I paced the room as Nova rested. Slowly I leafed my way through journals kept by the multiple Ruby Licnine who all shared this tiny space.
One of them was dated hundreds of summers ago. It was by a girl, who claimed to be the first ruby Licnine.
This girl called her book 'The Book of Licnine'.
I sat down, careful not to disturb Nova, and began to read.
Dearest Sky Goddess,
I have barely survived the last encounter with the ones who paint stripes upon their cheeks. I pray for your strength to move me forward and complete my duty as your servant and watcher.
I have wrapped myself in bandages and pray to you the bleeding stops soon.
I have observed the birth of a new Licnine. He came from a tree and I am looking after him. I call him Qi, and he is very sweet. I wonder if you might send me another, a female so he won't be so lonely.
He is cuddled to my side right now in our hiding place.
I will leave and hunt for food soon.
