Manning's Ferns Part IV
Posted by Martha · Sep 26, 2013
The Woodland Whimbles continued along the winding pathway. Ahead, Nikki swooped and dipped.
"Come on you two! Step lively!" encouraged the hummingbird.
"Now, then, Nikki! You stop that chatter right away! I don't like your route at all, not at all!" Manning retorted, stamping his foot hard on the ground and slowing down to a snail's pace. Sophie patted her heartmate on the back. It was not like him to be grouchy. She took his wing and gently led him onward.
The deeper into the forest they went, the slower Manning walked. Finally he just stopped and simply sat down under a slender maple tree and wouldn't budge.
Leaves fell around them. Acorns snapped onto the ground. The nearby stream played its tune over smooth rocks. Birds flew in and out of branches dancing in the sunshine - the usual forest rustlings a Whimble expected on a beautiful autumn day. Yet, Manning also heard familiar tinkling laughter just ahead to the right.
He raised both his wings. "Do you hear that, Sophie?" he asked leaning forward.
"I think I do, Manning," she replied.
The two jumped up and ran up and over the nearby hill to The Fern Glen where they were greeted by a great gathering of Whimbles, Companions and Friends. Everyone was donned in gardening clothes. With little shovels and spades in hand, each was grinning from ear to ear.
Nikki spiraled down from the sky, her little body quivering with joy. "Do you like it, Manning? Do you?"
Nikki had been busy for weeks asking to "borrow" ferns from Lumenesian gardens far and wide. Many had answered her plea. All had a special place in their hearts for Master Manning. They all knew how he honored The Fern Glen. Lumenesians are known for their gardening skills. Some say they have the "gardening magic" that makes every plant grow happy and healthy. So now the glen was again bursting with every species of fern. Manning's heart swelled. He wrapped his wing under and around Sophie's.
Sophie hugged him and said, "What a surprise, dearest! Everyone has worked together to bring The Glen back to life. We all love you very much, Manning, and want to see you smile again."
The Woodland Whimble bowed to all present. His heart was full and for some time words simply failed him. Elfin Dragon Dahlia stepped forward and spoke, "Manning, we conferred and arrived at a decision. We will all take turns both cultivating and watching this glen. No further harm will come to your favorite forest retreat."
Reaching out to stroke the dragon's silky jewel toned body, the Woodland Whimble found his voice and replied, "All of you have not only restored The Fern Glen but have also shown me the greatest friendship. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I'm ever so pleased."
Cheers filled the crisp air. Hugs were exchanged all around. Picnic baskets appeared as if from thin air. A marvelous time was had by all.
(la fin from The Woodlands - Caelumen)
