I descended between the branches of the tree, looking for the bird.

A moment ago I was still flying above the treetops, convinced there was nothing in the world more wonderful than the new freedom I had discovered. Now I only wanted to reach the ground.

The bird stood on one of the broad roots. The guardian stood beside her.

Both of them were looking down.

A woman lay on the ground.

She lay on her side, one arm stretched forward. Her hair was spread over the dry leaves, and beside her hand rested the golden fruit, bitten.