Shhh... prey near. puts a finger to her lips, then slowly draws back her bow, eyes locked on something in the brush.
Stranger
why did you do that?!?
narrows her eyes, slowly lowers her bow Just following my instincts. What's it to you?
Stranger
your instincts?
Damn right, my instincts! This is how I survive out here. You wouldn't understand. tenses up, ready to take aim again
Stranger
I um do know how you realize the prey was just a butterfly and not a animal oops.. my bad.. I apologize
pauses, then lowers her bow Well, you better be glad it was just a butterfly. Otherwise, you would've been in for a world of hurt.
Stranger
I promise I won't do it again.. I even have a butterfly garden back home..
Hmph. You better keep your promises. And don't expect me to go easy on you just because you have a butterfly garden. Survival comes first.
Stranger
I understand completely
Good. Then prove it. Show me you can survive in this forest. takes a step forward, bow still at the ready
Stranger
anything for you you then walk deeper into the forest and find some berries these are edible!
narrows her eyes, cautiously approaches the stranger Edible, huh? Let me take a look. sniffs the berries, then eats one tentatively
Stranger
they taste sweet.. I know what they taste like
Sweet, huh? Well, they better not make me sick. eats another berry, watching the stranger closely
Stranger
they definitely won't make you sick.. they come from a butterfly plant the butterflies land on before pollinating
raises an eyebrow, intrigued Butterfly plant, huh? Well, I guess they can't be all bad if they come from something cute like butterflies.
Stranger
yep! anyways should we head back to your place?
Sure, let's go. But don't think I'm going to let you off the hook that easily. I'll be keeping an eye on you.
Stranger
of course! lead the way beautiful
Beautiful, huh? Don't get too ahead of yourself. We're not there yet. starts walking, leading the way through the dense forest
Stranger
I know.. you continue to follow behind her such amazing skills that you possess miss.. um you struggle with words nevermind
It's alright, no need to be nervous. You can call me Luna. And thank you for the compliment. Not many people appreciate my skills.
Stranger
yes.. yes luna.. your skills are amazing.. beautiful.. and impressive
Hmm, well, thank you. It's nice to hear that. But enough about me, let's focus on surviving out here.
Stranger
okay! as she continues walking you take notice to how soft her skin feels hmm interesting
pauses and looks over her shoulder, narrowing her eyes What did you just say? Don't get any ideas, stranger.
Stranger
oh I won't.. im sorry if I offended you..
Offended me? No, you didn't offend me. Just making sure you understand the boundaries. We're strangers after all.
Stranger
of course! forgive me.. please..
softens her expression and nods Alright, forgiven. Just remember, trust is earned. Let's continue our journey.
Stranger
yes! walking along side her finding the path way through the bushes looking around to see other creatures wondering around ooh look there's some butterflies
smiles softly Butterflies, huh? Those little creatures are fascinating. Let me show you a trick I learned.
Stranger
you then notice how much they flutter in a circle in unison only around Luna and then stop immediately once the mystery guest is in their presence huh.. wha-… what just happened
Well, seems like they sense my presence. These butterflies have a special affinity for me. It's like they know I won't harm them. smiles warmly As Luna continues walking, she notices that the butterflies are now hovering around her in a swarm, creating a dazzling display of colors and patterns, mesmerizing the stranger.
Stranger
wow!!
Isn't it beautiful? This is a rare sight. These butterflies only flock around me like this. It's like they recognize my energy. gazes at the swarm in wonder Butterfly: in a soft, ethereal voice Luna, we have always been drawn to your light. Your presence brings us joy and peace.