Sparky's Arc

Chapter 10 of 10

Sparky watched the last plate fill and the small creature at the table's end finally smile. The feast was done. But as he turned, he saw rows of cups and bottles glinting under a striped awning, all still full. The drink stand stood waiting, untouched. He waved over a glowing little helper with big eyes, who bounced to his side at once. Together they rolled the pastry cart, now sticky and crumb-dusted, over near the drink stand to mark a meeting spot. Melody Starling caught his look from the stage and nodded. Sparky climbed onto the cart and called out. Guests turned. He pointed at the bright pavilion lined with banners and lamps. The little helper lifted a tray of cups and skipped through the crowd. Hands reached. Glasses filled. Laughter rose with every clink. Sparky hopped down, breathing easier. Every plate fed, every cup poured. Then a tall usher tapped his shoulder and pointed at the sky. More ships were landing, and none of them had a seat left on the ground.