Chapter 1: The Path Laid Twice by Mark M

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Someone or something had been toying with the natural energies that surrounded the village, though there had been no signals, signs or reports of what had cause the anomaly.
Soliel had finished her daily routine when a knock on the door had prevented her from heading towards the hot springs located behind the garden. It was Morise, bearing gifts of fresh cheese and blue wine. Morise was draped in a silk onyx tunic and matching cords. His black tinted loafers were made of imported leather and his necklace and bracelet were magically constructed. Morises' jet-black hair was cropped nice and short, a fashion the youth were slowly catching on. Like many mede men of the time, Morise had impeccable taste. Unfortunately, being mede could attract negative attention, as same-sex relationships were still a burgeoning concept in Mysidia. However, Morise defended his acceptance of his Mediality by stating that, "To be true to oneself is the ultimate act of self love".
"Soliel, my sunshine, you are looking absolutely exquisite", Morise boldly shrieked.
"Oh no my dear Morise. I have just come from my garden and smell like a horse's ass. You, of course, are looking as handsome and as stylish as ever..." replied Soliel. "You are always with the new trends".
"Sunshine, I don't follow trends", rebutted Morise. "I set them. One must always be ahead of the curve".
"Of course, my dear", laughed Soliel. "And that's why I love you. That and the fact that you always make me laugh when you visit".
"Well, this time my presence doesn't just include good humor and a handsome face. I have some interesting information that I had to give to you in person. It's about your attractively bizarre cherry blossoms."
"My cherry blossoms!" replied Soliel, "Oh please do tell. They have been walking up and down my mind all day and it is bothering me so much. I tell you they are beginning to leave tread marks".
"You must not fret so much, my dear Soliel. Worrying causes wrinkles, even on fresh and youthful face such as yours. Anyways, we are both dangerously near to the answer that you are looking for. I was chatting with a colleague of mine, Professor Semlar, at the Academy who did his thesis in herbology and botanical magics. Semlar was under the guidance of Professor D'orsange, a botanical sage-adept who apparently has dealt with phenomenon like yours before and can help us understand what is the matter with your cherry blossoms".
"That sounds wonderful", exclaimed Soliel. "Where can we find Professor D'orsange?"
"Unfortunately, he is a day and a half away. He is the Head Chair of Botanical Magics and Herbology at Midel University in the capital. Do you feel like going on a trip?"
"It would be splendid to leave on a expedition, but who would take care of my garden?" asked Soliel.
"No worries", replied Morise, "Professor Semlar would be more than welcome to take care of your children. He is an expert in plant tending and you won't return back to dead flowers".
"I would hope not", replied Soliel, "If I wanted dead flowers I would leave them to you".
"Ouch.