Byrd opened up the shop as planned, and was looking forward to a day among his books. That was until his first customer walked in at half past ten. “Have you heard the news?” They asked, looking incredibly shaken up and surprised. It was Colitta, the camel. “I... don't believe I have – “ answered Mr. Byrd uncertainly. “What news might that be?” “It's Nine Lives,” said Colitta. “He's been taken sick. He's in the hospital. They don't know whether he'll make it.” Everyone in the Kingdom and the Reservation had been expecting it for some time. Nine Lives had been in the hospital on more than one occasion. He was old and often got sick. Everyone knew that sooner or later, he would die, and yet still, the news came as a shock and a surprise, especially so soon after meeting and speaking with him merely the day before. Mr. Byrd, selfishly, couldn't help but wonder what would happen to their agreement if Nine Lives were to pass away.
