An Empress in dark blue sneakers and tailored trousers waits at the bus stop, completely unaware of the snail resting behind her heel. When she steps back, her sole comes down fully — and it gives way instantly, pressed into a thin, damp trace on the pavement. She feels the contact, lifts her foot, and brushes the underside lightly against the ground to clean it. A faint look of distaste crosses her face. Then she composes herself and continues waiting, as if the moment had already passed.