Gahom spoke to Maya directly.
Small leader. Why do you not fear me?
Maya considered the question seriously.
"I do fear you. Anyone sane would. But fear doesn't have to control me. I can feel it and still choose connection."
*Connection. You speak of it constantly. What makes it so valuable?
"It's the opposite of hunger. Hunger takes. Connection gives. Hunger empties. Connection fills. I've experienced both. Connection is better."
*I have only known hunger.
"Then you've only known half of existence. The empty half."
Gahom was silent.
Then, quietly: *Teach me.
Maya's heart leaped.
"Okay. But it'll take time. Patience. Willingness to fail."
*I have eternity.
"Then we have time."
The first lesson began.