Bury Me Not

Rakia slunk through the towering trunks of the Mile-High Woods, the forest floor was cushioned beneath her paws as she moved through it, nearly soundlessly. High above, the twisted branches intertwined like a striking mosaic, casting shifting patterns of light and shadow on her fur. But the beauty of her surroundings was lost on Rakia, her icy blue eyes narrowed and lips curled back in a snarl. The sting of defeat still burned in her mind, each step an echo of her wounded pride. How could she have let herself be bested so easily? The memory of the red brute made her blood boil. She should have seen his counter coming, should have been quicker, smarter, better.

A low growl rumbled in Rakia's throat as she quickened her pace, weaving through the dense undergrowth with fluid grace. She needed to get away, to clear her head and lick her wounds in private. Out here among the ancient trees, she could let her mask of calculated control slip away, could give in to the frustration and anger that simmered beneath her skin. Rakia climbed higher into the branches, her claws digging into the rough bark as she pulled herself up. The forest seemed to close in around her, wrapping her in a cocoon of leaves and shadows. Up here, she was untouchable, hidden away from prying eyes and probing questions. Here, she could be weak for a moment- without fear of judgment or consequence. Rakia settled herself on a thick branch, her tail curling around her paws as she stared out at the sea of leaves that stretched endlessly before her. The gentle rustling of the wind through the canopy was soothing, a balm to her battered ego. She took a deep breath, letting the earthy scent of the forest fill her lungs and calm her racing thoughts.

"Rakia Perreau"