A fictional flock passing through central Madrid has discovered that possessing historic grazing rights is less useful in the modern property market than possessing a guarantor with several flats.
The sheep had expected a straightforward urban crossing. Instead, they encountered a housing argument so familiar that several began wondering whether their own field was about to become a lifestyle development.
An estate agent offered the flock a compact communal space with excellent natural ventilation. On inspection, it proved to be the pavement they were already occupying.
The agent explained that the advertised price was per sheep, excluding cleaning, utilities and the privilege of being described as part of a vibrant neighbourhood. The flock asked whether grass was included. It was not, although a nearby café offered a garnish.
A fictional planning officer proposed resolving the difficulty by distinguishing between livestock and residents. The sheep noted that both groups were being moved around to accommodate a more profitable use of the space.
Their ancient route was eventually adjusted. Officials called this a successful example of managing competing needs. The sheep called it going the long way round.
The flock has returned to rural accommodation, where conditions remain basic but nobody has yet tried to describe a feeding trough as a co-living opportunity.
