'Rainessence – On a Rainy Day' by C. Oulens

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MISSING

Rainessence – On a Rainy Day

The first whiff of petrichor, before the downpour subsumes the drizzle

Muddy puddles splashing laughter

A line of sparrows on the electric line shaking off the rain

Couples with folded umbrellas soaking in the rain

Last seen: a few decades ago, by the Good Old River, before the street learnt concrete manners, before rain needed to be drained, before liberty became liberalisation and every puddle needed to generate revenue.

If found, please report/ return to the Office of Historical Recovery by the Good Old River. A reward approximating a year’s subscription to a top Nature channel is assured.

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Found

Rainessence, exactly where it was lost. Perennial. The claimant should prove their credentials to acquire the same by removing paved surfaces and the expressway above the river, restoring the mangrove ecosystem and providing community infrastructure before attempting the collection.

Note: In case of successful claim, a reward shall be awarded to the claimant for a lifetime free membership of nature-pleasures by the Good Old River.

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