Day 7: Shell Worm Matteo realized his mission wasn't just to paint the world, but to wake those who sustained it in silence. As the damp hills began to heave, his heart leaped into his throat. The Shell Worm emerged—not as a monster, but like a mountain that had decided to walk. Its body consisted of plates like giant river stones, with sea-foam green light pulsing in the cracks between them. Matteo tilted his head back until his neck ached. High above, he saw the impossible: wooden windows, flower pots, and laundry flapping on lines. There was a red-roofed castle perched at the very top. People lived there. As the giant lowered its head, a rush of air brought the scent of wet grass and fresh paint. Matteo reached out, feeling the warmth of the ancient scales. On the balconies, people appeared. They didn't scream; they waved with the relief of seeing an old friend. "He is the Restorer!" a voice cried out. Matteo didn’t feel like a legend; he felt useful. The Shell Worm took a heavy, gentle step, carrying entire stories on its back. Matteo watched the gardens drift away, knowing he had finally reconnected worlds that the gray had kept apart.