9: A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood

Just like in the travel brochure. Photo an alteration of one by James Douglas on Unsplash

“So food just shows up?” I ask again.

“Food just shows up.”

“And tea?”

“And tea.”

“Forever?”

“Well, it’s always been that way. Ever since they hired me. They leave me some food and stuff, but I still have to pretend to grow my own. And consult the stars and the scrolls and whatnot. But yeah.”

“Wait, you’re working for someone? Who? There’s nobody else here!”

She mulls a minute.

“It’s true that I haven’t actually seen anyone in quite a while. And there’s a lot of… of…”

“Eternal blackness?”

“Yes, eternal blackness. Plenty of that about. I can predict the weather for you if you like.”

I step to the door, gazing out at nothing. It’s unsettling, and very tiring for my eyes.

“Yeah? Is it going to be sunny?” I ask under my breath.
​
“Eventually.”