Status Updates From Emisar

‘—with selecting—bright children to send abroad as emissaries. Even among the many in her institute, it would be hard to find one suitable. Smart children who used their intelligence only for themselves wouldn’t do. Neither would those who might have a strong sense of responsibility but no aptitude for languages—Children who could truly empathise with others were disqualified as they’d always be crying in sympathy.’

‘In his youth—was always—ready when—asked who his favourite composer or designer was—what kind of wine he preferred. Confident in his good taste, he had poured time and money into surrounding himself with things —Now he no longer felt the need—Though shoes were still important—‘Oversized dandelions are not chrysanthemums’ —Whereupon the Dandelion Support Association—fired back with—’There is no such thing as a weed—’