Painting the Clouds

为 云 彩 着 色

By: Jacqui Henderson

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

“Do you love me?” Shock burned through my veins and the world stopped turning as I looked up at her. How could she ask such a question of me? “D, Tell me our story...” She whispered. “You know it already.” I responded. Surprised at her request, I threw a log into the centre of the fire, causing it to splutter and spark. “I know my story, it’s true, but ours is different.” Her voice was firm and the silent request filled the icy air between us. “Kalebra,” I sighed, “Is this how you want to spend this night, this of all nights?” Laughing, she turned to me. “If my world is to end tomorrow, then yes, this is exactly how I want to spend this night of all nights. Tell me our story D, tell it as it will be told by those that come after us." Long ago and far away, in a land where the Outsiders’ cruel rule had brought despair and misery to many, D and Kalebra find friendship, safety, warmth and love. But as with so many things, there is a price to pay.