I am studying a trail of hooved tracks when I hear the noise. I suppose it should scare me but I have learned that the silence is what should be feared. Not feared, respected. The panther, the anaconda, the crocodile; they all hunt in the shadows and in the quiet. Only once their prey is certain do they crow with triumph. And so the exuberant arrival of a winged mare startles, but does not frighten. I poke my head around the tree I have been resting beneath and widen my eyes. The newcomer is very bright and colorful, like one of the many parrot species that inhabit the trees. I have never seen her before. I know I would remember her outrageous behavior. I stifle a grin unsuccessfully and wonder what mother will think about this newest Amazonian.
"Hello there," I say mirthfully, poking my head out of the foliage. "You needn't worry about the snakes. I think you've probably scared them away."
I move closer, pushing my way through the vines. Although I am only a year old, my whole remembered life has been spent amongst the sisters and in the jungle, and my knowledge of its paths grows with every season. I feel more confident now in leaving my mother farther behind to explore. (although I still need her more than I can say out loud; sometimes I think she needs me too!) My body has filled out more, although I still carry the gangly look of youth and probably will for one more winter. My inexperience shows in my eyes. I am young, and it is all I know.
"Welcome. I am Sette, Lagertha's daughter. She's the Khaleesi here. Who are you?"
I flick my dark tail at imagined flies. One can never be too careful. There are insects here ranging from harmless meadow fly to infectious horse fly, and I am not a fan of itching.
the jungle princess
ooc: Anna, this is how much I love you. I wrote this on my phone. You're welcome.