happen to me tonight, why have I been so anxious all day?"

The cards slowly flowed from hand to hand until I felt they were ready to reveal their secret. My hand slowly slid over the rows of cards as if trying to catch their hidden energy. One of the cards suddenly drew me in, as if whispering its meaning. I drew it and turned it over — Death. My heart fluttered for a moment, but I quickly reminded myself that this card doesn't predict an end, but rather transformation, changes that are inevitable. This night could mark the beginning of a new phase, and the card only confirmed my worries.

I took a deep breath and reached for the cards again. The second card easily fell into my hand, as if it wanted to be chosen. I turned it over — The Star. The soft light on the card seemed to respond within me with calm and hope. The Star, a symbol of inspiration and something bright, promised something good, perhaps even a miracle. I felt the tension that had gripped me all day begin to ease. This night might bring me something special, something I had never seen before.

The third card caught my attention in a different way, more gently, but with deep certainty, as if it longed to be picked but didn't want to push. I slowly turned it over— Two of Cups. The card of partnership, alliances, pleasant encounters, and possibly love... I felt a strange excitement but didn't have time to ponder its meaning as I suddenly heard a soft rustling of leaves from the tree right outside my window. On the third floor, such an occurrence was unusual, and I felt a slight shiver run down my spine, but soon a small yellow bird flew out from the leaves and perched on the balcony railing, looking at me with curiosity. A smile involuntarily touched my lips. I knew who was nearby, knew who was sitting on the tree right now, trying to climb up to me. Oliver. My best friend... my first love...

And there he is! A boy my age, blonde, with light amber eyes, perpetually flushed cheeks, and a carefree smile, dressed like a simple villager, though, in truth, he wasn't one! He, like his family, like his community, was a wanderer, traveling from land to land, from town to town, from country to country. He told me many stories about what he had seen in the world... I first met him on the street when he and his community settled nearby in the middle of spring, just outside our town for a while. Oliver sat in the main square, telling stories from his life to the children and introducing them to his pet bird, who, as it turned out, was James, a sweet but sometimes very mischievous Goldfinch.

What intrigued me most about Oliver was the bandage on his face that covered his right eye. He was hiding something behind that bandage — maybe scars or burns, I thought — here he was, a person with the same problem as mine — a problem with appearance. He wouldn't be afraid of me or say something nasty, but that day, I didn't dare approach him. The next time we met was by a stream in the forest... he saw me searching for special stones and got interested. I thought that some wanderer wouldn't cause any problems, so I told him about my fascination with Tarot and various magic. Oliver was fascinated and asked me to read his fortune, but I didn't have my cards with me! He was disappointed and left, but that night, he appeared again while I was sitting on the balcony, reading the cards just like now... He asked again for me to read his fortune, and I did, starting to read his character...

The first and most obvious card for Oliver was The Fool: Oli lives with ease and joy, unafraid of new things, with a childlike — unsurprisingly — naivete, though sometimes careless and unpredictable! The second card, a more hidden trait, was The King of Wands: He is a confident leader, ready to take initiative, full of passion and enthusiasm, inspiring others! Oliver laughed, saying he wasn't a leader since he was just a foolish, careless boy, which even Oli himself agreed with, but I think he just hasn't yet encountered a situation where he would need to show his leadership! The final card was the Ten of Cups: Family and harmony in relationships are important to Oliver... Oli said that this applies to everyone, but I disagreed, being someone for whom this card wouldn't fit... I wasn't fortunate with my family.

Four months had passed since that fortune-telling, and Oliver began to visit me regularly, sometimes taking me beyond the town where we would walk together. We became very close; he even showed me what was hidden behind his bandage, but there were no scars, just a red eye... Oliver's mother, a very caring woman, according to Oli himself, insisted he wear the bandage in town. Who knows what the city's conservatives might think — maybe they'd say he's cursed! They'd grab him and hang him!

And here he is again! We hadn't seen each other for a week, and I missed him terribly... because I'd fallen in love. I never thought I could fall in love with anyone, I'd never felt that before, but this boy made my heart race, and I always felt so good with him... I felt suffocated in this society, in this house, and he was a breath of fresh air for me! I knew this love was not normal in our society, but the heart wants what it wants!

The boy suddenly jumped from the branch toward me, skillfully grabbing the balcony railing and, pulling himself up, clumsily fell onto my table, scattering all my cards and putting out the candle. Soon enough, he ended up at my feet, looking up at me with a smile, straight into my eyes.

— Ollie! — I exclaimed, helping my friend up from the floor and embracing him tightly. I was so happy to see him, — My God, where have you been? I thought you all had left already!

— Hey, Fufu! — Oliver responded, hugging me back. His hands are so gentle, soft, warm... how I missed their warmth, — Sorry, I was sick, and mom didn't let me leave the wagon at all... I rarely get sick, and it wasn't bad, but you know how she is!

— Ugh... I missed you so much... — I said, calming down and resting my head on the boy's shoulder, pressing my forehead to his neck, — The cards said you'd be fine and that your life would still be full of happiness, but I was still so worried... — I continued, remembering one of our recent readings.

— Well, here I am, so no need to worry! — Oliver exclaimed, letting go of me and glancing at the table where he had just knocked everything over, — I see you were reading again? What was it about this time?

Oliver approached the table and started cleaning up the mess he had made, and I walked over and began to help him.

— I've had this anxiety all day... so I decided to read what awaits me tonight, maybe something special. — I replied, gathering the cards that had come up for me tonight, — Death, The Star, and Two of Cups... I think something's bound to change tonight...

Oliver fell silent, staring at the cards in my hands with surprise, as if they really had foretold something, something he knew about. His small brows furrowed in sorrow, and he pressed his lips together sadly, turning away. Just then, James, his pet bird, perched on his shoulder, starting to poke at his cheek with his beak, as if trying to cheer him up with these peculiar little "kisses".

— Something wrong, Oliver? — I asked, placing my hand on his free shoulder, noticing his strange behavior, — Do you know something about this?

Oliver hesitated but eventually gave in, realizing there was no point in hiding the truth:

— Fall has begun... it's getting colder... Winter here is harsh, so we're leaving for warmer places. You know, even though our wagons are warm, thanks to their heat-retaining roofs, it won't last through the winter.

— Wh-what...? — I asked, trying to deny what I'd just heard, grabbing Oliver by the hands and staring straight into his eyes, but he couldn't meet my gaze, — Wait...! How long will you be gone? Until when?

Oliver fell silent, unwilling to answer, as if afraid I might break down in tears from the response. But I gripped his hands tighter, and then I heard his answer:

— We should be back by mid-spring... But honestly, there's no guarantee that the community will want to return here. We all stayed longer because of me and my friendship with you. My dad, after all, is the head of the community, and he decided to stay because of me, but he can't keep us here. We are wanderers, one with nature, we want to see new things, we don't want to settle anywhere... so maybe we'll meet again in half a year, or maybe in a few years... I came to spend this night with you... — Oli explained everything, squeezing my hands in return, as if trying to support me, — Let's go for a walk tonight, I'll introduce you to our community. Maybe they'll like you, and we'll come back!

I didn't answer his suggestion... what could I say when all I wanted to do was cry? I had found someone who talked to me despite my appearance, someone who made me laugh, who made me feel comfortable, someone I loved more than anyone... and now this person was leaving, maybe for six months, maybe for years, or maybe forever. I should have expected this, I knew they would leave sooner or later... but where else could I find someone like Oli? He accepted me completely, accepted my strange, as my mother would call them, devilish hobbies... Oliver was someone I could, without a second thought, call my friend. What would I do without him...?

My eyes filled with tears, which soon spilled over and ran down my cheeks in streams... I had never cried in front of people before. I was a boy — I wasn't supposed to, but I couldn't hold back the grief that had lodged in my throat, and so, falling to my knees, I began to weep bitterly, though not too loudly. It was so pathetic, I was nearly a year older than Oliver, yet here I was, crying like a little child in front of him... But I was scared, what could I do...? The Star had deceived me, nothing happy was going to happen... tonight I would lose my friend, my love!

— Fukase... Please, don't cry, I don't want to remember you sad and crying... — Oli said sadly, sitting down in front of me and gently pulling me to his chest, and I, not resisting, rested my head on his chest, continuing to cry, but now listening to his heartbeat, quickened by the tension of the situation.

Soon, my strength left me, and I sank lower, resting my head on my friend's lap. He didn't resist, instead beginning to gently stroke my curls, and James flew over to my ear, nearly scratching it with his tiny claws, then settled right on it, as if he thought it was some sort of nest... he was just as gentle and warm as Oliver, and I didn't resist.

— There, there... no need to cry... — Oli whispered softly, continuing to stroke my hair as I cried, — Everything will be alright... What were the cards again? Did they all really predict something bad? Maybe there's something good?

Oliver knew how much I believed in the cards, and so, remembering the ones I had mentioned, he asked this question...

— The Star... — I replied through my tears, glancing at the card still in my hands, — And the Two of Cups isn't bad either...

— See! The Star predicts something bright, doesn't it? — Oli said with a smile, wiping my tears away with the sleeve of his shirt, — Come on... let's have a good night together! Let's go for a walk! Maybe something good will happen after all!

Gathering my strength, I wiped the rest of my tears with my skirt, shooed James away from my ear, and then stood up with Oliver. I looked at him through teary eyes and gave a small nod. Oli lifted his arms in the air joyfully, thrilled that we wouldn't spend the night in tears, then hugged me again, making my heart race and my cheeks flush with warmth.

Soon, Oliver let me go and walked over to the balcony railing. He climbed onto it and jumped straight onto the tree. Standing securely on a large branch, he extended his hands toward me, ready to catch me.

— Come on, princess! — Oli exclaimed with a smile. I responded to his suggestion, grabbing the bag from the table and stuffing my Tarot cards inside, then climbed onto the railing and jumped towards the tree, soon landing on the same branch where Oliver stood. It shook violently, just like it always did, but Oliver firmly grabbed my hand, pulling me close... he stood right by the trunk, where it was safer. Once the tree stopped swaying, we both moved to the other side of the tree. Oli then jumped again, landing on the tall stone wall that guarded the town, and soon I followed him. And just like that, we were free! Luckily, my house was right at the edge of the town, with a large tree growing nearby, making it easy to slip out of the walls even at night, when the town gates were closed.

Soon, Oli and I were walking through the meadow, full of daisies and dandelions, holding hands, afraid of losing each other in the dark, even though it was quite bright. The moon was shining, but holding hands felt right... we needed to be as close as possible to one another, this was our last chance...!

— Where are we going now, Ollie? — I asked as we began approaching a small forest.

— To meet people! First, I want you to meet my family, and everyone in our community who's still awake! — Oliver explained, setting James on his shoulder as he walked into the forest, still pulling me along.

I tensed up slightly, not ready to meet a bunch of people, but I trusted Oliver and his decisions... We continued through the woods until I started seeing lights in the distance, as if someone had built a big fire. That must be where Oliver's community had set up camp... I could hear laughter, the chatter of men and women. I felt even more nervous when I realized I was still wearing my skirt and various necklaces, but Oliver's community was supposed to be free of such stereotypes, they were all about freedom, peace, and love...!

Finally, Oli and I emerged from the woods into a pleasant, large clearing... Near a small stream, I saw resting horses and two wagons with roofs, with people gathered between them. They were sitting around a large campfire, seated on half-round logs, laughing and talking. Above the fire hung a large pot, one of the women was ladling something out of it into bowls and passing them around... Did I really arrive just in time for dinner? It felt a bit rude, as if I had come just for the food, but Oliver dragged me straight toward the fire.

Soon, a group of three people noticed us: a boy with very light hair and pale skin, a girl with long hair that was pale at the roots and pink at the ends, and another boy with violet-blue hair and tanned skin, sitting on the ground eating from a wooden bowl. The girl raised her hand in the air and waved at us, and soon more of the group began to notice us.

— Mom, Dad, we're here! — Oliver exclaimed, waving his hand joyfully and pulling me toward the fire even faster.

A woman with light, wavy hair and blue eyes, who had been serving the stew into bowls, put the ladle back into the pot and smiled at Oliver, clearly her son. Soon after, I noticed who I assumed was his father — tall, strong, with short brown hair. His gaze was rather stern, which scared me, but his kind smile put me at ease...

— Hello, Oli! And Fukase! — Oliver's mother exclaimed, approaching and hugging her son. When she turned to me, I bowed slightly in greeting, — Oh no, no need to bow! That's not how we do things here! My name is Sweet Ann, it's a pleasure to meet you! Oliver has told me so much about you!

— Yes, and with such admiration! — a bright, cheerful female voice came from my side, and suddenly, a hand was placed on my shoulder, almost as if in an embrace. Turning my head, I saw a tanned girl with red eyes and pink hair, clearly older, but not much taller than me or Oliver, — Oh, you should've heard him! "He reads Tarot so charismatically", "Skirts suit him so well", "His scars are so beautiful", "And he-..."

— No! — Oliver exclaimed, blushing, as did I, — I didn't say that! I didn't!

Oliver's mom laughed, ruffling son's hair, then nodded as if saying "work it out yourselves," and returned to serving the stew.

— Oh, so this is the boy who loves Tarot? — The long-haired girl asked, approaching us with the pale boy.

— Yes, it's him! Fukase! — Oliver replied, wrapping his arm around my waist, — Show the lady your cards, gentleman?

My lips twitched at Oli's playful tone, but I still opened my bag and showed the box with the cards.

— Oh my God! — The girl exclaimed, taking the cards, pulling them out and examining them, — They're so beautiful! So delicate! How much did they cost?

— Um... about... 30 gold coins, I suppose! — I replied, a bit thrown off by her excitement and interest, — Bought them from some traveling merchant...

— No way! You must be rich, huh? — The pink-haired girl marveled, still holding her hand on my shoulder.

— His parents are dukes, I told you already! You never listen to me, Ruby! — Oliver answered for me, looking at the girl with annoyance. Now I knew who she was! Ruby, Oliver's older sister. He had mentioned her a little. According to him, she was a bit rough, fashionable, and not very interesting, at least not to Oliver.

— No fighting, kids... — Oliver's father said with his booming voice, still seated by the fire, — Come, sit down, let's get properly acquainted with our guest!

Ruby and Oliver both rolled their eyes but obediently moved toward the fire, dragging me along. The pair consisting of the long-haired girl and the pale boy followed us. I assumed they were Maika and Hio. Hio was Oliver's older brother, and Maika was Hio's beloved.

Soon, we all sat by the fire, where a few people were already gathered — Oli's parents, of course, a very dark-skinned, clearly strong and tall man with dreadlocks, a man with light brown hair and a beard sitting nearby, and next to him, a short-haired brunette woman, with a younger girl sleeping on her shoulder, with a scarf tied in her hair and large gold earrings. All these people looked at me with interest, making me feel like an exhibit at a show. In the distance, I could also see two girls who seemed curious about who had joined the group around the fire.

— Big Al! — Oliver's father said, extending his strong hand for a handshake, and I responded, shaking it, though it terrified me... my hands were too small and delicate compared to his big, strong hands, and I felt vulnerable, — Nice to meet you! Oliver loves you very much, haha!

At his words, my cheeks started to burn, they turned red, but the flickering of the fire hid it from others. I didn't think it would be good if Ann and Al found out that their son was loved by a boy... though, if I'm not mistaken, they supported the freedom to love and were against violence, so maybe they would accept my feelings for their son, wouldn't judge. But I didn't want Oliver to know... I wasn't ready to tell him... I'd never confessed to anyone before...

— Y-yeah, haha! I love him very much too, he's my best friend! — I said with a nervous laugh, grabbing Oli's shoulder and hugging him in a friendly way, — I'm glad to spend this last night with him, haha... ha...

— You like Tarot cards? — Oliver's brother, Hio, asked, sitting down next to his father along with Maika, and soon that blue-haired boy joined them.

— Uh... yeah, I do readings... I read Oliver's character, and he said it was accurate... — I replied, glancing at my cards, which Maika was still holding and examining with admiration.

— I'm no leader, it's still wrong! — Oliver exclaimed, poking my cheek with his finger, teasing me, while James flew up and landed on my head, pecking at me with his beak, causing me slight pain.

— Oh, Oli, cards are multifaceted! — Maika said, sticking out the tip of her tongue as she handed the cards back to me and gently shooed James off me.

— Haha, that's right! I did a reading for tonight, Death predicted a new chapter in life, and here we are — my best friend is leaving me alone! And as for The Star, it seems they didn't work... that's just how it is...

— Oh, don't lose hope! Maybe The Star were predicting some good event tonight! — Hio encouraged, seemingly having learned about Tarot from Maika, which made him knowledgeable, — Maika also did a reading for tonight, and there were The Star as well! I'm sure it's not just a coincidence!

— But you don't believe in Tarot, Hio! — The blue-haired boy spoke up, scraping the last bits of food from his bowl.

— Oh, Dex, they're just trying to lighten the mood and tell the mourning duke that there's still hope! — The dark-skinned man with dreadlocks spoke up... his voice sent chills down my spine, it was so deep and low, I'd never heard anything like it. Actually, I had never seen a dark-skinned person before, only tanned ones, so this man instinctively made me feel an irrational fear, though he seemed kind, and the golden decorations in his hair sparkled beautifully in the firelight.

— Dex as usual... — the man with the beard said with a teasing smile, sitting next to a dark-skinned man, — Nice to meet you, Fukase... I'm Bruno, and this is my wife Clara. The girl sleeping on her shoulder is Ona, and over there is Maika, Ona and Maika are our daughters!

— Oh... nice to meet you... — I nodded, unsure how to respond to the introduction.

— Oh, yes! — Oliver suddenly remembered, — This is Ruby, my sister, and this is Hio, my brother. I've told you about them! This charcoal here is Asterian...

— Oliver... — Big Al said in a warning tone, — We don't describe people like that...

— It's all good, haha! — The "charcoal", or just Asterian laughed, — No matter how much you explain it to him — he's still a little rebel. He'll grow out of it! Oli and I are best friends, I let him learn to joke on me, though so far his jokes are crude!

Oliver looked away unhappily, pouting his lips, but Asterian gently hugged the boy, clapping his palm on his shoulder, as if telling Oli not to worry about such trifles, so soon Oliver continued to introduce me to the others:

— Over there is Sonika and Avanna, Sonika is in love with Ruby! Then there's Daina, but I think she's not here right now. And this is Dex, Dex and Daina are cousins! And... oh, my Hio is in love with both Maika and Dex, they're all quite the fun bunch!

— Oli, you didn't need to... — Oliver's brother started to protest, but his partners just patted him on the head, clearly unbothered by their... special relationship.

When Oli told me about his community, he never mentioned everyone by name, but I expected there to be no more than ten people. Yet, here there were fourteen... How do they fit in those wagons when they need to sleep? Seven people per wagon, do they sleep all huddled together?

— Haha, fourteen people? How do you all fit, how do you sleep? — I asked, scratching my neck, feeling like my question was a bit silly.

— We don't all sleep at once! Not at the same time! — Clara answered, rubbing her eyes, — We're divided into three groups: one sleeps while the other two keep traveling! There are 24 hours in a day, 24 divided by 3 gives us 8 hours, meaning everyone gets 8 hours of sleep per day, and that's enough! Although Oli often sleeps more because he's still young, and it's good for him!

— Oh... sounds interesting... how are the groups divided? — I asked, trying to show interest.

— In the first group, there's Daina, Asterian, Sonika, and Avanna! They sleep from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Oli began explaining, — In the second group, it's Clara, Bruno, Ona, Maika, and Dex! They sleep from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Then my family sleeps during the remaining time! Our horses eat well, and each group has rest time when the horses can rest and sleep too, so they don't suffer! Tonight is a night for everyone to socialize, so no one is sleeping, but of course, they can if they really need to...

— So your group is skipping sleep?

— Yes, but we're allowed to catch a couple of hours later if we need it. But one sleepless night has never killed anyone, haha! — Ruby said, stretching.

— But someone will die of hunger soon! Sweet Ann, I beg you...! — Dex interrupted our conversation, holding out his empty bowl and looking at Sweet Ann with exaggerated pleading.

— Oh, you rascal! You've already wolfed down a second bowl, gray fox, and still aren't full! — Sweet Ann scolded, playfully tapping his hands with the hot ladle, causing him to reflexively pull them back to his chest, — Look at this, nothing left! I still have uncooked rice, but no pumpkin! Hio! I told you not to eat too much raw pumpkin, or there wouldn't be any left!

— Sorry... — Oliver's brother mumbled, lowering his head in guilt, — That pumpkin was so tasty...

— Oh, don't blame him! I had my share too... — Asterian admitted with a smile, — Just steal another pumpkin from that patch, the town won't miss it! Right, Fukase?

— Uh, yeah... I suppose you're right... — I agreed, glancing around in confusion.

Sweet Ann sighed, lightly tapped the pot with the ladle, and nodded before saying:

— Ugh... Maybe if you ate meat, you wouldn't starve, and you wouldn't eat all of our supply of fruits and vegetables! Fine, go ahead and steal one...! Who's going?

Everyone stayed silent, awkwardly glancing at each other.

— We'll go! — Oliver exclaimed, jumping up from the log and grabbing my hand, pulling me to my feet.

— Kids... — a female voice called from the woods, and a red-haired girl with blue eyes emerged, probably Daina. Her gaze was somewhat mocking and aggressive, and she moved with confidence, making me instinctively squeeze Oli's hand tighter, as if seeking protection, — I'll help carry it, the two of you won't have the strength!

Oliver pouted in frustration, clearly unhappy about having a third person join us, but he nodded nonetheless, and we headed toward the field, with the redhead following behind us. Oliver held my hand, but more roughly than usual, exuding a strange, unfriendly aura...

We continued walking, first through the forest, then emerging onto the field, where my town was visible in the distance. The pumpkin patch wasn't far, already visible, with a cabbage patch and a cornfield nearby, and nothing beyond that in sight. After walking through the grass, which was just short of reaching my knees, we finally arrived at the pumpkin patch. Harvesting was supposed to happen in four days, so Oliver's community was in luck!

— Well, here are the pumpkins! Which one should we take? Let's not pick one that's too big, I don't feel like dragging it all the way back to the fire! — Daina said, looking at me and Oliver, suggesting we should make the choice. Oliver glanced at me, silently offering for me to decide, as if saying, "They belong to your town, you pick!" But it was clear he just didn't want to talk to Daina, seemingly upset that she had come along with us.

— Well... this one looks good... — I said, pointing to a beautiful, medium-sized pumpkin, — And we could take this smaller one as a backup, since there seem to be raw pumpkin lovers in your community, haha!

Oliver looked at the pumpkins I was pointing to, approached them, bent down, and bit through the stems with his teeth, freeing the pumpkins from the patch. Daina came over and picked up the larger pumpkin from the ground, while Oliver placed the smaller one on top, but she clearly wasn't happy about it:

— Hey, you'll carry that one yourself!

— We're going to stay here for a while... — Oli replied, looking at Daina seriously.

— Ugh... then you can bring it back when you return! Good luck, boys! — Daina nodded, turning and heading back.

Oli and I watched her for a moment, but soon she disappeared into the darkness, leaving us completely alone here, in this field, under the starry sky. Oliver sighed, then sat down in the grass, beginning to pick out the dirt that had gathered between his toes with his right hand and James began to help him with this with his beak... Oliver almost never wore shoes...

— Is something wrong? — I asked, sitting down next to him, — Are you and Daina not getting along...?

— No, it's not that... — Oli replied, lowering his head as if ashamed, — I just wanted to spend time with you alone, and she tagged along, so I got upset... And then my folks started chatting with you, but I didn't want that. I just wanted to introduce you, and then spend time with you, just us...

At his words, I felt my cheeks heat up, my toes curled, and a shiver ran down my spine. I wanted to spend time with him too, just the two of us, but I couldn't bring myself to say it out loud...

— Well... now we're alone, right? Everything's fine now... We're alone, in the quiet... no one's interrupting! — I said, placing my hand on Oli's free hand. He stopped cleaning his feet, looked at me seriously for a moment, then, lowering his head again, moved closer to me and, with a bit of force, pushed me onto the ground, resting his head on my shoulder and placing his free hand on my chest, near my heart, as if trying to read my feelings through the rhythm of my heartbeat.

Oliver smirked, then closed his eyes, pressing his forehead against my shoulder. I lay there, unmoving, afraid I might do something wrong... I didn't want him to realize how I felt. Saying goodbye was already awkward enough with these unspoken feelings. It was better to say goodbye with those feelings unshared, rather than parting with the awkwardness and regret of a confession.

— So, what do you think of my community? — Oliver suddenly asked, lifting his head slightly and looking at me.

— Umm... Yeah, they're nice... — I replied, looking around, — Very talkative, haha, I'm not used to that. But everyone's so down-to-earth, I like it. They didn't even pay attention to my skirt, which was nice...

— Haha! Well, of course, why would they? Have you seen how Clara, Maika and Sonika dress? Their stomachs are bare, and they show a lot of skin! And the other girls in our community often wear really open clothing in warm weather, only Avanna, Ona, and my mom dress more conservatively! There's nothing to be ashamed of when it comes to the human body, it's natural... everyone was born naked! Those societal norms are nonsense!

— Well then, go ahead get undressed right now… — I teased, poking Oli on the nose with my finger. James, in turn, started pecking at my knee, as if defending his master.

— Hey! No, it's cold right now! But if you were in our community, and we stopped by a pond to wash...

— You all bathe together naked...? — I asked with a disgusted tone.

— Well... — Oliver thought for a moment, pouting his lips slightly, — Haha, I'm joking! We bathe in our underwear... most of the time... anything can happen!

— You're terrible at joking...

— What, are you jealous? Don't want anyone else seeing me naked, huh? — Oliver laughed, poking at my flushed cheeks.

— Ugh, get out of here! I couldn't care less! — I laughed, irritated, punching Oliver lightly on the shoulder, causing him to roll away from me, still laughing. But soon he rolled back over to me, resting his head on my chest. I exhaled, unable to breathe in again... He was being so tactile tonight, clearly wanting to remember what I felt like...

Wanting to remember him as well, I hugged him tightly, pressing my face against his fluffy, soft hair. Surprisingly, it always smelled nice, despite the fact that Oliver practically lived outdoors... I assumed his community had some good products, possibly brought from other countries. Yeah, that must be why all the members of his community had good-looking hair, at least from what I could see. Mine wasn't any worse, of course, I wasn't poor... or rather, my parents weren't.

— I'll miss you, Oliver... — I said quietly, my fingers tangled in his hair.

— Hey, it's too early for goodbyes, no need...! — Ollie exclaimed, sitting up and looking me straight in the eyes, — We still have... plenty of time ahead of us... We're leaving at 5 a.m., we'll say goodbye then! Or will you want to sleep by then?

— N-no! No, I won't want to! — I replied, sitting up and grabbing Oliver by the shoulders, — No, all I want is to spend this night with you!

Oliver's eyes widened, and then he blushed, as if he hadn't expected such words from me... Usually, I was less emotional and more reserved, even around him, but now this...

— Oh, how romantic we've become, haven't we, Fukase? — Ollie smirked, lowering himself closer to me. I looked away, turning my gaze to the dark, starry sky, too embarrassed to meet his eyes. Or rather, his one eye... for some reason, he was wearing his eyepatch tonight. Maybe because I had told him many times how much I liked how it looked on him, adding a certain air of mystery to his appearance, so he decided to spend our last night in the way that I liked best...

I didn't respond to his words, pressing my lips together... I felt the skin above my upper lip grow damp from the nerves. Oliver had never been this close to me before, and now he was, behaving so strangely, as if trying to seduce me, making me want to give him a gentle kiss. But I couldn't... First, as I'd said, I didn't want to ruin our friendship! And second... I was a coward...

Suddenly, something caught my eye — a faint shimmer in the sky, barely noticeable, and then it disappeared. I squinted and realized it wasn't just a glimmer. It was a star, and it was moving. No, not just one star! Right behind it, others followed, as if someone invisible had cut the unseen strings holding the stars in place, causing them to fall, leaving trails of light behind...

My heart skipped a beat, then started racing. A meteor shower. I had read about it before, heard about it, but I had never seen it with my own eyes. And now it was happening right in front of me. The stars were falling slowly, majestically, as if they weren't in a hurry to disappear, leaving behind thin, glowing trails. I watched them, and warmth spread through my chest, a sense of awe and wonder... It was something so special...

— Oliver... the stars are falling... — I whispered, pointing at the sky. Oliver lifted his head and, his eyes shining with awe, he slid off of me, fell back onto the grass, and began watching the beautiful cascade of stars as well...

I could have watched it forever, forgetting about everything else around me, all my problems. This meteor shower was more important...

— Wow! We need to make a wish... lots of wishes! — Oliver exclaimed, grabbing my hand and looking at me. I glanced at him, not fully understanding, — You've never made wishes on falling stars?!

— I... I've never seen them before... and especially not like this... — I admitted honestly, squeezing his warm hand. Damn, this moment — it was the best thing that had ever happened to me... Around me were pumpkin vines, with their pleasant scent, next to me was the person I loved, holding my hand, and above us, something magical was happening in the sky, something that made me so incredibly happy. Maybe this was what The Star card had predicted?

— You have to make a wish while the stars are falling, then it's guaranteed to come true! And with so many, you can make lots of wishes!

— Oh... can I make the same wish over and over...? — I asked, immediately knowing what I wanted to wish for that night.

— Haha, of course! — Oliver smiled, squeezing my hand tighter, — I think our wishes are probably very similar... so they're bound to come true!

I squeezed his hand tighter too, feeling the tremble in our hands... Yes, I really hoped our wishes were the same. I desperately wanted my wish to come true...

"I wish to stay with Oliver, I don't want to be without him!" — that's what I silently begged of each falling star... Over and over, I repeated it, sometimes glancing at Oliver, and he at me. The night was cool, but all these touches, these thoughts, the light from the stars — it all seemed to warm me from the inside...

We lay there for about 20 minutes in silence, just gazing up at the sky, catching the falling stars with our eyes, as if trying to follow where they went and collect them later when the time came... We held hands, our fingers intertwined... His hands were so soft, I didn't want to let go of them. I didn't want to let go of Oliver at all... I wished to stay with him! I kept making that wish... until the falling stars became fewer, and soon there were only a few left.

— That... that was so beautiful... — I said softly, reluctantly letting go of Oliver's hand out of embarrassment, but he quickly tightened his grip.

— Haha, yeah... I saw a meteor shower once when I was 7 years old. I'm so glad I got to see one again with you! I'm glad to be sitting here in this pumpkin patch and stargazing with you, Fufu... — Oliver said in an unexpectedly gentle voice, then sat up, lifted my hand to his lips, and kissed it like a prince, — I love you...

My heart started pounding wildly, my cheeks burned, and my arms and legs began trembling like they'd never trembled before... I couldn't say anything, I couldn't move either; all I could do was stare at Ollie in disbelief... I couldn't even comprehend what was happening. My feelings were beyond words... Shock, confusion, embarrassment, joy, fear — all of these could describe my emotions, but no, it wasn't that... There were no words to capture what I was feeling in that moment; it had to be experienced!

— O-Ollie... — I finally managed to stammer when Oliver let go of my hand... He moved a little closer to me and placed his hand on my cheek, gently stroking it with his thumb, — I... you... — I stammered, unable to finish.

— I love you, Fufu... — Ollie repeated with a mischievous, self-satisfied grin, making me blush even harder.

Could it really be true?! My feelings... could they really be mutual? Could this be what the Two of Cups card had foretold? I wished I were brave like Ollie, wished I could've said it first, but I couldn't, so, gathering my courage, I could only repeat:

— I-I love you too... I love you too, Ollie! — And then I lunged at Oliver, knocking him onto the ground, hugging him tightly as I pressed myself against his shoulder... I hadn't imagined the confession would happen so spontaneously, — I love you too, Oliver!

Oliver laughed sweetly, then, placing his hands on my shoulders, pulled himself up toward me and gently kissed me on the cheek. I jumped up in surprise, startled by the gesture, took a step back, and tripped over one of the pumpkins, landing hard on my backside. I nearly squashed James, who was sitting nearby, watching our affectionate moment.

— What's wrong...? — Oliver asked in a hurt voice, crawling over to sit next to me, — Are you shy?

— Well, yeah! — I exclaimed, hiding my flushed face in my hands, — Who kisses like that all of a sudden? I wasn't ready!

Oliver went quiet for a moment, then giggled, pulling my hands away from my face.

— You're so cu-u-te! — Ollie laughed, staring straight into my eyes, but I couldn't return the look because I was too nervous, — Haha, you're acting like a kitten, cornered!

Ollie hugged me gently, pressing my head against his chest, and that's when I heard it — a quiet but very fast heartbeat inside... his heart was racing just as much as mine. He was as nervous as I was... But he was so brave. I guess he wasn't raised with the same sense of shame... He was brought up differently, in a special way.

— Come on, calm down...! I'm not forcing you to kiss me, am I? — Ollie exclaimed, patting me on the head, — I'll just ask... Can I kiss you, Fufu?

I mumbled thoughtfully, embarrassed, then turned my head to the side and pointed to my right cheek, indicating that I didn't mind, but only on the cheek. Oliver smirked, nodded happily, and gently pulled me closer, closing his eyes as he kissed me on the cheek with his warm, soft lips. I squeezed my eyes shut, and my hair stood on end from the overwhelming embarrassment.

Suddenly, I started squealing, then hugged him tightly and began kissing his ever-rosy cheeks, tickling his sides. Oliver gasped, then started laughing from the tickling, falling onto his back, and I fell with him, wanting to hug him forever...

— I love you, Ollie! — I exclaimed loudly, pressing my face into his neck like a vampire, as if I wanted to bite him and drink his blood, — You're so cute! You're so adorable!

Oliver kept laughing, hugging me around the back, but I soon calmed down and just lay next to him, hugging him from the side, pressing against his warm body... The night was growing colder...

— H-how long have you liked me...? — I asked, burying my face in his shoulder.

— Hmm... — Ollie thought for a moment, still gazing at the sky, — Maybe... during our fourth meeting! When we made flower crowns for each other... What about you, princess...?

— The same... it was the same for me... — I replied, lowering my head in embarrassment.

Oliver turned to me and snuggled close, then pulled a small flute from his belt and started playing a soft, gentle melody right next to my ear. I wrapped my arms around his back, pressing myself against his chest, and closed my eyes, enjoying the moment... This was our last night together, the last time I could lie in his arms, listening to his beautiful music on the flute. Oliver was warm, soft... I felt so happy with him right now... I was overjoyed that my feelings were mutual, so happy to spend time with my love. I felt so good with him... so comfortable that soon I fell asleep, listening to his beautiful melody in my ear...

The air was cool, but I was warm. The chirping of insects echoed around us, but they didn't bother me... With Ollie, everything felt right, nothing could disturb me... except maybe James, who kept walking over us, and the thoughts of our impending separation.

We lay there together for who knows how long, but at some point, I felt someone gently shaking my shoulder, trying to wake me. Opening my eyes, I saw Oliver, but he wasn't lying beside me anymore — he was sitting up, rubbing his eyes as if he had just woken up too.

— Come on, wake up... time to get up! — Oliver's brother's voice called out as he gently grabbed my hands and pulled me to my feet, — You'll freeze out here, let's head back to the fire!

Like Oliver earlier, I rubbed my eyes and then looked around, trying to understand where I was... my brain was still asleep, but soon consciousness returned, and I followed Hio toward the spot where the community had set up camp. Oli grabbed a small pumpkin in one hand, took my hand with the other, and walked along with us.

— Mom was getting worried, how'd you two manage to fall asleep out there? — Hio asked as we walked.

— It just got cold, so we hugged to keep warm, and it felt so nice that we fell asleep... — Oli replied, blushing, trying not to look at his brother, who clearly noticed but chose not to comment on it.

— You could have come to the fire... Mom already made porridge and now plans to cook some corn! — Hio said, but Oliver frowned, pouting his lips.

— No... — he muttered, moving closer to me and wrapping his arms around me. I blushed but didn't push him away. I liked his hugs too.

Hio glanced at us out of the corner of his eye, smirked, then ruffled his younger brother's hair and kept walking. The three of us continued, and soon we saw the glow of the fire, which seemed to warm us even from a distance... We arrived at the clearing where the community had settled, and this time everyone was sitting together, even the pair — Avanna and Sonika — who had been off to the side earlier. Some people were eating porridge, while others had already finished and were chatting. We approached the fire, greeted by everyone. Hio sat down next to his partners, one of whom — Maika — was eating, while the other, Dex, lay on the ground, clearly suffering from overeating, judging by the way he was sprawled out. I sat in the same spot I had before, but Oliver didn't sit down right away. He let go of my hand and walked over to his father, who was standing nearby, feeding one of the horses. Oli tugged at his father's sleeve, and when Big Al looked at him, Oli whispered something in his ear. Big Al stopped tending to the horse and followed Oliver a bit away from the group.

I immediately felt uncomfortable; I wasn't ready to be among Oliver's community without Oliver himself! I didn't know everything about this group — what if I said something wrong? And without Oli here, who would cover for me? At least James stayed nearby, sitting on my knee, warming up near the fire...

— So, where have you two been hiding? — Asterian asked from nearby, — Hungry, I bet...?

— Ah, well... a little... — I replied, looking down at my feet, — We just walked around, talked, got tired, and fell asleep, haha!

— You two are something else! Couldn't sit by the warm fire, huh? — Oliver's mom said, handing me a bowl of warm rice and pumpkin porridge, — Eat up while it's hot! You like pumpkin, I hope?

— A-ha-ha, I don't know, I haven't had it in a long time... my mom and sister are allergic to pumpkin, so it's never on the table! — I admitted honestly, awkwardly smiling and taking the spoon that Clara handed me, — Thank you...

— Oh, what a polite gentleman! — Clara laughed, covering her mouth with her hand like some "proper lady" I blushed at how she described me, and my face twisted, making a few people laugh.

Finally, Oliver and Big Al returned. Oliver, looking slightly upset and pouting, sat down next to me, placing his hand on mine as if sensing how nervous I was without him. Then, he rested his head on my shoulder, not caring that everyone around could see how we felt about each other. I wasn't ready to reveal this to others, but they would think it rude if I pushed Oliver away, so I was afraid to do so...

— So, Fukase... — Ruby began, finishing the last spoonful of her porridge before swallowing it, — Care to tell us where those scars of yours came from? A fire, maybe an injury?

— That's a very rude question, Ruby... — Avanna noted, sighing at her friend's lack of tact, but Ruby just rolled her eyes.

— Oh, it's fine... — I said, scooping up some porridge with my spoon, staring at it for a moment, — It's just congenital... we call it a birthmark. It doesn't bother me... although, I think my life might've been better without it, heh... Maybe my parents would have loved me more, ha-ha-ha, sorry!

After my pessimistically optimistic comment, I felt awkward and decided to drown out the feeling by finally trying the pumpkin porridge... I hadn't tasted pumpkin in ages, and I didn't really like it much. I preferred boiled cabbage, corn, and potatoes, but despite that, the porridge was delicious! Sure, it wasn't much different from the pumpkin porridge I'd had before, but somehow it filled me with warmth, not just the warmth of eating something hot, but something deeper... Maybe it was because Sweet Ann, who prepared it all, wasn't just a servant doing her duty without care. She was a truly caring co-leader of the community, if I could call her that, cooking everything with genuine love, wanting to nourish and bring joy to her family and friends, not for a reward... It was nice, even though I wasn't the one she was originally cooking for.

— Well, nothing special... It would've been easier for Oliver without his red eye too... — Sweet Ann added, handing Oliver a bowl of porridge, — Hey, who's going to clean the pot and fetch water for the corn?

— I will! — Bruno exclaimed, raising his hand and getting up from the log he was sitting on. He took the pot off the fire and headed toward the nearby stream to wash it.

— Ugh... time for me to rest then... — Ann said, sitting down next to her husband, — The corn's your responsibility, Asterian!

— No problem...! — the man replied, smiling and nodding slightly, — And Oliver's gonna help me clean the corn! As punishment for your nasty jokes, right, my dear friend?

Oliver, hurt and displeased at being forced to work, turned away from the man, but still agreed, nodding his head, making everyone laugh quietly at how childish he was being....

— Fukase... — Oliver's father spoke, and a shiver ran down my spine when he said my name in his deep voice... I rarely heard voices so low and loud, and today I'd probably heard the deepest of them all, — Are you older or younger than Oliver? You two have an 11-month difference, isn't that right?

— Uh... yes... — I replied awkwardly, thrown off by the seemingly random question, — I'm older, I'm 14.

— I see... how are things in the city? How's your family...? — he continued asking, making me even more nervous.

— Dad, you're scaring him with all these questions! — Ruby pointed out, patting her father on the shoulder.

— Don't worry about it, Fukase... — Sonika chimed in, — He always likes to ask questions of newcomers! He's just a family man, that's all!

— You never know, maybe you're a 30-year-old dwarf... — Maika joked, — We wouldn't want to see that next to our little Ollie!

— I don't look like a dwarf... my face is childish... — I replied, watching as James climbed onto the edge of my plate and started pecking at my porridge.

— Yeah, just look at those cheeks! — Oliver exclaimed, grabbing my cheek between his fingers and pulling it slightly, — So baby-like! And those hands!

— Those hands are quite feminine... — Avanna added, looking at my hands. It's true, they were beautiful... quite long, not chubby, but not too thin either, straight, with neatly trimmed and polished nails!

— Well, that's enough! Fukase's a manly man! — Oliver exclaimed, patting me on the head.

— I don't appreciate the focus on my gender, Oli, you know that... — I reminded him, poking him on the tip of the nose.

— Why's that? — Daina, who was half-asleep, asked.

— I just... I'd prefer to be genderless, haha! — I joked, scratching my neck with my nails, feeling the confused stares of those around me, — Um... let's just change the subject! It's just some weird thoughts in my head, nothing more...

— Nothing wrong with that... — Sweet Ann tried to ease the tension, — I suppose it would be quite convenient... wouldn't the world be more harmonious if there were no genders?

— No, I don't want to be genderless! I want to be a boy! — Oliver exclaimed, clearly not grasping the depth of the conversation, — No need to think about it! That's for other universes; here, things are the way they are!

— Well, genderless people would probably be more beautiful... — I replied with a smirk.

— Have you met any? — Big Al laughed, understanding that genderless people didn't exist in our world.

— Sculptures can take on any form, thanks to my hands, haha! — I answered, scratching my head, — I have one such sculpture... although, of course, there are some flaws...

— Oh, so you're a sculptor? — Clara asked, looking at me with interest.

— Yeah, sort of... I can make sculptures from stone or clay... but clay is easier and quieter!

— I'm a wood sculptor! — Oliver suddenly exclaimed without thinking, — Well, not a wooden sculptor, but, you know, I can carve things out of wood...!

— Haha, we know, we know, Ollie! — Maika laughed, glancing at Oliver's wooden flute, which was always attached to his belt... Oliver had told me he made it himself, — Has Ollie ever played for you, Fukase?

— Uh... well... yeah, of course — I replied, blowing on another spoonful of porridge, — Do you... do you all play instruments? That's how you make your living, right?

— Oh, not everyone here is a musician, some are singers, but many of us do play! — Bruno answered, hanging the pot over the fire, — Ollie plays the flute, as you can see, and also a small balalaika. Hio plays the guitar, Maika sings and sometimes plays the harmonica...

— Okay, I get it, I don't want to drag out the list, haha! — I said, not wanting to hear every detail about what instrument each member of the community played.

— Well, we're all creative types! How else do travelers earn a living? — Ruby said, placing a hand on her heart, — I tell people about fashion from other cities and countries! I sell people interesting clothing designs. Sometimes I even sell finished dresses. Oliver and Maika love to sew! Oh, and I also do people's hair in interesting styles from other countries! I practiced on the members of this community!

— Oh yeah... — Hio and Asterian chuckled... I'm guessing Ruby practiced on them. She probably learned how to trim hair naturally on Hio, and judging by Asterian's intricate hairstyle, she must've practiced some complex braiding techniques on him. His hairstyle was so complicated that even I couldn't fully comprehend it. Could some 20-year-old girl really braid something like that?

— What about you, Fukase, do you have any interest in music? — Sweet Ann asked as she salted the water in the pot, while Asterian began shucking the corn, and Oliver, after stuffing the last of his porridge into his mouth, started helping him.

— Well... I play the guitar... but I prefer the ukulele, it's easier to play and smaller, better suited for someone short like me, haha, but I can play the guitar too!

— Wow, you'd be a great partner for me! — Hio said, pulling his guitar out from the wagon.

— You already have enough partners... — I joked sharply, hinting at his non-musical partners, which made Hio blush and shrink back, turning toward his beloved Maika.

— Don't tease our Hio like that, he's sensitive! — Big Al said kindly, patting his son on the shoulder before taking the guitar from him. He handed it to me with a nod, as if saying, "Go ahead, show us what you can do!" Why did he need this? Was he testing if I was worthy of being friends with his son? What difference did it make when I wouldn't see him again after tonight? This was our last night together.

I felt embarrassed but figured it would be wrong to refuse, so I set my bowl with the remaining porridge aside, took the guitar, and placed it on my lap. After thinking briefly about what to play, I touched the strings... Exhaling, I started playing the first thing that came to mind. It was a simple melody, but I couldn't risk playing anything more complex, afraid of making a mistake and embarrassing myself in front of so many people. This was the first time I'd ever played for such an audience — usually, no one cared about my music. My cousin, the only family member who treated me like part of the family, had taught me to play. I felt incredibly strange with all these people watching me, listening to my music... My hands were sweating, and my legs were trembling... It was too much for me; I just wanted to stop playing and cry... but that would have made things even worse, embarrassing me even more. I was so caught up in my anxiety that I didn't even realize I had finished playing...

— You play beautifully! — Clara said after I finished, clapping for me, and soon the others joined in. It was sweet, but I couldn't remember the last time anyone had clapped for me... My stomach tightened.

— Yes, wonderful! — Hio said, extending his hand to get his guitar back. I handed it to him without even looking up, afraid that if anyone saw my tearful eyes, they'd notice, — How long have you been playing?

— Th-thank you... — I said in a quiet voice, unable to speak louder... the words seemed to get stuck in my throat, caught in a lump that, if released, would make me cry, so I couldn't even attempt to speak loudly. I didn't want to cause any drama, — About three years...

Oliver, sitting so close, couldn't help but notice my trembling and deep, shaky breathing... He stopped helping Asterian with the corn and leaned against me, taking my hand and resting his head on my shoulder. Oliver understood that I didn't want anyone to notice my state, so he said nothing, simply supporting me with his touch and embrace... I love him... How I dreaded having to say goodbye to him...

— Are you alright, Fukase? — Asterian asked in his loud, deep voice, sending shivers down my spine.

— Ah! Y-yes, just... a bit nervous! — I exclaimed, scratching my neck from the nerves, — I... I've never played in front of an audience, hehe! Everything's fi-fine...!

— Then maybe you should've refused if it frightens you so much... — Ona suggested, looking at me sympathetically, as if I were some pitiful boy who cried at the slightest glance.

— Sorry... — I replied quietly, lowering my head even further in embarrassment.

— No need to apologize, Fukase... it's all good! — Oliver said, leaning closer and nudging my cheek with the tip of his nose, making me blush from head to toe, and suddenly, all my tears vanished.

— Oliver! — I exclaimed, playfully pushing him away, making him laugh. James, who had been munching on the remaining porridge in my bowl, flew over and pecked my other cheek, annoyed that I had pushed his friend, — I'm being attacked by some yellow creatures — golden James and blondie Oliver!

Everyone laughed, and soon I felt better, relieved that the attention was no longer focused on me and my hobbies. Instead, it shifted to James and how much he resembled Oliver... I felt more at ease, able to just relax, listening to Oliver's soft voice, watching the beautiful fire, and hearing the bubbling of the water where the corn was now cooking. It had been a while since I last had corn — it had only recently grown, and I had only eaten it raw so far, which wasn't bad either. I loved corn in any form!

— Hio's fallen asleep... — Oli remarked when the group's conversation hit a bit of a lull.

— Haha, as usual, he's the first one out! — Maika said quietly, not wanting to wake Oli's brother, as she gently stroked his head.

— Oh, come on, I was just sleeping earlier, haha! — Ona laughed, while Big Al stood up from the log and gently lifted Hio in his arms. Hio was tall, but apparently quite light, especially since he was slim, so it wasn't hard for a man as big as Al to carry him.

Al, with Hio in his arms, walked over to one of the wagons and carefully laid him inside. Hio didn't even seem to notice, continuing to sleep peacefully, mumbling something under his breath.

— Yeah... I'm getting sleepy too... — I smiled, rubbing my eyes and letting out a deep sigh.

— Don't worry... it's almost five in the morning, we'll eat soon, say our goodbyes, and then you can go to sleep in your warm royal bed, right? — Ruby teased, checking on the corn, though Asterian was already keeping an eye on it.

— Uh... yeah... — I replied, feeling sad at the thought of parting, — But not royal, it's...

— I know, I know, young duke! — Ruby interrupted, not wanting to be corrected.

— Alright, alright, no more squabbling, it's corn time...! — Asterian said, opening the lid of the pot and pulling out several long, sharp sticks. Using a fork, he speared one of the corn cobs, lifted it from the water, rolled it in a bit of melted butter, and sprinkled some salt over it. Glancing at me, he leaned forward slightly and handed me the first cob, — The guest goes first!

— Ah, th-thank you... — I said, bowing my head in gratitude as I took the stick and accepted the corn from him. Warm steam rose from it, and it was clearly very hot — I didn't even want to try it yet, as burning my tongue wouldn't have been pleasant.

Soon enough, everyone in the community had their corn, and after waiting for it to cool slightly, they began eating, biting the kernels straight off the cob... In my family, we didn't eat corn like this. Usually, the servants would strip the raw kernels off the cob, cook them, and serve them in a bowl with something else, like mashed potatoes. But these people ate it simply, without any fuss... Their lips were covered in bits of corn kernels, and it seemed so... uncultured... but at the same time, so relaxed... they weren't embarrassed at all...

Watching how peacefully everyone ate, enjoying the juiciness of the corn, I decided to join in and, bringing the cob to my mouth, bit off a few kernels... They were so juicy, tender, and the butter and salt complemented them perfectly.

— Oh, it's very tasty... — I said after chewing what I'd bitten off, glancing at Asterian.

— Of course it is! — Oliver exclaimed, placing his already nibbled corn on the ground, and James immediately began pecking at the leftovers, — It's just corn; it's not hard to cook, but if you knew how well Asterian can cook other things! Though his meat dishes... well, not so much...

— Oh, don't complain! If you like meat so much, then cook it yourself... — Bruno laughed, patting Asterian on the shoulder.

— You don't eat meat? — I asked, looking at Asterian.

— Yeah... I just don't like the texture. And, well, I feel bad for the animals too! Hio understands me, haha! — he replied, tossing his corn cob into the fire.

— Oh... that'd be tough for me... I love meat! — I admitted, awkwardly scratching my head before continuing to eat my corn.

— It'd be tough for all of us! — Daina laughed.

— Yeah, we're all meat lovers here, except for these two...! — Dex agreed, tossing his own eaten cob away.

— Yeah, those two... so different, but so alike...! — Oliver smirked mischievously, causing his father to give him a disapproving look and Asterian to chuckle, — Alright, alright, I'm done...! — Oliver quickly added, silencing himself.

Everyone chuckled quietly and continued finishing their portions, as did I... Those who had finished suddenly stood up and began gathering their things... Was it time already? Were they getting ready to leave? Feeling a pang of sadness, I leaned my cheek against Oli's shoulder, wanting to hold onto the memory of him... I didn't want them to leave... Not just Oliver, but all of them — the entire community. I wished I could spend another night with these people by the fire.

— Alright, let's put the fire out! — Oliver's father said, yawning and stretching, as Sonika and Ruby grabbed buckets and headed to the stream to fill them.

— Is it really time already...? — I asked, disappointed, looking at Oliver, — Oh...

— I'm sorry... — Oli said, standing up from the log where we had been sitting, and I followed suit.

The urge to cry overwhelmed me once again... How was I supposed to live without him...? I love him so much...

— Just don't cry... — Oli said softly, touching my cheek with his gentle hand, — I've been attached to a city girl before, but everything turned out fine. You'll feel sad for a month, but you'll get used to it... I promise, we'll come back again...

I hugged him silently, trying not to think about everyone watching us... No, I would never forget Oliver, and I would never get used to him not being by my side. I love him so much... Maybe I'm young, maybe I don't understand much about life, but I know that I will never forget Oliver... No one has ever been as important to me as he is. Sure, I got along with my cousin, but that was only because I discovered a secret of hers that could've ruined her reputation if I'd ever let it slip due to some argument.

— Fukase... — Big Al called my name from behind Oliver, and we broke our embrace. Oli looked at his father with pleading eyes, and after a deep sigh, Big Al spoke again, — Would you like to... well... join us? Join our community? From what I can tell, you're not exactly happy in your family, maybe it would be better here? And you wouldn't have to say goodbye to Oliver...

Everyone who heard Big Al, which was pretty much everyone given how loud his voice was, looked at him in surprise... then at me with curiosity, waiting for my response. Join them? Leave the town where I grew up, even if not as the happiest child? Become a wanderer, without the comforts my not-so-loving parents provide? No... no, I couldn't do that...

— Oh, that would be wonderful! — Asterian exclaimed with a warm smile, — That way, all the groups would have five people, which would please the perfectionists,ha-ha!

— It would be great! — Maika clapped her hands quietly, — We're always happy to welcome new people!

— Yes, especially someone young! Oliver's so lonely without peers here! — Clara added, supporting the idea.

— No... — I said suddenly, catching everyone off guard as I lowered my head, not wanting to see the joy on my dear Oli's face fade into sadness, — It... it would be too hard for me... I wouldn't be able to adapt to your way of life.

— Oh, don't say that! — Ruby insisted, — We have Maika here, look at how beautiful she is! She joined us when she was 17. You'd think it would be hard for her to adjust, but after three years, she's practically forgotten how she used to live in regular society! And there's Ona too! Plenty of us started late; only Oli has been here since childhood, since he was 5! You'd get used to it too!

— No... I don't think I could... — I replied pessimistically, ashamed of my own decision, — I'm a spoiled rich kid; I wouldn't survive...

— But... but Fuka, please! — Oliver said, his voice full of sadness, grabbing my shoulders, — Everything will be fine, you'll get used to it quickly! Wouldn't it be amazing? We'll love you, you'll see other countries and cultures, it'll be great!

I stayed silent... The others were clearly disappointed by my decision, which was strange since they barely knew me. Why did they care so much? Was it just for Oliver's sake...? Yes, they probably didn't want him to be sad.

— Fukase... — Oliver spoke again, his eyes filled with hope and desperation, but Sweet Ann shook her head, signaling him to stop pressuring me. Oli sighed heavily, clearly disappointed, — Alright, I understand... We'll definitely meet again. Let me walk you home?

— Yes, Oliver, walk him back... — Clara said as she helped put out the fire, — We're just about finished here, so we'll be on our way. Don't take too long!

— That's right! Time to gather up, everyone! — Big Al said encouragingly, clapping his hands loudly, which caused a sleepy Hio to poke his head out of the wagon, — Hurry up, or you'll get lost, Oli... Take care, Fukase!

— It was nice meeting you! — Asterian smiled warmly, ruffling my hair with his large, warm hand.

— Bye-bye! — the others chimed in, which woke Hio completely. He climbed out of the wagon and approached me...

— You... — Hio said in his calm, raspy voice, — Don't cheat on Oli! We'll be back... and I don't want to see you with anyone else...

He was still half-asleep, but his words made the situation no less awkward. Both Oli and I blushed at his comment. Oliver grabbed my hand tightly, and we ran off the clearing toward the town, with James flying after us as usual. Apparently, Hio had figured out the nature of my relationship with Oli... or maybe Oliver had already told him that he was in love with me. He had mentioned sharing a lot with his brother.

— I'm sorry... — I said quietly once we reached the large stone wall of the city, — I just... I really don't think I could handle it.

— It's okay, I understand... — Oliver said as he climbed up the low tree and then onto the stone wall, — It really would have been hard for you...

Oliver held out his hand to me, and I climbed up with his help. Together, we made our way to my balcony. I climbed over the railing while he stayed behind, standing at the edge.

— It's a shame, really... I tried so hard to convince my father, but he kept refusing, and I was so upset... Then, out of nowhere, he offered to let you stay, and I got my hopes up, but it seems the wishes made on stars don't work... — Oli said, placing his hands over mine, which rested on the railing.

— You wished... not to part with me? — I asked, feeling my guilt biting harder at my conscience.

— Yeah... I guess it's safe to admit now that it didn't come true. I don't really believe in that stuff, but I had hoped.

— I... I wished for the same thing... — I confessed, feeling tears welling up in my eyes, — I'm so sorry...

— Don't apologize... we'll see each other again, and until then... — Oliver reached under his shirt and pulled out a small, white plush toy with a simple, yet adorable face. He must have made it himself since he was into sewing, and he had told me before that he sold his toys to children, — Here, take this... so you won't feel lonely. You can hug it when you're sad! Look how soft it is!

Oliver handed me the plush toy, and I gently stroked its tiny head, trying to hold back the flood of tears that were now streaming down my face. James flew over to the toy and poked its cheek with his beak as if giving it a goodbye kiss, making both Oliver and I laugh through our tears... he was crying too.

— Thank you... I'll cherish it... — I said, kissing the back of the plush toy's head, — I have something for you too... I didn't have time to paint it, but I already baked it in the kiln...

I went to my room, filled with various small clay figurines, picked up a tiny, white bird sitting in a relaxed pose, and handed it to Oliver. James, perched on the railing, eyed the figurine with suspicion before starting to chirp angrily, flapping his wings as if trying to scare off the "competition." Oliver calmed him down with a pat and then hugged the little bird figurine close to his chest, tears streaming down his face as he whispered:

— Thank you, Fukase... I'll paint it and treasure it...

We stood there in silence for a while, listening to the morning breeze... Oliver needed to go, but I knew he didn't want to.

— It's time for you to go... Sweet Ann will worry... — I said, gently brushing a tear off Oliver's cheek with my thumb, — Thank you for introducing me to your community... I had such a wonderful time tonight. I'll remember it forever... I'll be waiting for you...

— I... I love you, Fufu... — Oliver said, looking into my eyes.

— And I love you too, Ollie... — I replied, stepping forward. I lowered my head slightly, placed my hand on Oliver's neck, and gently pulled him toward me, pressing my lips softly against his... His lips were so soft, warm, and tender... the most beautiful thing in the world. Touching them was pure bliss for me... I wished this wouldn't be our last kiss, but unfortunately, it was... and now it had ended. I didn't want it to last too long — it would've been too hard for us, just two innocent kids, — Goodbye...

— Goodbye... — Oliver whispered, letting go of my hands and leaving me in the cold of this autumn morning. He touched his nose to mine, closing his eyes, and after a brief moment of silence, he jumped from the balcony to the tree branch, then to the wall, and finally to the ground before running back toward the clearing where his community was waiting. James, who lingered with me for a moment, chirped something at me, pecked my cheek one last time, and then flew off when Oliver whistled for him.

Now I was alone... That was it... the end. I didn't believe we would ever meet again, so for me, this was truly the end...

Sighing, I wiped away the tears that continued to stream down my face and collapsed onto my bed, clutching the new plush toy tightly in my arms. Oliver had used the design from my sketchbook that I had shown him during one of our meetings, so this little character already had a name — Point... I pressed Point against my face, imagining that he was comforting me, wiping away my tears, as I lay there, unsure of what to do next...

Suddenly, the door to my room creaked open, and the flickering light of a candle spread across the room. I turned my head to see my cousin, Flower, standing at the door in her pajamas, her messy hair loose around her shoulders... What was she doing here at this hour? Or maybe she had just come back from another one of her secret nighttime meetings with the maid, Teto, and heard me crying? But I had been crying quietly, and the walls were thick — she shouldn't have heard anything...

— Well now, where have you been, young duke? — Flower asked as she approached me and leaned over, — Why are you crying?

— None of your business... — I replied harshly, wiping away my old tears and forcing the new ones to stop.

— Who was that boy? Wasn't he that traveler who told stories to the kids? — Flower asked, grabbing me by the collar and lifting me slightly. Had she been watching us?

— Y-yeah... that's him... Oliver... — I replied, sniffling, — My... my best friend...

— Sure, "friend"... Don't try that with me, we know each other's secrets now! — she said, sitting down next to me, — So, the traveler went back to his wandering ways, huh?

— Yeah... he's leaving for warmer places with his community... — I answered, starting to cry again, — I can't live without him... my only friend... Ollie-e-e...

She gently hugged me by the shoulder, softly patting it... saying nothing, probably waiting for me to talk when I was ready. We weren't close, but she was kind to me, seeing me as someone who understood how hard it was to be different in society... and of course, she didn't want me spilling her secret about loving women, so she was nicer to me than she might have otherwise been.

— We... we watched the stars fall tonight, making wishes... wishing to stay together! But... but I can't go with him... I'm pathetic! The stars gave me a chance, and I couldn't take it...

— Gave you a chance? — she repeated, listening to me with interest.

— Oliver's community... they... they offered me to come with them... but I can't! — I explained, pressing my fingers into my face, — I... I'm a coward! I can't survive with them! I'm a spoiled duke's son; I wouldn't last in the conditions they live in! I can't... I can't...

Flower stayed silent, watching me with slight surprise... She glanced out the window, watching the last stars of the night twinkle.

— But you wanted to stay with him, didn't you? With your Oliver? — she asked, removing her hand from my shoulder.

— Yes... I'd give anything... — I said, still sobbing.

— Then give it all... — she said, standing up from the bed. I looked at her with fear and confusion, — You're sitting here, crying, because you'd do anything to stay with him, to be together with him... but you're not doing anything, young duke! You think everything will come easy? That maintaining a relationship is easy, that everything will be handed to you on a silver platter, perfectly arranged? Yes, yes, you're the neglected child of the family, with fewer privileges than you deserve, but you live in comfort, without any struggle for survival. Maybe it's time to do something? If Oliver is the most important person to you — how about starting over, for him? You're not sacrificing your life or happiness, just comfort and old habits... maybe you'd even be happier there... with his community. They're free, from what Oliver's stories suggest, not afraid of new things. Go to them, they'll accept you...

I stayed silent, staring at her in shock as I listened to her words... Maybe she's... she's right? I made a wish to the stars to stay with Oliver — they gave me a chance, and I refused... The Star card foretold my happiness, but I didn't let that happiness come true... The Star came right after Death, hinting that change was coming, but with a positive outcome. What am I doing? Fate is giving me every chance, and I'm just rejecting them! I'm... I'm stubborn, cowardly, and spoiled... I don't want to be that way anymore! I want to change! I want to change my life!

— You're not happy here, Fukase... — Flower continued, — You're always gloomy... you can't wear the clothes you love, you can't pursue your passions, you can't receive the love you deserve just because of your appearance. You'd be better off in freedom, in nature, with a community that would accept you... If a soft bed and a warm bath are more important to you than the chance to change everything and find happiness elsewhere — then stay... the choice is yours...

— W-will you... Flower, will you miss me...? — I asked, looking up at her.

— Of course... but you know what would make me happy? Not having to see that sour face of yours every day, haha! — she laughed, poking me lightly in the forehead, making me smile a little, — If you decide to leave — take your savings just in case... and, well... convince them to come back here someday, I'd like to see you again! Think about it... and I'll go sleep until noon, haha!

Flower walked to the door and opened it, stepping outside. But I quickly got up, ran over, and hugged her tightly from behind, wrapping my arms around her waist.

— Goodbye, Flower... thank you for treating me like a person... you were a good sister, even if just a cousin... — I mumbled, pressing my face into her slim back, — Explain everything to the family... I wish you all the best...

The girl smirked, ruffled my curls, and with a brief "Good luck to you, too, Fukase," left for her bedroom. I soon closed the door behind her, left alone in my room. Taking a deep breath, I looked at my hands, thin and trembling, and then clenched them tightly. Grabbing a medium-sized bag, I quickly started packing all the essentials — my tarot cards, my favorite nail polish, a pouch of money, and a change of clothes. I slung my ukulele over my shoulder, grabbed Point in my hand, and climbed out onto the balcony. Glancing back, I took one last look at my room, perhaps for the last time, then exhaled, wiped my tears, and jumped onto the tree, then from there to the wall, and down to the grass, damp with dew.

I'd had enough... I was done living like this... I didn't want to stay in this town anymore, suffocating from all the limitations! I wanted to be free... I wasn't running away just because of Oliver and how much he meant to me; I was running for myself... Flower made me realize I was only staying because I was afraid of change, but I didn't want to stay here anymore! I wanted to be free... to be happy!

I ran away from my old town, from the loneliness! I ran through the field, back to the clearing where the community had camped earlier tonight! Of course, they weren't there anymore, but they couldn't have gone far! Clutching Point tightly to my chest, against my pounding heart, I reached the clearing, and as expected, no one was there... My breath was shallow, I couldn't run for long, but standing still wasn't an option either. I had to choose one of the paths — left or right — those were the only directions that led to roads wide enough for their large wagons. I tried to silence my breathing to listen, but my gasps drowned out every sound...

Lifting my head to the sky, I stared at the stars with tear-filled eyes and whispered softly:

— Please... show me the way...

I was afraid to trust myself to make the right choice... I could have run down one path, found nothing, and then turned to the other, but I wasn't sure if I had the strength for that. Watching the stars, praying for guidance, I remembered the time when Oliver and I had watched the shooting stars together... And just as if they had read my thoughts, one of the stars gave me a sign, falling to the right side. I couldn't refuse... The universe was giving me every chance, and even after I turned it down, it continued to help!

I ran down the right path, chasing after the star that had already disappeared from my view... I ran with all the strength I had left, desperate to seize the chance to be happy! Sure, it might be hard, but the people in that community were so kind to me... I wanted to be with people who would accept me, love me, and whom I could love in return!

And there it was... I saw kerosene lanterns in the distance! They were hung on the wagons in certain spots — it was definitely them! Running a little farther, I could finally see it all clearly! The wagons were moving, and people were walking alongside them! My Oliver was at the back, crying, wiping his eyes... Next to him was his brother Hio, resting a comforting hand on his shoulder, saying something to calm him down. But soon, Hio fell silent, noticing me running behind them, completely out of breath. He patted his brother on the shoulder, kissed him on the temple, and moved ahead, saying something before he left Oliver alone, still crying... My heart broke, but not from running — it was from shame. I made this bright soul cry. I was such a fool, I should have agreed from the start, but it was too late to think about what I should have done... Now, I slowed my pace, trying to breathe as quietly as possible, hoping to surprise Oliver with my sudden appearance...

Finally, I was right behind him... I could hear his quiet sobs... I had to stop this! James, perched on Oliver's shoulder, noticed me and began chirping, but Oliver muttered something unintelligible, clearly not wanting to listen.

Stepping closer, I placed my hands — one of which still held Point — around Oliver's waist and wrapped my arms around him, pressing myself tightly against his back. He immediately stopped crying, freezing in place... He heard my heavy breathing near his ear, felt the warmth from my delicate body, saw my hands with painted nails, saw Point... He knew it was me, but he didn't know how to react. And I, finally catching my breath, leaned my face against his shoulder and whispered into his ear:

— I'm coming with you, Ollie...