Gossamer kisses from jasmines fluttered in the breeze, swaying along the song of the trees while they skipped along the stream, leaving in their wake ripples colored in laughter upon the water surface. Caresses traveled amidst the sweet scent, and they whispered to the baby's breath, the alyssum, the bluebell, the delphinium, the tulip. A promise blossomed from a kiss. Comfort laced in the caress. All of it embraced the entirety of Laputa.
Human of warmth and automaton of cold stood side by side, tending to the gardens encircling the castle. Of the former, they yearned for nothing as they went about their work, watering, planting, weeding. Gratitude shone from their smiles. Thank you, they said, thank you for the assistance. Whilst their bodies worked, their minds rest assured that they would return home, exuding warmth, gratitude. Love.
Of the latter, they first needed to ask for a favor. To the sun they sought for warmth like their human counterparts, for it was warmth which their beloved plants desired, not the steeled fingers granted to them. But resentment was not in their program. Emotions were not theirs to control. As they did to the sun, they did to the future king, their creator, their source of emotions.
Jasmines danced, and the sun loved.
A human, a single geranium in hand, grinned.
They stood beside the future king. Flower twirling between lithe fingers made of the woods at sunset, the Cheshire Human reined their Attention towards their newest company. There was indeed much madness to consume at the moment, but the most potent was well within reach. It was tangible. One could drown in it. "Dear King, would you care to share your thoughts?"
Before them Laputa thrived. It lived, it shone, despite the fallen buildings on the horizon. Vines choked the southern castle wall, and sunlight filled the gap in the main hall's roof. Beyond lay the scattered slabs of white stone which once housed the many citizens of the flying country. Thin yet elongated white fragments also littered the earth. Ragged cloths lay waste.
But no matter, no matter. There were people bustling in the markets. There were children running through the streets, their watchful guardians not far behind. Human and automaton worked side by side. An absence of suspicion, ill-will, hatred. There was life once more, and it was indeed beautiful.
