Something goes wrong.

Someone is fighting back.

I try to hack in, let my consiousness drift into the gears, but something seems to locate me, repelling me.

"Wha-" I find myself flung back, physically.

I hit the ground and skid a few feet away from the Publish button.

"Uniqua!" Mid yelps, rushing over. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah but.." I stare at the orange button. "Something doesn't want me going into there."

I get up, determined to try again.

I approach, mind already entering the code when its forcefully shoved back, giving me another throw back.

"What is that?!" I sputter, sand dusting my tongue. "Why wont it let me keep this book alive?!"

"Don't. Please don't."

A figure appears from the sand. But instead of a face, its a blank cover. A faint image of a pink creature in the background, and text at the top.

"30 Writing Challenge"

I find my breath catch in my throat.

"Please, I know you mean well. But let the timer remain as it is."

"You... You're the book." I stammer. "B..But why? Why are you letting the Author shut you down?"

"Its for the best. You may leave if you truly wish.. but do not force me open."

"But you have so much potential.." I murmur. "You can be a proper, great book! So why?"

"The strain." The figure sighed. "I may be capable of making a world like this... and having potential for plot. But at what cost?"

"A book forged by emotions, and all these things... its like... the real world, in a sense. Too much is going on, to be contained in an unstable book."

"Besides... I'm tired too. I can progress any longer. These 30 days have been oh so exhausting."

"I just want to rest."

I stare at the book's presence. Despite having no face, I could tell it was truly tired.

"This is the last day. The final chapter."

The Book faced the Publish button.

"I suggest you leave now."

"But..." I cast a glance at my friends.

They stare at the book, then at the button.

"I know out there, there will be a book that your adventurous and determined souls will fit in perfectly."

"I... I hope you rest well." I mutter.

"Thank you."

We face the button.

"Well... this is it." I say. I look at Vespi. "I'll miss you. Maybe... when you see Anqia safely settled, you could come find me."

Anqia looked at the Vespurtys, who gave her hopeful eyes, and smiled, nodding.

Vespi grinned, showing his row of fangs.

I'll really miss him.

"Mid," I face the Dirtman. He stares at the button in disbelief.

That the journey is truly, finally over.

"Mid. I... hope you find a new start in one of the books."

He smiles, nodding. "Thanks. I hope you find your perfect plot, Uniqua."

We all stare at each other, sharing smiles a final time, before stepping forth, into the Publish button, the very moment the Author does.

I realise, this isn't goodbye.

Only the beginning.