The next evening, Ned headed off to work. Things had been a bit strange. Well, things were always strange; it’s just that they’d been a bit stranger than normal.

Ned was called into his supervisor’s office. “You’ve been doing great work, Ned, and we’d like to offer you a promotion.” Ned was appreciative. “There’s a caveat. This is a top secret assignment and you and your family will need to relocate. We know your daughter has just aged up to a child and hasn’t yet begun school, but if you choose this assignment, she’ll have the best education available. She’ll be able to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian–“

“She’s never mentioned that to me. How do you–” the superior officer waved Ned’s question aside. “Classified. Focus on what’s important: Your wife will be able to pursue her dreams of starting her own farm-to-table business with your help. You won’t need to spend another day away from them, either. No more moves, no more transfers. Of course, your entire family will need to sign an NDA and receive a thorough medical evaluation before final approval. Why don’t you go home and talk with them.”

The next morning, Ned called a family meeting and explained the situation. “Could we have a cat?” Buttercup asked.

“When you’re old enough to care for one.”

“Will we still have chickens?”

“And more–cows, llamas, he says an entire farm.”

“I think this is the Benevolent Watcher looking out for us,” Daisy said slowly. Ned tried not to roll his eyes. Ever since Buttercup’s birth, Daisy was convinced the stories of Watchers were true. “We should take this opportunity.”

“You don’t mind quitting Peters Petals and Pods,” Ned asked. This was a big decision.

“I’m stuck at this level unless I want to go get a degree. Which I don’t,” Daisy answered. “Just think, now that I’ve maxed out my wellness, I could truly meditate in my very own orchard–my own farm-to-table business! Buttercup would have the best education and training–and make friends! Plus, you wouldn’t be working odd shifts, Ned. We’d have time to be a real family!”

Ned accepted the position, and he and his family went in for their medical exams. Everyone did well. “You and your family will be staying here overnight,” the doctor told Ned. “And then, you’ll be off to your new assignment.”

“What have we agreed to?”

This is the end of Generation 1: Daisy. For the next chapter, go to Generation 2: Buttercup.