Raindrop's Arc

Chapter 9 of 15

With the spire holding and the knots checked, Raindrop climbed the metal tower beside the stage. From the crowned platform at its top, he could see the full shape below. The glowing stones traced a clean oval around the wooden boards. No gaps. The frame was ready. He slid down the spiral stairs and crossed to the jar. The lid hissed under its rope. He pulled a small carved cork from his pouch, the one with a single pinhole bored through the top, and worked it gently into the jar's neck. The pressure eased. A thin whistle of steam rose straight up. Fog rolled in thick across the planks, hiding the oval. Raindrop grabbed a pinch of pepper dust and flung it wide. The fog burst apart and curled away. The stage stood clear, lit, and waiting. He lifted his arms. The drum beat under his feet. The first drop fell, and Raindrop began to lead.