A Tale of Survival, Friendship, and Discovery Below the Surface

I can’t recount my entire journey here, there is just too much. What I can say is I was a fool, and woefully unprepared. If not for some friendly animals along the way, I would still be lost in the underground. All I can say for myself is that I had no idea how large and encompassing the animal world is. I was full of confidence and ridiculous ideas. I shouldn’t be too self-critical, but knowing what I know now, it’s hard not to laugh at my preparation and my plans.

My “disguise”

I should make special note here of my current benefactor, Brandon. Without him, I would still be wandering around the labyrinth of the underground. He deserves his own essay on the kindness of animals, but unfortunately that’s not my focus here. I am staying in his city apartment that he insists he doesn’t need very often. He has connected me with all of the functional resources I currently have. I’ve asked him why he helps me and he just shrugs and says you need it. I think he has a vested interest in the magic, and maybe he hopes protecting me will somehow give him insight into why the magic is dwindling? I don’t want to press for too much, too soon.

Brandon on one of his visits to the city apartment

Right now I can only go out at night, disguised as best I can. It works as long as I don’t get too close to anyone. The respite from these four walls and the opportunity to see more of this world is intoxicating, but I have to be very cautious. I can’t risk jeopardizing myself or Brandon, who I have come to think of as a friend. I wonder what he thinks of me?

-JPS