Thermock

The second homunculus was a small yellow female.

“Her name is Thermock,” said Derek.

“That’s MISS Thermock to you, loserface,” came a similarly high-pitched voice. Derek beamed at me, ignoring her. “Thermock,” he said, “is the most unique and special being who I have ever created.”

“Why?” I said.

“Because he never made anything before me,” Thermock piped in.

“You know, technically, that’s an insult to you too,” said Derek, deigning to reply.

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Thermock unleashed a chaotic volley of insults, but by then Derek was done engaging with her. He turned back to me.

“Well,” I said, meeting his gaze, “what is she?” I needed to know. She was fascinating. Bright as an egg yolk, more beautiful than a little flame flickering on the end of a match.

“Promise you won’t tell,” he said.

“I’m insulted,” I said. “How long have we known each other.”

Derek cracked a smile. “You’ve known me since I created you. You’re my best friend, Cao Nyut. I trust you, but this is serious business, so promise me.” His forehead wrinkled with concern.

“I promise.”

Derek paused again as if reconsidering the whole thing one last time. Then he shook his head and leaned in.

“Thermock can look into the hearts of any creature. If she sees something she likes, she can take it”– he cracked his fingers – “just like that. She is an aspect stealer, Cao. That’s why I can never let her out of this jar, cruel as it may seem, and you can never tell anyone.”

But a few moments later, both of those things happened.