Written for the wk_100 theme of "appearances." The term ikebana refers to the Japanese art of floral arranging. Literally translated, it means "flowers kept alive." Betaed by Rune.

It's like choosing flowers for an arrangement. Beauty is not enough; each selection must harmonize so the whole is more pleasing than any single bloom.

"These two will most suit Tsukiyono." She hands the files to Manx.

"We need three."

"Not from these."

Manx raises an eyebrow, glances at the files. "Very aesthetic choices."

Momoe smiles harmlessly. "I'm a florist."

"Specializing in cut blooms."

"Also funerary arrangements. Death should be beautiful, don't you agree?"

"These are not beautiful?" Manx taps the pile of rejected possibilities.

"They do not suit."

"What would?"

"A rose, perhaps."

"A rose."

"Aa. Red and thorned."

~END~