as I wandered the forest, the green leaves among, i heard a wild flower singing a song

her age allows her some naivety, though she is generally not the sort to give strangers the benefit of the doubt, and her faith in shamwari as a leader, and an individual, gives her a small amount in confidence in receiving this creature alone. he seems similar to shamwari in some ways, easy going and open, but the way his voice comes out, sliding luxuriously like velvet or silk, makes her shiver. he seems kind enough though, and in decent spirits despite his ailments, so she lets the shiver run over her and then forgets it, especially when he introduces himself as the brother of her leader.

she is glad then, to have the chance to get to know him a little, and to provide aid in any way she can. she also becomes somewhat self conscious, wishing to make a good impression. she still feels bouts of independence, when she wishes to escape to a green paradise of trees and wilderness to disappear into, but a strong loyalty has also grown within her, appreciation for the safe haven shamwari has built. her voice is smooth and sweet, as usual, when she introduces herself in return.

my name is petal and it is a pleasure to meet you kasabian. i’m sure your brother will be glad to see you.

her innocence and gentleness is reflected in the pure ice blue of her eyes and the softness of her demeanor. taking a step toward him she reaches out her dainty russet muzzle to investigate his agitated limb.

i hope it doesn’t hurt too badly… the waters are getting rougher every day that passes and winter storms will be upon us soon.

withdrawing her inquisitively she steps back, feeling suddenly that she may have intruded on his personal space. he, like shamwari…and most everyone else, is significantly larger than she. while she is eager to believe he is as good and kind as shamwari she knows he is still a stranger and could easily hurt her, despite his injury, in such close proximity. this thought passes into her head and out again easily, despite the fact that his tone makes warning bells jingle in her mind. she wonders what has drawn him here.

shall i walk with you? or i can leave you be if you prefer…. i’m sure you know your way around probably better than I do…

this is probably true, though she has a basic grasp on the territory she prefers to stay by the shore, always close enough to hear the water pulling at the sand. it reminds her of the way the wind used to whisper through the trees, raking gently through pine needles and making the tall stems of wildflowers dance. it isn’t a lasting substitute but for now it calms her, and makes her feel more at home.

p e t a l

mare : 3 : perlino dun : arabian mustang mutt : 13.3 : kafkaesque s t o c k ~ l u m b e - s t o c k @ d e v i a n t a r t