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Signy [23:10]: I need to wash up first but I’ll be quick

Cora [23:10]: I could draw us a bath, if you want

Signy [23:11]: aren’t you already in bed

Cora [23:11]: yeah

Cora [23:11]: I didn’t say I wanted to sleep

Signy [23:11]: in that case, I’ll be right there

T-Minus 4

Interstitial

Hello, Cora.

Hello, Colibri.

Is it time to go?

No, not yet. It’s still time to rest. Are you resting well?

Yes. Feel me.

I open to you and I feel air sacs filled to a pleasing strain with helium atoms gulped lavishly from the trough. Satisfaction. Sleepiness. A tickle in your lymph. Every cell is fueled. You are sated.

Yes. What is your equivalent?

You open to me and I share a short stack of blueberry pancakes, dripping with sorghum and spread. Scramble, sausage, a cup of chicory and cream. I chew and I swallow and I savor. Airy. Bitter. Salty. Sweet. I fill my cup a second time. It’s noon, and I have nowhere to be.

I do not understand these things.

I know. I do not understand yours.

I know. But pancakes feel nice.

Yes. So do helium atoms.

Is it time for the doctor?

No.

Is it time for training?

No.

Good. I already know how to do the things you ask of me.

You do. You’re very skilled.

I know. Are you here for a visit?

Yes, a short one. I want to tell you about another visit that will happen, later today.

You are visiting to tell me about a visit?

Yes.