Antioch: Step Seven

Zepp stepped forward to reply, but Walden elbowed him to the side and answered confidently. “Just a scrap of paper what drifted in from the west, sir. We think it's most likely just a sweetener packet from some distant coffee shop or Applebee's. Nothing of any great import, but it will be a pain to move.”

“I should think so,” replied Saint Wire thoughtfully, “especially since it's a leaf. Really, boy, your father was a terrible liar and you are the spitting image of him. And the smell, certainly not the faux. Tell me, were you planning to shew us away with your stories and then keep this for yourself?” He then turned to the quieter one as Walden slunk back in shame. “You... What is the truth here? Speak plainly.”

Zepp stepped forward again, no longer afraid of Walden but more concerned with pleasing his elder. His answer came in stammering truths. “It's... it's real sugar, sir. Though you already know that... umm... I knew it wasn't a sugar packet or anything like that, but now... yes, I see that it's a leaf. I guess I was just so excited that I didn't realize it... sorry...”

The elder placed a broad hand on the timid boy's shoulder to calm his nerves, and spoke quietly. “Where did it come from, son?”