The Rake

The Rake first appeared leaning against a fountain in Cobblestone Square on a Tuesday morning.

No one saw who put it there.
It didn’t have a tag, a note, or any indication of purpose.

Naturally, the townsfolk assumed it was a new resident.

They introduced themselves.
Mayor Llama declared it “strong and silent—a real cornerstone type.”
Spike offered to show it around.

And thus, The Rake became part of the town.

The Rake is, quite literally, a rake—standard garden variety, made of wood and steel, slightly weathered but structurally sound.

It has:

A long wooden handle
Slightly bent tines
No features, expression, or signs of sentience whatsoever aside from the googly eyes someone has glued to its tines

It has never moved under its own power.
It has never spoken.
It has never reacted to anything in any way.

Still, it has never been thrown away, misplaced, or forgotten. It just... is.

Spike insists The Rake is:

Others simply nod politely when The Rake is included in conversation.

Some say standing near it brings a strange sense of peace.
Others claim it gives off “just enough judgment to keep you honest.”

Officially, The Rake has no profession.

Unofficially, it has been:

Declared a “Civic Fixture”
Given a Snowdrift Bay library card (Spike filled out the form)
Once appointed “Honorary Co-Co-Host” of the Bay Chats podcast, during a chaotic recording day. It said nothing. Ratings went up.

Spike (Best Friend): Spike insists The Rake saved his life, though the story varies by retelling. He brings it everywhere—café tables, concerts, even jury selection. He speaks to it as though it’s deeply involved, often interpreting its “reactions” aloud. No one dares challenge this. The Rake remains motionless and, perhaps, quietly judging.
Roberta: Mildly skeptical but indulges Spike’s belief. Once gave the Rake a crystal “to help align its silent vibrations.” It did not respond.
Yorn: Once tripped over The Rake. It did not apologize. He now gives it a wide berth.
Mayor Llama: Once tried to appoint it to a committee. Forgot which one. The paperwork was submitted. It still technically holds the position of “Deputy of Passive Infrastructure.”
Beekeeper Jones: Has never acknowledged it directly, but once set a jar of honey at its base and whispered, “For the still ones.” No further comment.

The Jury Duty Incident:
Was somehow selected for jury duty. No one wanted to admit it wasn’t alive. It sat through the entire trial without interruption. Deliberated with dignity. Verdict passed. No one knows what it voted.
The Library Registration:
Spike checked out books on its behalf. When asked what genre The Rake prefers, he said, “Quiet suspense and long walks.”
The Dance-Off Debacle:
Entered a town dance contest. Did not move. Placed third.

Leans to the left slightly—possibly politically
Seems to show up in places no one remembers moving it to
Once “won” a staring contest with Pierre
Spike insists it “is always upright, never falls over, even in wind.” The whole town knows this is a lie.
Was once painted gold by accident. Never chipped. Never complained.

Favorite Beverage: Freshly squeezed apple juice.
Favorite Cocktail: Moscow mule.
Favorite Colors: Meadow Green.
Favorite Desserts: Yogurt parfaits with fresh fruit and honey.
Favorite Foods: Salads with lots of fresh vegetables and lean proteins.
Favorite Hobbies: Gardening and “philosophizing” (as described by Spike).
Favorite Ice Cream: Rocky road.
Favorite Movie Genres: Spike claims The Rake loves sports dramas and inspirational films.
Favorite Music: Hip hop and rap.
Favorite Part of Snowdrift Bay: According to Spike, The Rake enjoys the peace and quiet of Whimsy Park.
Favorite Qualities: Dedication to its “work” and reliability.
Favorite Sandwich: A gyro sandwich with seasoned lamb, tzatziki sauce, lettuce, tomato, and onion wrapped in pita bread.
Favorite Scent: Eucalyptus and peppermint.
Favorite Season: Autumn, when it feels most “connected to its roots.”
Favorite Sports: Track and field, specifically the javelin throw (Spike insists this is due to its rake-like shape).
Favorite Literature: Gardening manuals and motivational books about finding purpose.
Favorite TV Shows: Gardening programs and documentaries about outdoor living.