As they walk, the trees converge slowly in upon them. Sunlight filters down between their leaves, dappling the forest path and tinging the air with green. Po can hear birds and squirrels chittering and singing overhead; normally he might stop and cock his head to one side, listening to the songs of nature and enjoying its beauty.
But today he has business to take care of; it’s hard to ignore the flora and fauna surrounding him but somehow, he manages.
“That’s good,” he says cheerfully, although he’s only half listening. He shifts his bright eyes to observe his friend, struggling to focus. “How has Delumine been treating you? Do you like it here?”
The forest begins to change slightly the farther they go: it’s becoming less wild, more cultivated. Flowers dot the path they walk down, and it’s even more of a struggle to ignore them. Ipomoea shakes his head slightly. Just a little longer, he tells himself, then you can stop and smell the flowers.
He doesn’t know yet that they’re about to come across many, many more flowers.
”Somnus and I have been talking about you,” he begins slowly. ”We’d like to see you take on a bigger role in the Court; it may be good for you, and we think you’ll be good for the role.” Finally Po stops, only a few steps away from revealing the secret garden, and turns to face Eros.
”How would you like to become our Champion of Community, Eros?”
hearts are breaking
wars are raging on
you’ve got me nervous
i’m right at the end of my rope
hey, man, we can’t all be like you
i wish we were all rose-colored too
my rose-colored boy
@eros
look
we’re finally more than halfway done
”here am i!“
