HARPER
Being back in the Grounds is strange to say the least. He knew the place forward and backward, had lived here for a good deal of time, and yet it no longer feels like home. If it ever truly had honestly. The added factor of the Ascended calling this their land only makes him more nervous, for all he’s plenty friendly with them. It’s something he cannot afford to continue doing with his vow to Safrin and he knows it. It has been some time since Harper has been to war, but the memories are strong, traumatic. Never far from reach. It’s not hard to slip back into that mindset, sequester away his empathy and kindheartedness.
But today is not that day, and the sun is high and warm. The children of the Grounds swarm around in the streets, not far from the watchful eyes of their parents from the vendor stalls. Harper slides into their masses as if he belongs there, jubilant laughter and bright smiles winning him their adoration immediately. Someone has gotten ahold of chalk, and they have created a long and elaborate hopscotch trail down the pathway. Funny how even in different worlds certain things persist. Harper crows with delight and immediately plucks a stone to throw into one of the boxes, hopping over it on one steady foot (acrobat, duh) and careening off down the path with an eager whoop.
But today is not that day, and the sun is high and warm. The children of the Grounds swarm around in the streets, not far from the watchful eyes of their parents from the vendor stalls. Harper slides into their masses as if he belongs there, jubilant laughter and bright smiles winning him their adoration immediately. Someone has gotten ahold of chalk, and they have created a long and elaborate hopscotch trail down the pathway. Funny how even in different worlds certain things persist. Harper crows with delight and immediately plucks a stone to throw into one of the boxes, hopping over it on one steady foot (acrobat, duh) and careening off down the path with an eager whoop.
Can we go back to the world we had?
With a love so sweet it makes me sad
With a love so sweet it makes me sad
