the venomless snake

Aurelia ventured forth, her steps light upon the newly thawed ground, each footstep sending a soft rustle through the verdant foliage. The scent of spring lingered in the air, carrying the promise of the rebirth of spring- and it just so happened to be approaching her second birthday. Not that she was celebrating. As the taiga yielded to the wide valley, the gradual shift in the season and lengthening day brought her something that resembled contentment She paused at the valley's edge, gazing with casual disinterest at the sheer rock faces as they opened up into the only exit out of the territory. If only …

Not to torment herself with a daydream of leaving, her sapphire gaze swept over the short grasses and lichens, taking in the sight of greenery flourishing with what little warmth and sunshine that had been offered. Freshwater cascades from the thaw adorned the slate cliffs, their trickling symphony mingling with the breath of wind. Aurelia found herself drawn to the sprouting plant life, her interest piqued by the herbs that she recognized. Though there was something she had been searching for, and she couldn’t help but light up when she found it. Milk Thistle. 

But before she could devote any further thought to the matter, a sudden greeting set her entire posture rigid. Aurelia didn't need to turn around to know who was approaching her. The sound of his voice was enough to make Rhazien’s presence known. And she couldn’t help the sudden annoyance spread across her features. She immediately whipped around to face him, meeting his dual-toned gaze with a hard set to her own expression. “Mischief?” She asked- her tone one of sarcasm. “I’m just enjoying the scenery, Rhazien. Is that a crime?” The girl couldn’t help but push back- even if she had made herself untrustworthy when it came to behaving herself.

"Aurelia Veratti"