this exchange was nearly as pleasant as the thrumming joyful fulfillment she felt when her heart pumped so hard from exertion she felt it might burst. each witty comment, smirk and chuckle caused a small prickle of pleasure within her and she felt it was something she could get used to. she nods with mock seriousness when he suggests introducing him to himself, and then adds in an extra serious tone.

oh yes. i will. i would suggest however that you don’t call him smelly… or ridicule his swamp… he is a king you know…things could get dicey if you make him angry.

she laughs quietly when he speaks again, expressing his hope to witness some of the running amuck but she wonders plainly if he would be put off by her constant desire for movement. she wouldn’t have to wait long to find out it seemed. as they trailed through the heavy dark curtains of trailing vines and leafy branches a glorious vision unfurled before them. the tang of salt reached her velvet nose and the crystalline turquoise reflected in the darkness of her searching eyes. her breathing grew short with excitement when she felt the sponginess of the lagoon floor give way to the shift of sand beneath her hooves and the beat of her heart quickened into wild thumps she could almost feel. she became nearly airborne, prancing beside him for moment before she let out a breathless whisper.

perfection

with that small declaration she smirked at him, reached out daringly to to let her teeth graze his shoulder, and launched into flight. he would witness the running amuck much sooner than later. she exploded into action, leaping to the waters edge and taking long blissful strides down the beach, each muscle moving in perfect harmony, each heartbeat and breath timed to exaction like the mechanics lurking behind the metal cover of a pocket watch. the movement floods her with happiness and with the fresh wave of joy she bucks wildly before slowing to a floaty trot. she can’t bring herself to slow down further, but turns her head curiously to see if he has decided to participate.