Collector’s Interlude

The boy sleeps.

The stones resist.

Interesting.

They shelter inside the bag, but canvas does not protect them.

The bond is deeper than expected.

The boy strengthens the stones.

The Keeper guides them.

The stones bind all three together.

Separate, each has limits.

Together, they could become something far more useful.

Kill the boy now and the stones may vanish again.

Take the stones now and they remain unripe.

Take the Keeper and the others will resist.

No.

Better to wait.

Let the conflict finish what the crossing began.

Let the boy and the Keeper gather around the stones.

Then collect all three.

The Collector withdraws into the dark.

Midnight will be soon enough.