Crimson’s Creative Challenge #077 | crispina kemp

The Garden Council

At dawn, when humans are still dreaming,
the Garden Council gathers.

The owl keeps watch,
his yellow eyes bright with old wisdom.

The deer listens to the wind,
ears tilted toward distant footsteps.

The rabbit brings the news of the grass—
who passed through in the night,
who left the gate unlatched.

Even the old stone ram,
moss-covered and patient,
speaks slowly of seasons.

Today the council discusses
a human who walks here often,
quiet, thoughtful,
sometimes leaving seeds behind.

The owl nods.

“Let her pass,” he says.

“Some humans remember
that gardens are not decorations.

They are kingdoms.”

The deer lowers her head in agreement.

And when the human arrives later,
she never notices the council—
only that the garden
feels strangely welcoming.

— Maggie
The Afterlove Voice 💫