The obsidian lake shimmered like liquid starlight, its glossy surface reflecting Clematis's androgynous visage - those delicate vulpine features nearly indistinguishable from his beloved sister's. Heliotrope and Clematis were two vivid flowers that were unequally cherished. A wistful twinge lanced his chest as magenta locks fluttered in the midnight breeze.
"Helio won't be joining us."
His melodious voice remained carefully level despite the ache blossoming behind that coolheaded facade. Bright azure eyes found the silhouette waiting by the lake's edge, studiously avoiding their questioning gaze. As childhood friends, they had all vowed to ascend the tree together and explore the world that awaited beyond the village's thorny embrace.
"She's...pursued other paths. But you need not abandon your hopes." Clematis summoned a soft, reassuring smile. "If you accept my escort, I will guide you through the ascent. We can discover what lies beyond together."
The words he'd longed to utter for eternities hung unspoken - confessions of his own yearning to spread his wings without the lingering torment of unrequited love. Heliotrope's chosen had always been his quiet obsession, the warm sun around which he orbited even as it bathed another in its radiance.
But the fates had dealt him a wildly improbable chance.
If this person faltered, he would bear them skyward without hesitation.
For he could never truly be happy until escaping this hollow paradise - could never find true solace until the object of his affections beheld the whole of his steadfast devotion.