CHRYSANTHEMUM

Night

When the sun sets

Who will withstand the test?

When the cold bites

Who will fight?

When all is black

Who will fly like a lark?

When it goes dark

There is no turning back

Bare your teeth

Show your will

It is time to be strong

Everything takes time. A while had passed and everything had simmered down. No tension, disgrace, shame or whatever interfering emotion that could pop up. The realms were quiet and in control. There was rest.

"Lyric, what do you say we have an excursion to one of the new realms? Get a chance to see how everything is holding up" Chosen asked expectantly.

Lyric had long since healed and was not fearful about going to the realms any more though it had been a journey to recovery.

"I am all for it" Said Lyric cheerfully. An adventure was always welcome.

They found themselves in a rather beautiful place. The birds were singing, critters running about in play, frees flourishing and streams flowing. It was a good day.

"Let us go visit one of my friends, they live near here. He is quite amazing and they cook good food. Plus he has some beautiful children, eight girls." He said with a laugh and a wink. Lyric, coloured up in embarrassment. He knew Chosen was trying to get a laugh out of him but he had vowed to keep himself from what tempts.

"It is fine. Lead the way" he responded. What he would encounter though would leave him shaken.

They were welcomed with cheerful hearts and friendly smiles. When Chosen said girls he should have said young ladies, they were gorgeous. Lyric could all but shut his eyes to not catch a glimpse of them. They ate and drank and all was merry. The afternoon sun brought about something of a drowsing effect. Lyric was struggling to stay up so he opted to go lie in the shade while Chosen and his friend caught up. A cool breeze lulled him and he was soon gone.

He was woken up with a gentle shake. He opened his eyes and he saw a beauty like no other. Her eyes were like pools drawing him in. They were all he could see as she had her hair and face covered, so all he could gaze at were those beautiful eyes. He could not quite place the colour, they were unique. But when the sun light caught them they were a brilliant purple. She stood up from her crouch beside him and he could barely make out her form. He wondered what she was hiding beneath the shapeless robes. He mentally slapped his mind for the near slip up. He would think of more pleasant thoughts.

"You are being summoned inside." She uttered even as she sped up and entered the abode. He followed suit wanting to catch even just one last glimpse of her. For a short encounter as that, she had warmed her way into his heart. He was curious however to find out the mystery behind the covered girl.

"It is time to leave now. We express our gratitude for your hospitality. I shall take into consideration your request and come back to you with a reply. Or perhaps I will send my trusted friend here. He is sure to enjoy the visit back." Chosen bid his friend, even as he gave a slight wink to Lyric.

"I will be glad to have the both of you over again any time. Consider this your home." The host said, with something of a pointed look towards Lyric. Lyric was slightly puzzled at the nature of their conversation as it seems he had been mentioned. He however was in no position to inquire.