Taxi

The passenger is a woman in her thirties. She sits down near the city park and asks for a ride home. Her eyes light up brightly, her face adorned with a bright smile, and Azriel immediately chooses a direction. - From the subbotnik? — The cabbie asks, trying to remember the day of the week. - Yes. You know, I’m so tired! — exclaimed the passenger. - Were there a lot of people? — Asriel asked. - Not very. But a lot of work! — she blurted out. - Are you a volunteer? — the driver asked. - Yes. In general, I participate in all events. I also go to orphanages, entertaining children, — said the woman. - It’s great. And what do you work? — he asked. - I am an artist. The income, of course, is small, but I like it, — said the passenger. - That’s the way it should be. Your work is creative. I don’t have a very creative job… It’s boring driving around the city, driving people around who are probably going to visit or to a party…” Asriel said regretfully, changing the subject. - That’s not true. For example, you’re talking to me right now. I can see that you’re trying to learn as much as you can from me about my life…” At those words, the cab driver’s heart skipped a beat. This woman is unusual. — But don’t worry. I know I can’t tell anyone anything. - It doesn’t matter. Since you know everything, tell me about yourself,” Asriel asked. - Well, I’m an artist, I graduated from art school. I’ll tell you, I have no sins. I’ve always been an honest person. I don’t blame myself for anything. I started volunteering when I got out of high school. Thirteen years now…” she grinned sadly. Azriel was silent. Only a few times over the centuries had he come across 'knowledgeable' people. Of course, he had coworkers, and they had had those occasions as well. There was a certain place set aside for the 'knowers'. They were not allowed to be around ordinary people. They had a rare gift. The cab driver turned the car 90 degrees and drove straight ahead. The woman got worried. - Why did we turn around? — She asked. - I’m taking you to Ard. That’s where people like you live,” the driver explained. - What? I’ve never heard of it,” she said, surprised. - It’s not mentioned anywhere, but it exists. Don’t worry, it’s not much different from the place I took you to first. It’s just not as crowded. Your gift is very rare,” Asriel said. - Well, all right. Take me to Ard,” the woman said, resigned to her fate. - We’re here. Good luck to you,” the cab driver said goodbye. - Goodbye,” the woman said quietly, and walked away into the unknown.