Autumn had tended her garden for a very long time and it showed. The plants seemed to follow her every move, thirsty for her attention. Vines crept her way, branches curved and heads of flowers turned. They were connected, a part of each other, as necessary a connection as breathing.
Breathing was what she was doing now. She was squatting, wearing jeans and a t-shirt, the toes of her bare feet digging into the moist ground. It had recently rained, leaving the dirt more akin to mulch. It squished and slurped at her feet, making the woman grin. Lifting a hand she moved a few strands of errant hair behind her ear that had escaped from her shoulder length braid.
From here, the center of Illusion Gardens, Autumn could feel the root of every single flora that grew within the magical lines that marked its borders. She could feel their wants, their needs, their joys, and their fears. Some were more calm and less work. Others were loud and demanding, whiney. In that way they were just like people.
Of course the same could be said of all nature - its various degrees and states of life a delicately woven tapestry. It was a work of art and to Autumn the town she called home was the most beautiful of all.
Dez, a fairy gift from the Dreaming Tree, didn't see or think of the world in the same way. Though she was connected it was more of an extension of self rather than a purpose or eternal promise. Autumn had made a vow to protect, love, and nurture the Earth's beauty. This place in particular.
She took in a long, slow breath and closed her eyes as she let it out. Dez's fears were starting to rub off on her. But not just her. The plants felt it and it was making them restless, some becoming contrary and rebellious. That couldn't be allowed to continue.
But what could Autumn do? She couldn't even perceive whatever it was that Dez was afraid of.
Could the Dreaming Tree help? Again? Or would it ask too much this time?
She stood, caught between a rock and a hard place. Someone else needed to be involved but she had no idea who that could even be. Yes, she needed to visit the Tree. Either the Tree or the Dark Lady. Neither option was comforting. Eventually, soon, she needed to decide on a plan of action.
Autumn needed to choose which path to take.