“This forest…” Akiko was amazed at what she saw as the two walked through the forest. “It’s so nostalgic…like from inside a dream.”
Yukiko give her a beautiful flower. “Here.” She said. “This is called a Pantalea flower. When it blooms, its fragrance can reach miles.”
Akiko gave the flower a little sniff. “Wow really? It smells elegant. I love it!”
“The blooming of Pantaleas here is the significance of the forest’s life. It is but a mysterious flower, as today it blooms unusually bright. Something historical must have happened.”
Akiko didn’t understand. “Huh?”
“Look at the sky.”
There were a thousand fluffy-coated birds in splendid colors racing through the forest sky. The sunlight filtering through the trees shone so bright and enlightened all the creatures below. It’s like the forest is giving a warm welcome to a princess.
Even the grass on their feet had soft dews that danced to the melody of the sun. It was a spectacular sight – the forest of Pantalea.
Later on, the two sat on a high rock, gazing at the sunset. The striking palettes of fiery shades swirled throughout the sky, as if to mix together memories and emotions.
“It must be a very tough job to watch over all of these, huh?” said Akiko.
Yukiko smiled. “Not really. They’re all pretty much obedient anyway.”
“Oh, I see.” Akiko said. “By the way, where do you sleep at night?”
“Me? I sleep anywhere. This is a safe forest anyway. Only the farther end of Pantalea can be penetrated and touched by normal humans.”
Akiko thought. “B-but how about me?”
Yukiko got up and said, “Come on, it’s getting late. We should set up camp.”
“Uhm…okay.” Akiko said, still with the question in her heart.
