The floor dissolved.
The Kambiatories always collect. Always fairly. Always too late. If you meant a different word or a known reference (like a specific story title), please clarify and I’ll adjust the response. kambiatories
"Can I choose?"
"Trade," it said. "Your lost afternoon for the ability to speak to birds." The floor dissolved
"No. But you already did — when you spoke the word." kambiatories