Nox

Ashcrows are noisy, and I don't like them. The crumbs were thrown out in the garden, not given to anyone.

• PimkeThose crumbs were bread I baked myself this morning!!
  NoxExactly. That's why it tasted bad.
• BridaIf you crack your hands feeding the birds again, you'll be back at the medicine hall.
  NoxI'm not going. And I told you, I didn't give it to them.

Whenever I say the medicine's bitter, everyone's face changes. So lately I just say it tastes fine.

• ZebainToday half of it was still left at the bottom of the bowl.
  NoxThe cat must have drunk it.
• PimkeThere's no cat in the castle...!
  ZebainPimke. That was the answer this old man was about to give.

From up here, the lights across the plain grow one by one. What I hate most is that I've picked up the habit of counting them.

• BridaGive that count to me as well.
  NoxIf you start counting, your hands itch and you march right out there.
• NowemThe railing must still be worn down only on the left side.
  Nox...You haven't looked at that in years, old man.