Boulevard des Capucines

the leaves. Battered by the wind, eaten without thought by the tumult of locusts thatinhabit the world—yet do we throw ourselves on smoldering fires, that another mayknow the warmth of light; yet do we make a soft bed of ourselves, that another mayknow rest; yet do we swirl in the wind that assails us, to send the fear of chaos into thehearts of our enemies; yet do we change color, even as the season calls upon us tochange. So must we help our Leafbrothers, these Rebels—for so has come a seasonof change upon us." He stood, still, before them, the small fire dancing in his eye. For a timelessmoment, all the world seemed still. The Elders were moved. Without saying another word, they nodded inagreement. Perhaps they were telepathic. In any case, Chief Chirpa stood and, without preface, made a briefpronouncement.