The cocoon stood motionless in the middle of the square for hours.
The cracks on its surface remained unchanged; there was no movement, no sound. The only thing present was the dust occasionally lifted from the ground by the wind.
After a while, animals began to appear from within the forest.
Their steps were slow, but their direction was clear. Black fluid oozed from various parts of their bodies. They didn't look at each other, nor did they pay attention to their surroundings.
When they reached the square, they headed directly toward the cocoon without a moment's hesitation.
Upon arriving at its surface, they stepped into the fluid. As their bodies sank into it, not a single sound was heard. They vanished in silence.
Those who followed proceeded in the same manner. They formed no lines, nor was there any confusion. Each one, as if following the one before, reached the cocoon and disappeared quietly.
