Chapter Twenty-TwoBy far, Oric and Giza had the most elaborate markings of any Vox that Mariko had yet seen. As Folcrum introduced them, Mariko found it impossible to look away from the ornate tracery that decorated their fur coats.
Typically, Vox sported the painted designs on their scalps, backs, and abdomens…but Oric and Giza were covered in them. Every conceivable shape appeared on their bodies, covering every inch of fur, creating an impression at first of great chaos and then of great artistry the longer she looked.
As Folcrum led her into the gazebo in the heart of the Garden of Yesterday, Oric was the first to step forward and offer his hand. "Welcome," he said as she shook it. "Thank you for coming."
Staring at the crowd of symbols on his black fur, Mariko wondered if there
