The Valkyrie residence. (Part two)

The door Nine pulled Sam towards led outside. The first wall of the base was near. It stretched in both directions and reached up to the sky which had turned orange to signal the departure of the sun. The gap between it and the building should have been empty, making Sam wonder what it was that she wanted to show him. Then he saw it.

Flower beds rose from the concrete and lined either side of the gap. The plants filling them had a selection of vibrant colors that banished the gloominess of a usually isolated section. Red roses, ghostly lilies, small and unassuming nightshades, pale moonflowers, black dahlias, and more.

The scene stole Sam's breath.

"Are you the one who's planted these, Nine?" He

"Yes." She replied with a proud smile. "It takes a lot of effort, but it's incredibly fun."