Surprise, surprise

Sagittarius Fallen

Something didn't feel entirely right; Sagittarius found herself growing more curious than necessary. Today, she had wandered farther from home than she had anticipated. Still, she relished the thrill of adventure and the freedom that came from stepping away from the pack's protection. Yet, there was a lingering feeling that she might have strayed too far this time. With age, her adventures seemed to become increasingly perilous. She yearned to follow in her father's and mother's footsteps, believing that the lessons they imparted would be sufficient, wouldn't they?

Today would be the day for her to find out, once and for all, where she stood. Regardless of the outcome, the young female felt a pressing need to grasp the intricacies of life around her, free from the constant safeguarding of her pack. Sagittarius believed her family relied on her not only to survive but also to forge a path for herself and those around her. By all means, she was determined to accomplish that. Yet today, her gaze was fixed on the ground, observing how the terrain transformed from sandy patches to vibrant expanses of emerald and jade grasses. Wildflowers erupted in colors, igniting the landscape like a wildfire. Her ears perked up as the sound of cloven hooves drew nearer, steady and unyielding, but the young one couldn't help but grow more alert when the hog approached her.

Though it wasn't a large hog, the knowledge that it could inflict significant harm was enough to leave Sagittarius feeling scarred. Despite its size advantage, the wild hog's weight would likely slow it down compared to her agility. She planted her feet firmly, signaling that she wouldn't back down, but perhaps she could circle around and attack from behind. The young creature considered her options for a moment, her keen yellow eyes noticing that there were no piglets nearby. Could the hog be young and inexperienced as well? It had to be; there was no other explanation for its behavior—unless, of course, it was simply being territorial. Sagittarius continued to ponder this as she leapt onto a fallen tree, placing herself safely out of reach of the irate animal.

Her ears pressed flat against her skull once again, her body tensed, muscles coiling and uncoiling with anticipation. She refused to back down. No! She would defend her right to be here, just like the foul-smelling hog that kept snorting at her. A low, deliberate growl rumbled from her throat, signaling to the hog that Sagittarius was ready for a fight. With a powerful push, she launched herself to the side. Hackles raised and fur bristled along her back, revealing her small teeth in a fierce display of determination to hold her ground.