I had found a small group of shabby-looking trees to rest beneath, lying hidden among their skeletal shadows, while basking in the warmth from the sun above. I’m only half conscious when I hear the call—a great, bellowing voice that blusters over the dry desert, and clamors around me until I can nearly feel it in my bones. I’m not used to being in a herd, but it is obvious that this is some sort of summons for everyone on the island. I jump to my feet with little grace, scraping my face and neck against the scraggly branches as I back up with agitated steps.
Ignoring the sting of the fresh, shallow cuts (I’ve had much worse, I try to forget—), I glance around me, trying to ground myself among the vast desert. There is a pillar of fiery light in the distance, and noticing the hazy shapes that seem to flock towards it, I decide that it is likely where I’m supposed to go. One step forward, and then another, and then—do I really have to go? I dread the idea of being surrounded by the rest of the herd, milling together like cattle, with nowhere to run or hide.
What would happen if I didn’t go?
Would it really be so bad?
I shift my weight backwards, biting my lip until I fear the skin will break. Ultimately, after several long moments of wrestling with myself, I trudge forward again. I realize that I don’t really want to find out the answer to my question, and like a lamb going to the slaughter, I force myself towards the crowd.
Unlike almost everyone else already gathered, I do not recognize the tall, blazing stallion that stands at the head of the assembly (although I can tell he is obviously the one directing this meeting). There is something inherently important about him, and if it weren’t already natural for me to do so, I would have lowered my head out of blind respect. Recognizing no one except Najya, I halt behind the others, somewhere kind of close to the russet mare’s side. Still, I don’t think she can see me, so I arch my neck, allowing my hair to fall around me like a curtain. As small as possible.
“Speech.”
I pirouette in the dark
Tired mechanical heart—Beats til the song disappears