"It was mostly roses. And Hannah."

"Ah. Always good for a fuck, that girl."

"It's a real shame she hasn't spread her wings yet. She'd be a great addition to the city."

"Yes, well. You know the rules as well as I do."

"You could always get her in with your family allowance if you wanted to."

"Sure, she's a great lay, but I wouldn't want to live with her."

"And so she remains a berry. How many years is she on now?"

"I think she's on her third decade of berryhood? I'm not sure how long it took her to graduate from being a rose. I seem to remember it was quick."

"She dove into the Blackberry Gardens on her second day, if I recall correctly. She was never really a rose."

"That tallies."

"You should rest, Kumi. You can stop brushing my hair."

Kumi blushes. "Brushing your hair helps."

Ishaza inclines her head. "Then you may continue."

Brush, brush, brush.

"Would you all like to come by to my palace later today?"

"Your 'palace' is a tacky mess."

"Kumi."

"I'm sorry. I'm tired and cranky."

"I predict a phone call in three... two... one..."

A ringing sound emanates from Kumi's robe pocket. She sighs.

"I hate it when you're right. Let me get this..."

She raises the phone to her ear. "Hello?"

"Hello, Kumi?"

"Eva! It's been weeks. What are you calling about?"

"I could just really use a soft fluffy fox to cuddle right now, is all. Intense scene."

"... do you mind if I fall asleep cuddling you?"

"No, that would be perfect. Words are hard right now. I don't want to have to... try."