"There were challenges, yes. And few opportunities. Pets were a luxury few could afford or even want." Why would they? Pets were a responsibility. Food and care that went to them could easily be used on one's self instead. "I find that I get along better with wild animals myself."

It was odd for her as well to share things about herself so freely with a stranger. Yet, she could just as easily had the same sort of fate as Inessa had her life turned out differently. The moment of sentimentality faded soon enough, replaced again by purpose as she took in the surrounding Garden with an intent focus. Without preamble, she sank down onto one knee and drove her fingers into the ground, feeling the soil.