THE OUTLAND

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Ten.

The command worked without me, without any instructions. So, will she be able to handle it on her own? Won't die, won't get into trouble?

I again sent Xolotl to the floor, sacrificing another limb and, leaning on the "hole punch" like a crutch, froze in anticipation of the rise of the goddess.

Eight.

And the unhurried, quiet hum turned out to be Manyuni's voice, her victory song.

— Nooooo! - It resounded around us, scattering, throwing on the floor.

Yes, only too late - all the space along the path of the shot has shifted, including both the slab and the stone in it.

The figure of the goddess puffed up, swelled up and in one leap occupied all the available space, as then, during the awakening of her husband.

We'll meet again, soldier. Xolotl promised.

And she disappeared.

Four.

And for the first time in all this time, light peered into the black hall through the walls that had become transparent. And no, the light is not the rising sun, a symbol of victories and hopes.

Far, far t