Book of Roses-Episode 3 "Boma Park"

It was cool in the courtyard and Strega held her golden cloak tight about her. She wondered where the night would lead and stared up at the moon.

It is sometimes said that the moon drives people to do strange things and not even witches are immune to its madness. Strega shivered and C’zippa mistook the reflex as implying she was cold-which wasn’t it at all.

The two walked for a while then came upon Boma Park. Boma was a large green littered with benches and flowering trees. It was also the home to a number of satyrs; beings like fawns only more animal than man. They were content living in the wild not wearing any clothes and spending most of their time dancing, paying their flutes and sleeping.

As the young lovers entered the park a dozen or so satyrs skipped up to them, playing sweet little tunes on their pipes. C’zippa seemed shy but Strega enjoyed the creatures’ bouncy melodies. However the satyrs soon drifted off and she was left alone once again with the Prince.

Asking if she wished to sit down C’zippa motioned towards a bench. Strega sat and rested her head on his shoulder. He brushed aside her curls and bent to kiss her cheek. Strega turned her head to meet his lips with hers, a movement C’zippa had not expected. The two held the embrace then slowly released each other. C’zippa suddenly looked away, embarrassed it seemed. Strega wondered why. She thought it might be the moon.

She touched his soft cheek and brushed his smooth blond hair with the back of her hand. He caught it, then turned and laughed quietly. They rose and turned back to the palace.

Saying their goodnights Strega and C’zippa parted paths. The prince ascended the stairs to his room and Strega stayed by the door which lead back to her home. She paused, and then decided she was not yet ready to leave. It was late and all of the guests had gone. The palace was huge and she was quite sure she would not be noticed if she looked about for a bit.