Fast flowing Determined runs through a deep canyon. Denizens live in the caverns above the river and look down on the deep source. They dive into the waters. They gather algae where it pools at the shores and eat it in soups. They harvest the wavy leaves of Determined water plants that grow heartily at the deepest center of the current. The Determined water plants nourish them and give them strength.
The Determined raft the river with strong arms and legs. The row and climb. Climb and row.
“They are a sturdy people with stern eyes,” says Miss Emeline.
Visitors come to climb the canyon and ride the waves. They arrive from upstream exhilarated by their fast journey. When they leave Determined, they carry memories of trout and eagles.
Determined flows into Lake Fulfillment — ringed by a well-manicured path which leads to homes in the villages. A dock leads to a gazebo at the center of the lake. Here, the council meets, denizens receive honors and celebrate achievements, and petitioners come to meditate and find peace.
In springtime, Lake Fulfillment shines turquoise blue. In winter, sea green light wavers in its depths. In fall, it shimmers with red and yellow light. Maple leaves fall and coat its surface with many fingers.
“O, bright beautiful land!” says Miss Emeline.
Fulfillment inspires poetry. Nearly every visitor writes an Ode to Fulfillment. Stone pillars inscribed with poetry encircle the lake along the path.
One pillar for each thousand inhabitants.
“They say no one leaves Fulfillment. Animalian ghosts haunt it," says Amma-Pom.
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