only as of late did his position
extend beyond the superficial.
it was not to say those within
the council were his friends --
more, sources of warmth,
and consistency --
like the nourishing promise
of a stream's current.
uncontrolled, yet constant.
thus, once the mention of a formal
gathering was proposed, plastered
about the council room, he knew
far before he was implored to attend,
that he would be present.
❛ let's not talk about the
none too distant future -- at least, not about
a future without your company. ❜
she would leave, as they all would.
some, into prison cells,
some, into the world.
he knew the difference, somewhat,
more so, in a sense.
a glance downward, a complacent smile,
❛ perfect. -- & thank you, once again;
i will make this up to you, in one way or another. ❜
❛ if we're lucky, by now, that stupid cat will have just
figured out how to lace his shoes,
and we'll leave within the next two weeks. ❜