Xiao Mei dreamed she had wandered into a sea of flowers.
Color spilled endlessly in every direction, petals layered upon petals, stretching beyond sight. The air itself shimmered with fragrance—sweet, warm, intoxicating. Tiny figures flitted among the blossoms, winged sprites glowing faintly, their laughter light as chimes.
They danced around her, brushing her hair with playful fingers, tugging gently at her curls, pinching her nose before darting away. Every one of them carried a scent so rich it made her dizzy, like honey warmed by sunlight.
Whenever she reached out, they scattered with delighted giggles, vanishing back into the flowers, leaving only a faint trace of perfume behind.
Moments later, they returned.
Again and again, teasing her, circling her like mischievous fireflies.
