The height of the splash proved something was different about today’s new arrival.
Several waves of diamond water soaked Link and I . Deni dived for cover. I had stayed over at theirs last night, and reminded them to wear an anorak n case of unexpected new occupants. So glad I did.
A new tang of rotten seaweed filled the room. Orange and black scales ran up towards claws on the end of actual arms. A tail pushed a stocky body around the water, acres of teeth curling from a mouth big enough to fit your head in.
Every so often the new arrival raced up to the surface, lept in an arc through the morning air, then shot all the way back down to the bottom of the holding pen.
The holding pen being the crucial words.
'This one needs a settle down,' Link said. 'Venus, what do you think?'
'What, to calm it?'
'Yes. Seems hungry,so-'
‘Food?’
'Well, yes, food, but which one? Chart is there.'
He pointed to one of the boards tacked up all over the Stitch.
The chart is something we get training on every week. People have whole jobs within the Stitch based on figuring out each animal’s characteristics, and the colour of the diamonds when they arrive. From this we group them in rough ‘dimensions’, and deduct a general idea of what they might like to eat. This chart provides that guidance no matter where you are.
These measurements are something I have worked on before, but under Link's supervision, and meticulous, if long-winded, suggestions. I have never actually chosen myself.
I looked at the chart, my mouth dry. Under the section coloured the same burnt orange as the diamond was a smooth mammal with green scaled arms from a few months back. Massive slabs of processed protein was the suggestion. Big dusty dry lumps we have sealed in long term storage. Perfect for those teeth.
After a successful call to Nate, my prize arrived. The block was musty, and crumbled under my fingers. I launched the meal into the water. At least if this was a mistake, no one could accuse me of not having enthusiasm.
The chunk landed with a smaller splash than before. With both sets of claws the creature grasped on, and sunk to the very bottom of the pool. It nibbled on the block, teeth shearing pieces into an unseen gullet. Link got the lid down, and closed the screws tight with an obvious grin.
‘Looks like….it found a….hobby,’ Deni said.
After we got our new friend in 164, Link took me aside.
‘Good look today Venus,’ he said. ‘You know, if you do decide to stay here another year, there would be a job for you. I’d need to speak to Mr Chamson, but I am sure he would approve it.’’
I sort of laughed off the conversation. Perhaps I should have been more assertive.
Staring to think I might have accidentally set roots down here.
Back at Deni’s again tonight.
Clip: More creatures in blue and red. But what is that thing in the middle? A sign? A button? Are those people on ships? Or travelling to another dimension?