Juniper sat on the back porch and twirled a blade of grass between his fingers, his thoughts tangled in the complexities of an idea he couldn't shake: the potential of commercializing the produce he and his plant beasts could grow.
The notion had sparked during his conversation with Demetrius and Yong-Jin. With his abilities and the support of Flora and Fauna, it was clear he could produce a surplus of vegetables beyond what their household needed. The thought of selling the excess was tempting—he could provide fresh, affordable produce to the community, and perhaps even make a name for himself as a cultivator. But the risks Demetrius had mentioned loomed large in his mind.
The ethical concerns were at the forefront. Plant beasts were intelligent creatures, not tools to be exploited for profit. What if others tried to imitate his work and ended up enslaving the beasts to maximize production? He couldn't bear the thought of Flora and Fauna—or others of their kind—being treated like disposable resources.
Then there were the logistical issues. Juniper didn't have the means to distribute large quantities of produce. Even if he managed to find buyers, he'd need a reliable transport system, storage facilities, and a team to handle operations. It wasn't as simple as growing vegetables and selling them at a market stall.
And what about security? The moment people learned about his abilities and the uniqueness of Flora and Fauna, he might attract unwanted attention. Theft, exploitation, or even political pressure could come into play. Would it be worth the risk?
Juniper sighed, leaning back against the porch railing. He had ideas—perhaps partnering with a trusted organization to ensure ethical practices, or limiting production to avoid drawing too much attention—but nothing concrete. For now, the plan would have to stay in his head until he could sort through the challenges.
*
Gio, Demetrius, and Yong-Jin had fully moved in. The kitchen, where Juniper often spent his time, had become a lively hub of activity, with his partners frequently gathering there for meals and conversations.
It was starting to feel like home but the house wasn't quite complete yet.
Daiju arrived with a suitcase, his expression one of both exhaustion and excitement. The moment he stepped through the door, Juniper greeted him with a warm hug.
"Welcome back, Daiju," Juniper said, his voice filled with genuine happiness. "How was the trip?"
"Long," Daiju replied with a slight smile. "But worth it. I've got everything I need now, so I'm officially moving in."
The household gathered to help Daiju unpack, and before long, his belongings were also integrated into the space. His artistic flair was evident in the way he decorated his room, with bold colours and striking patterns that reflected his personality.
Later that evening, as the group settled in the living room, Daiju leaned over to Juniper, his tone casual yet tinged with caution "Hey, Juni, can I ask you something?"
Juniper looked up from the tea he was sipping. "Of course. What's on your mind?"
"There's this advert I've been asked to do," Daiju squinted a little bringing out a small smile "It's for a food brand, and… well, I was wondering if you'd like to participate in it with me."
Juniper blinked, taken aback. "Me? In an advert? I don't know, Daiju.. I'm not really an actor."
"You don't have to be," Daiju assured him quickly, not wanting him to say no. "You're a food broadcaster, remember? That's exactly why I thought of you. You're perfect for it."
Juniper hesitated, his fingers tightening around the teacup. "I don't know… I've never done anything like that before. What if I mess it up?"
"You won't," Daiju said confidently. "I'll be right there with you the whole time. And honestly, the setting of the advert is what made me think of you in the first place."
Juniper tilted his head curiously. "The setting?"
Daiju nodded, but there was a mischievous glint in his eyes. "I can't tell you too much—it's supposed to be a surprise. Trust me, Juni."
Despite Daiju's reassurances, Juniper still felt uncertain. The idea of being in front of a camera in a professional capacity was daunting. But there was something about Daiju's enthusiasm that made him want to at least consider it.
"When is this happening?" Juniper asked finally.
"In about a month," Daiju replied. "We'd have to travel to another planet for it. Elowen — it's got beautiful seaside towns we should have some time to travel around while shooting."
Juniper's eyes widened slightly. Travelling to another planet? It sounded exciting, but also a little overwhelming. He had only travelled a few times already since he came to the interstellar and it sounds like there are many more places to explore.
"Think about it," Daiju said gently and patiently coaxing. "You don't have to decide right now. But I'd really love for you to be a part of it."
Juniper found himself mulling over Daiju's proposal. The idea of travelling to Elowen intrigued him—he'd always wanted to see more of the galaxy—but the thought of being in an advert still made him nervous.
He still wasn't entirely sure if he was ready, but if Daiju and everyone else believed in him, then maybe he could believe in himself too.
''Well putting that aside, now we're all here I think there is something we need to discuss'' Daiju smirked meaningfully
....