Part 9

Lysa suggested that everyone take a break for the month leading up to the Bosses’ meeting. The group agreed, and soon enough, they all got the hang of Angfroest’s unique rules. The group quickly adapted to the unique customs of Angfroest as they settled in. They discovered that each morning began with an hour of silence, a time for quiet reflection, which AïKa found comforting as she immersed herself in her books. Zephyr and Moki were the first to realize that every fire needed to be accompanied by music, leading to spontaneous songs and playful exchanges around the campfire. Shaya, naturally drawn to this, often took the lead, strumming her guitar while others joined in with soft melodies. As NaïKu and Moki explored together, they came across paths that could only be crossed barefoot, making them slow down and connect with the earth beneath their feet. Eucalyptus found herself drawn to the evening gatherings, where everyone shared personal stories and thoughts, and through this, she gradually coaxed AïKa out of her shell. Zetsu, though usually solitary, discovered a quiet ritual involving small offerings of gratitude before using the water, which resonated with him deeply. And when it was their turn to keep watch under the full moon, each member of the group felt a profound sense of connection to both the land and each other.

Eucalyptus, eager to make new friends, eventually approached AïKa, one of Lysa’s friends. However, AïKa was too absorbed in her books and seemed quite shy, making it hard for Eucalyptus to connect with her. Meanwhile, Zephyr kept up his usual habit of playfully teasing everyone, and Moki, as always, teased him right back in their friendly banter. NaïKu was constantly by Moki’s side—the two boyfriends were inseparable.

Zetsu, who often preferred solitude, spent much of the time alone, though he occasionally joined his boyfriend Zephyr to rest together. Shaya added warmth to the group with her songs, singing for both strangers and her companions.

During their month in Angfroest, the group experienced a range of emotions and adventures. One particularly funny moment occurred when Zephyr challenged Moki to cross the stone paths barefoot while blindfolded. Moki accepted with his usual bravado, but halfway through, he stumbled over a rock and tumbled into a nearby stream. The group burst into laughter, especially when Moki emerged soaked, but grinning, and demanded a rematch.

On a more tender note, Eucalyptus, who had been struggling to connect with AïKa, finally managed to break through her shyness during one of the evening gatherings. As the group shared their stories, AïKa hesitantly opened up about her love for the stories she read, and Eucalyptus listened intently, offering encouragement. By the end of the night, the two were deep in conversation, marking the beginning of a genuine friendship.

There were also moments of quiet sadness. Zetsu, who often preferred his own company, was once found sitting alone by the water’s edge, lost in thought. Zephyr, sensing something was wrong, quietly joined him, and the two sat in silence, sharing an unspoken understanding. It was a rare, heartfelt moment that reminded everyone of the deep bonds they were forming, even in the midst of solitude.

And then there was Shaya, whose songs brought both joy and melancholy. One evening, as she sang a haunting melody under the stars, the group fell silent, each person reflecting on their own dreams and fears. Shaya’s confession of wanting to become a professional singer added a bittersweet note to the moment, as everyone realized the fragility of dreams in a world full of uncertainties.

PART 10