Close your eyes...

...and meet me in our special place.

This story contains themes such as depictions of child abuse and implied self harm. Mild jumpscares ahead. Please turn back if you do not wish to see such content.

MAGPIE

...It's that dream again.

MAGPIE

There's a faint ringing in my ears, and the blue sky above is as blinding as ever.

MAGPIE

The dream is always the same, after all, and I've learned to open my eyes slowly.

MAGPIE

And I've also learned to keep perfectly still when the sound of footsteps near.

MAGPIE

There is a woman here, too, she's always here. I don't recognize her.

MAGPIE

But, I feel as if she's supposed to mean something to me.

???

Welcome back, little bird. I was waiting for you for so, so long.

???

Every time I see you, you grow up a little more! If only you were here all the time...

???

Oh, but enough of that! Come, we must check on your wings.

MAGPIE

It's never me. Not how I'm doing, or what I've been up to, or if I'm happy.

MAGPIE

It's always these stupid wings.

MAGPIE

But...oh, no.

MAGPIE

She hasn't seen me since I threw them away.

???

Must you make this so difficult for me?

MAGPIE

She pulls me upright. I can feel her nails digging into my skin.

???

What is this defiance, now? Did I not raise you better than this?

???

Up, on your feet, hurry. You know I don't have much patience.

???

I try pulling my arm from her grasp, but it only hurts more. I stand, instead.

???

See, was that so hard? Now come, let me see...

???

I do hope you've been taking care of them-

???

Where are they, Magnolia?

???

She begins digging and clawing at my back, like the wings are under my skin.

???

But suddenly, she stops.

???

AAAAAAAHHHH!!!!!!

???

Suddenly, the woman's skin starts changing. Dark spots, all withered , and the air begins to smell like something putrid.

???

It took no time at all to recognize that smell was the woman's flesh.

???

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO ME!?!?

MAGPIE

I- I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I didn't mean to—