The Bunny & The Silver Tongued Snake
Once upon a time, there was a sweet little
bunny full of adventure. It was difficult for her as she longed to romp freely
in the dense woods or even a meadow or two, getting into mischief with forestry
animals such as deer and chipmunks, squirrels and elk. She didn't belong in the
swamps with alligators and crocodiles, Black Panther and snakes. The toads were
ok but their croaking would keep her awake for hours on end. After she lost her
bunny family, she would just hop and hop all day long mostly alone in the saw
grass away from the canals where the evil crocs took their naps in the hot sun.
Bunnies were supposed to live in groups not wander alone as her fate had been.
At that moment, she decided to take charge of her life and go forth and meet
others to keep her company. One day, late in the evening, she wandered to that
part of the Glades where all sorts of species would gather to socialize. She
usually avoided this little patch as she knew that some of the ones that
congregated there could be slovenly and cruel. Being the adventurous sort, she
had to take a peek at the activity and hoped she meet some new friends to
alleviate some of her boredom in that awful swap. She hopped to the front of
the gathering, ears all perky and pink and stood silently till the silver tongued
snake asked if anyone was selling anything today. She gave it some thought,
decided she had a few extra things and could perhaps make enough money to head
North or West anywhere but the South where she was now standing. He was a
handsome guy for a snake...kind of trim, fit with the blackest eyes she had
ever seen. She stood on her hind legs as she spoke.“I have the items you are
looking for snake eyes ", she blurted out in her bravest voice.”Oh do you
now Miss beach Bunny?” was his quick reply.
"If you would just follow me to my
burrow, I am sure you will be satisfied." She whispered softly. As quickly
as the words left her lips, she could hear her Mother's warnings. “Never trust
the snakes, especially the silver tongued ones. They will smile at you and when
you least expect it, dig their fangs into your soft flesh and send poison
through your delicate body. Even if you survive their bite, you will never
forget the pain it caused". Surely this handsome, charming creature was
not the slippery, sneaky, slimy one of her Mother's proclamation. He seemed
friendly enough and besides, it wasn't like she was going to continue spending
time in his acquaintance. Just sell him the items and be gone, she reassured
herself. So off they went...she was hopping and he slithered along the ground
at her side. They managed to make small talk along the way and hardly noticed
that the sun had set and night had befallen the Sea of Grass.
Enjoyed reading that and cant wait for the next installment...what will become of this naive bunny?
ReplyDeleteI don't want to interrupt the story but I have to comment, wow what a great story. It sounds like the bunny has been on quite an adventure already. I can't wait to keep reading and see what happens as the bunny goes. She's definitely maturing as the story goes.
DeleteMany hours had passed as they happily chatted about everything and nothing all at the same time. He had a wealth of knowledge (or so it seemed at the time) and spewed off trivia facts as easily as he spoke. About half way through the conversation, the bunny casually asked. "Are you married Snake eyes?" Now what ever possessed her to ask such a personal question in the first place, she had no idea. Perhaps it was because she felt so at ease with this slithery snake and wanted to know if their chance meeting would happen again sometime in the future. "Ya I am", he cockily replied. "Why does that make a difference?" "No , No of course not" , she hastily answered. Then quickly added, " Why should it"? Thinking to herself, I'll probably never even see him again unless of course I go back to that meeting place where everyone seemed to gather. But they did meet..Many , many times after that first encounter. Their friendship seemed to have a depth of it's own. Soon they were meeting all hours of the night in secret, hidden nooks of the quiet forest. One day he casually announced that he and his family were heading back to the Mid- West where his family lived. Perhaps she might like to make the long journey to see the beautiful rivers and streams, forests with tall trees and many species of animals that she had never seen. His special patch of woods wasn't far from the hills where the wineries stood and a beautiful sight to behold. She tweaked her cute bunny nose as if to smell the swamp air and help her to make a decision. "You will have to follow behind as to not stir suspicion of course as I will be traveling with my lovely wife ", he added. The undertones were evident even in those early stages, but her fondness for him overshadowed her good sense. She nodded in agreement and assured him that she would remain hidden in the underbrush of the woods as they embarked on their journey. "I shall meet you at the first light of dawn, where the river flows through the Indian village", she stated to him. Her heart beat quickened as she thought of the adventurous, long journey ahead. with a flick of her tail and a hop of her feet off she ran to prepare for her departure. Lying awake in the wee hours of the morning, she questioned her sanity yet knew in her heart she had to go or else for the rest of her life, she would continue to wonder what if she had chosen not to follow her dream.
ReplyDeleteThe journey took many days and she huddled alone in the darkness as he lay with his family nearby. He seemed to find endless times to meet with her, recounting many stories and sharing his love of music. Sometimes in his words, she would feel the razor sharpness of his fangs but the smooth manner in which he spoke clouded her judgement and washed away her doubts. When they arrived at his forest, it seemed as though their time spent together dwindled away. There were less and less encounters as he claimed he was very busy now doing this or that. Patiently she waited for him to return to the time they had once spent together in the swamps. This, however was not to be. When they did meet, he always seemed preoccupied with other thoughts and their conversation was seemingly strained. On the rare occasion that they did talk, he tried to reassure her that nothing had changed between them. In the depths of her heart, she knew this was not the truth. Something had indeed changed and he no longer made the effort to spend time together as they had done in the past. She tried to deny this at first but it was then she remember the words her Mother had whispered long ago. Though his fangs had not pierced her skin, her heart and soul suffered the bruises. If she tried to discuss this with him, he quickly avoided the discussion. Early on, he seemed so interested in all she thought, felt and wanted. Now, she was ignored as to her feelings and desires. everything was about him. His needs, his time, his stress and she was silenced in her words. With a broken heart and damaged soul, she lay alone in the depth of the unfamiliar forest. Food was scarce as winter was slowly approaching. She was a Southern bunny with the nick name Beach Bunny what did she know of the impending winter? Soon the ground froze and even her fine coat couldn't keep her warm. Her tiny, delicate frame withered away and unable to hunt for food, she lay lifeless on the bed of dead leaves. She closed her tearful eyes and said a silent prayer and a final goodbye to snake eyes in her mind. Although her body quivered from the cold , nothing compared to the pain she felt from the fangs he had pierced in her soul.
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ReplyDelete....to be continued
ReplyDeleteAs her consciousness waned, her final thoughts were of a handsome Prince, coming to her rescue as she recalled all the tales her Mom had recited to her as she lay in her warm embrace. Tears welled in her eyes, as she knew she would never find the undying love of a caring Prince and recalled all the warty frogs she had kissed during her pursuit of happiness.
ReplyDeleteNot far from the place where poor bunny was struggling to stay alive there was a log cabin. It was plain to say the least but had character and suggested dependability. Outside a fire had been lit to provide a source of warmth in such harsh and cold condition that had descended upon these ancient woods. All of manner of wildlife had found their way to this refuge within the forests and all had their own tale to tell. Stepping out into the crisp evening the keeper of this cabin had decided to attend to the fire that was beginning to dwindle. Playful squirrels scurried up to his ankles offering branches and other pieces of suitable fuel; they look in hope for some return and sure enough this friend of nature provided a cupful of nuts. At that moment he felt the neighbouring mice rushing to his other side in the hope that something could be found for them. He could hardly deny such harmless creatures and accordingly threw down a few more portions. It seemed that this winter was going to take its toll upon the inhabitants of this large and varied forest. He, himself had settled here a while ago; taken in by the charm and in ways using the opportunity to gather his thoughts following the strenuous years that had gone before him. Never did he think that he would have stayed beyond the warm years of summer and yet somehow, something had convinced him to stay. Maybe it was the peculiar bond he had forged with the creatures around him.
ReplyDeleteOften he would take pilgrimages into the deeper parts of the forest; exploring the rivers that weaved their way around the tall, imposing trees. His notebook stayed ever near to him. Many times he had sat on some old fallen tree trunk, the autumn leaves falling down over his head and his feet wedged into the earth. His mind would find inspiration in such an environment and he often tried to pen his thoughts into his notebook and yet never seemed able to know how to begin this. As a child he found this quite easy but the toil of years had eroded away the ease of composing and so while he tried and tried, he never seemed able to. The friendly rabbits, nosey mice and cheeky squirrels certainly provided a form of company but even among these not quite the muse he desired. However, he had a firm conviction that within these woods such could be found, it was just a matter of time.
ReplyDeleteThe evening was particular biting in its temperature and so he decided to give his evening hike a miss. Laying there on his handcrafted bed he had acquired the ability to differentiate all the many and marvellous sounds of the forest around him. Whether croaks from the swamp or tiny steps of the woods little inhabitants, his ears were one with these things. It didn’t take long for him to drift into his sleep but then he heard a distant noise. His mind initially dismissed it but it persisted. He sat up to listen again and heard a whimpering. Other noises had fallen quiet so he was able to focus on this better. Adoring himself in warming clothing, he grabbed hold of the large branch he used to guide him on his travels. Thankfully the light of the moon provided sufficient guidance and he set out, following the direction of this noise. Soon he came to a part of the wood, void of life and for some reason colder than the rest. He sensed an air of despair about it, logs lying around. They were dead and rotting but suggested something better in former years. This area of the woods he had not stumbled across before but he noticed a pathway out of it that led to a place of mystery. The bodies and skeletons of forest creatures, particularly rabbits were scattered here and there. He feared the worse and wondered if any noise could emanate from such a place. The whimpering had stopped and this place gave him the creeps and he wanted very much to hurry back. However the rustling of leaves near to his feet alerted his attention. He kneeled down, trying to see what he could in the darkness. Uncovering the leaves, his eye spotted another eye. It twinkled in the light of the moon but the twinkling had been clouded. Lying there, with gentle breaths he spied the delicate form of a bunny rabbit, one he had never seen before in these parts. With careful touches he brought this damaged life into his hands and then his arms. Whispering into its ears that all would be ok and wondering to himself where it came from and what had happened to it. Turning around, they made their way back to the safety of the log cabin.
Beach Bunny lay still, her heartbeat was barely audible even to herself. The scent of the human's body caused fear to resonate in every fiber of her tiny body. She had heard stories of these humans and how they hunted the innocent inhabitants of the forest. Shooting them with rifles, looking through scopes. skinning their barely dead bodies to consume them for their tasty meat. Was this to be her fate? To follow her heart only to be killed in some strange thicket? Mother was right, she thought to herself. Snakes are just that..snakes. He could have taught me the ways he had promised. He always said , "I'm here to protect you". Well, where is he now? I should have known all along it would come to this. He would abandon me for his beautiful wife with fangs even larger than his. Poison running through both their veins. Just at that very moment, a warm hand encircled her cold, damp body. The warmth of the human caressing her and lifting her to his jacket. Twitching her nose, she could not smell anger or malice. Something about this person was kind, protective. His scent gave off an air of freshness like flowers she had sniffed along paths. Huddled in his arms, they seemed to be walking to a destination. She could smell burning timbers somewhere close and warmth seemed to be beckoning from that same direction. The man stepped inside a structure made of logs from the forest and together they felt the chill lift from their bodies and fill with internal heat.
ReplyDeleteOnce inside,the man lay her fragile body down on a blanket of feathers and he placed a cloth over her fragile frame. "Poor little bunny. You are lucky I happened to stumble upon you this evening. Tonight is to be our first snow fall and in that condition, you would have succumbed to the elements. You're such a cute little critter, not one from around these parts. Too snow white and your coat so thin. What on earth were you doing in these Missouri woods"? Although she had no idea what his words meant, she was certain that they were kind and he meant her no harm. For the first time in a long while, she felt safe and perhaps loved. She stared up at his massive frame,thinking he resembled the mighty giraffes. He moved with grace and fortitude, hustling about the tiny space seemingly to cut carrots and lettuce which he placed in a bowl within her reach. "Looks like you haven't eaten in quit some time lil Miss Bunny. I'll let you be to rest and recoup. No one can hurt you here." She dared to lift her head and look about the sparce room. Sniffing the meal before her she nibbled on the tiny pieces of carrots and chewed heartily at the leaves of lettuce. A fire was to her left ,warming the interior of the cottage. The man seemed to live alone but perhaps his family had gone somewhere for the evening. Belly full, she hopped back to the comfort of the bed he had made for her. Sleep came quickly and in her dreams, she was haunted by the evil snake.
ReplyDeleteIn the distance, a bear stood in the woods watching the man in the cabin. He could see him walking back and forth in the cabin but couldn't see what he was doing. Time passed and he waited until the human settled down for the evening. The bear seeing the fire, slowly walked towards it. He saw the other animals around it, warm and comfortable. They were startled at first to see him but they quickly realized that they knew him and they asked him to join them around the fire. The bear lumbered around the fire looking dejected. A squirrel asked what was wrong? Well my friends, I was such a happy bear and thought that my life was going to change. I was walking deep in the woods one day and came across a bridge. There was a beautiful human standing by the bridge. She approached me as I got closer. I was shocked by this because humans always run away from me. She said hello, I'm here to help you. She said I can make all of your dreams come true. I can make you just like me. You can be human and we can live a wonderful life together. I asked why she would want to help me and she replied, I've been watching you for some time and you're big, strong, and powerful. I want someone to take care of me. I was interested but skeptical. How can you help me I asked? I'm magical of course she replied. The woman showed me that with the wave of her hand that she could turn weeds into beautiful flowers. She could heal wounds and make animals healthy again. She told me, you trust me and all of your dreams will come true. I could see that she was beautiful, kind, and helpful so she must be telling the truth.
DeleteI must say i like the new angle pm, the bear is most welcome and I love the idea of this magical woman.
DeleteBlack, thank you very much. You're both wonderful story tellers so I will do my best to keep it interesting and flowing.
DeleteSo of course, the hunter has to be the worst person in the world in your story. People have hunted since the beginning of time to provide food and clothing. We do it today all the time. I suppose you have a problem with that too? Do you realize that people use animal pelts for everything? I bet you must be some vegetarian or something and all of us hunters are scum of the earth. I guess I'll just let all the animals live and we'll just see what happens. People would complain about al the disease and problems all the animals would bring to your life.
ReplyDeleteI'll keep hunting and enjoy every minute of it.
Look Davy Crockett, chill.. and leave my bunny alone !!!!! It's not even deer season so get off your soap box till then.
Delete(Back inside the cabin)
ReplyDeleteThe human but couldn’t help notice the twitching of the snow white bunny’s nose, ‘is it possible that animals dream as well as we do?’ he said to himself. He saw how fear seemed to descend upon its facial expression and he became more and more fascinated with the almost human like characteristics of his new furry friend. Whether or not being isolated among the dense forest and surrounded by nothing but four footed friends was being to take its toll in his mind – he wasn’t sure. All he knew was that he felt one with this place and believed something lurked within it that was more than met the eye. ‘Rest on little thing and get your strength together...you must have been petrified when I first lifted you up...never fear I have no intention of making you my supper’ He chuckled to himself when he said this and quietly thought in his mind, ‘well there’s no meat on the humble thing in any place...wouldn’t even fill my big toe’. Thankfully, he was an industrious individual and had provided a supply of food for himself that had been carefully prepared and preserved. He hoped that the harsh winter would not drain his supplies too much but felt quite confident that nature’s hidden gems would more than supply his daily appetite.
Time went by and the kindly man began to settle himself back into his own resting place. The fire was being to fade and all faces of animal life seemed to simultaneously drift into a midnight sleep. He lay on side, a rugged blanket that obviously had been hand crafted, draped over his broad frame. His eye fixed itself on the new friend he had rescued and then it struck him. Something he had never noticed it before, I suppose it was because he had been spending so much time trying to revive its strength that he didn’t take the entire bunny in. It was difficult to make out at first, but the persistent moonlight attracted a sparkle that was nestled under the silky fur by its neck.
ReplyDeleteCuriosity got the better of him again and so pulling the blanket back and tip toeing, across the creaking wooden floor, he knelt down beside the rabbit. With finger and thumb he brought out into the open a chain which was fastened around the neck of the bunny. So struck was he by what he would then see that he had to rub his eyes and look again. The writing was hard to make out, so with his hand he pushed more fur back but again had to keep rubbing his eyes to aid his vision. He then made out these words,
To my darling daughter, shine brighter at night
He initially thought that this bunny must have been a house hold pet that had run away. But why would it be wearing such a necklace and pendant as this? Trying to seek more information, he moved more velvet like fur to one side. His eyes itched further and so he eased the feeling with his fingers. This brought a most strange sensation of his whole being and without helping he sneezed...opening his eyes, the bunny seemed to have grown in size...he sneezed again...and once more it had grown. Now with both hands he felt the urge to feel his eyes, relieve the itching and began scratching all parts of his face and arms. He knew one more final and loud sneeze await him; he held it in as much as he good but it was no good, ‘ah...ahh...ahhh choooo’. With this the bunny nearly leapt out of her skin but that was not the only surprise. The man heard her speak, ‘oh you made me jump...’
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ReplyDeleteAs soon as the words crossed her lips, she realized that they were spoken in Human tongue. She immediately bolted upright on her hind legs, looked about in amazement at the man standing beside her and realized his giraffe sized frame was now not much bigger than her's. Surely, I must still be dreaming she thought. With a quick shake of her body and eyes glancing about the cottage, she knew this was not a figment of her imagination. Assessing the situation at hand, she realized that somehow the man had shrunk to just inches taller than herself. O.K...O.K...Get a Grip this can easily be explained. Did I eat some forest mushrooms last night in my bowl of food? She knew that such things can cause strange delusions in your mind. Try as she may, she only remembered the carrots and lettuce leaves. This can't be happening, she thought. As if for reassurance, she looked directly into the eyes of the man who now stood shoulder height to her petite frame. Unfortunatly, he offered no help and looked even more confused and perplexed than she was.
ReplyDeleteNo sooner were the words dismissed from her lips, she realized that she had spoken to the man in a very Human voice. Standing on her hind legs in amazement, she also came to realize that the man who resembled a giraffe was now just inches taller than her. Shaking her tiny frame. as if to awaken from some strange mystical dream, she stood in total awe of her surroundings. She mentally took account of the size of things situated in the cottage. To the best of her knowledge, she was still bunny sized but the man had somehow shrunk to just a wee replica of his former self.
DeleteThis was the missing section that was deleted and reappeared once again. I included it as an alternate paragraph to the rewrite above
DeleteIt was times like these that made her doubt so many things . Being a bunny left her so vulnerable.. not only to the physical things in life but emotional as well. Most animals had physical attributes that could help them protect themselves. Just look at her. Soft skin ,a voice barely above a whisper, small mouth, small frame,feet only good for hopping and ok so her teeth could really dig in and bite but it would have to be something small. Then let's face it...Who is afraid of a bunny? Bunnies were cute, harmless...turn them into chocolate and a kid could eat the ears off in less then a minute. They went with jellybeans , Easter eggs and pastel colors. Hardly something you would fear. No wonder the sneaky, slimy snake took her heart and ripped it to shreds. Just look where her trusting ,sweet nature got her. Now she sat staring into the eyes of a Human that just shrunk his form and caste a spell on her causing her to speak in strange tongues. Shuddering with fear as to her predicament, she remembered the necklace her mother had given her just before she passed on to Bunny Heaven. She had told her never to be afraid of the dark and remember that stars shine brightest in the night sky.
ReplyDeleteHer little heart was racing a mile a minute but she realized one of them had to say something and it might as well be her. "First of all I want to thank you for saving my life in the woods. I'm not sure what your intentions are but I have read Hansel and Gretel so don't think for one minute I trust your goodwill. I appreciated the meal last night but if you think for one single second that you will fatten me up just to make some Rabbit Stew you will have another thing coming to you. I'm smarter than I look and alot tougher. I come from a long line of huge Hares.. ever hear of Brer Rabbit? Well he was my Great Uncle ... so there!" With all that said, the man sat up looked her straight in the eyes and laughed his head off.
ReplyDelete(Back outside)
ReplyDeleteI saw the princess perform her magic and was in awe. I wanted so much to be happy and see what it was like to be a human. The princess asked if I was ready and with a timid nod of my head, I said yes. She closed her eyes and waved her hand slowly. I could feel and see the changes happening. I was suddenly standing on two legs and my fur was gone and I had hands and a strong body. When the change was complete the princess smiled and said, you belong to me now. I was so happy to be human that her words feel upon deaf ears. She took me by the hand and we returned to her home. It was a beautiful home in the middle of the woods.
The princess and I enjoyed days and nights together, simply talking and getting to know each other. We talked about our dreams, hopes, desires. Time seemed to stand still in the beginning. We were inseparable. The days turns turned into weeks and months. The princess was always with me but was also never with me. She always wanted to talk about how everyone was mean to her and how people were only interested in her beauty. She complained all the time that life was not fair and she used her magic for bad things. She would leave the home for hours and when she returned she went straight to her room, ignoring me or reminding me that she owned me for making me human so I should be happy that she hasn't changed me back. I was happy and thought she was too so I did everything she asked. Time continued on and I began to realize that she was not a true princess. She had a dark evil side to her that was hidden beneath her beauty. I now began to wonder what I had done in order to be human.
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ReplyDelete(Inside the cabin)
ReplyDeleteManaging to compose himself somewhat after his bout of laughter the man uttered, ‘don’t be so silly, me eat you! Should I not be afraid of those flapping great big feet or those fearsome teeth of yours?’ How perspective had changed everything he thought to himself.
‘Look I can assure you I had no intention of stewing you nor have I now...all I cared was for your safety because you seemed so wounded and defenceless.’
Just then it dawned on him that he was in a conversation with a bunny rabbit and he burst out in fits of laughter again. Such laughter once would have reverberated around the cabin but now due to his miniscule frame only barely rivalled the noise volume of a mouse.
‘This is amazing! Look at me, look at us!’ He spied the room and took in how everything now seemed so large and formidable. The left over stump of carrot still remained in the bowl and yet to lift it seemed a challenge in itself. ‘This could feed me now for a week ’he marvelled,‘...tell me how did this happen?’
Bunny replied hesitantly, ‘well...well I thought you had placed a spell upon us both’
Laughing again he said, ‘Oh do not be so silly, do I look like a sorcerer?’ Deep down he always knew that something enchanted lurked within these forests and now his suspicions were proving true. Then it dawned on him, ‘it must be your fur! I touched you when I noticed that pendant and had to rub my eyes. Yes, that’s it, I sneezed. There must be something on your fur that has changed my size and enabled me to hear you now. Tell me, snow bunny, have you had some spell placed upon you? Also, why did I find you so frail and wounded?’
Beach bunny found comfort in his words and like the name snow bunny especially given the wintery conditions. She hesitated to unveil her past, the spell and the history of the pendant. However, she was able to find ease by telling him all about the silver tongue snake and his dastardly ways. The man, who then introduced himself as Christopher Harming, felt his heart drawn after her own heart and she recounted with animal tears the suffering she had endured. Just as he was about to speak they heard the sobbing of what seemed like a large animal in the woods.
ReplyDelete‘This is a most peculiar night’ Christopher said. They gingerly stepped and hopped outside into the arctic night. Near to the cabin a fire was roaring away, sat around it a collection of squirrels, rabbits, moles and then, most noticeably, a bear. The bear was visibly distressed. Both bunny and Christopher could see its head hanging low, tears splashed into the fire and others had drawn near to this large friend seeking to provide some comfort. Bunny first hopped over and the man followed after fearing the worst because of his now weakly size. However he soon spotted his friends among them and they recognized him. His kind deeds had not gone unnoticed and they immediately brought him into the fold. One mouse plumped a nut into his lap and intimated it was his after all.
Tales were exchanged, the bunny told hers, Christopher his and they two both heard the melancholy woes of the bear.
Listening to the others divulge their experiences made Bunny feel comforted and relaxed. For the first time in a long while, she was able to forget about her troubles with Snake and try to overcome the loneliness and hurt she had harbored within her heart for so long. Although they seemed like a caring bunch, she still held on to her conviction and vowed to never become close to anyone. "I will not let anybody rule my heart again", she said to herself with strong determination . " Love is for fools", she had decided. "It is nothing more than an ego booster and I shall have none of it . I have closed my heart and soul to romance forever". Feeling surrounded by new found friends, her confidence grew stronger." Could I finally be happy ? Will I spend my days still thinking of Snake and his happy life without me or can I move on and somehow , someday forget the dreams I had. Only time will divulge these answers and until then, I will just exist in this life before me". She looked over at Christopher who seemed to be quite uncomfortable in his new size, and wondered what that strange look in his eyes held. Now that they were both so small, who would reach all the things they needed in the cottage ? Not that she was planning to stay , mind you. "I can't very well leave in the middle of winter, so I am destined to spend some time here in this cabin with a man that can't do much of anything given his new height. Perhaps I should ask him if he would mind having the Gentle Giant Bear come stay with us until we have figured out a solution to this dilemma". She glanced back to the group that had assembled around the fire and wondered just where she fit in with them. Most, like herself had experienced some form of heartache or loss and yet they seemed eager to help others in their time of need. Though she felt compassion for them, she certainly didn't want to get involved in their lives. "I need to maintain my distance, keep my heart strong and if it comes off cold and indifferent.. so be it", she found herself muttering out loud.
ReplyDeleteoh dear bunny has got a bit frosty :)
ReplyDeleteYES !! She plans to live up to her new name..Frosty
DeleteEager to hear the rest of the Bear's story, she asked him to continue to tell just how he went from Human form to becoming a Bear once again. Perhaps, If I could find this Princess, I could become human as well . If only I could erase Snake from my mind, I could move on in another life form. I'd have a new heart. One that didn't carry remnants and the burden of my loving ways. It would be cold, cunning and fulled with guile.
ReplyDeleteoops word should read filled not fulled ^^^^^
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ReplyDeleteThe bear appreciated the support he was receiving from his friends and was happy to share his story with his new friends, the tiny human and sweet bunny. The bear was now starting to realize that he had made a mistake in trusting the princess so quickly. She seemed so sweet and pure on the surface, how could she be mean he thought. The princess told me that she loved me and she wanted a strong man to protect her. I did all the things she asked yet she would never share her true feelings with me. She was always asking me to do things for her, or take care of her. The princess was always gone and when she returned, I would ask where she had been and she would respond with, I've been with other humans that understand me and love me. This hurt me deeply and she could see this. The princess would look at me with her empty black eyes and smirk as she returned to her room. I knew that I had to do something soon or suffer forever with this wicked princess.
ReplyDeleteAs the night wore away the animals of the enchanted wood grew to know one another better. It seemed poor bear was in a rot and couldn’t get the awful treatment he received out of his mind. The first few recounts brought the sympathising tear but he began to repeat himself continually. Bunny with her new found confidence and no nonsense approach stepped in on the fourth rendition of his life story, ‘Look gentle bear, we are with you brother, all of the way but you’re helping no one not least yourself by regurgitating the same old woes. We need to move on together...this dark woman of you speak needs to be taught a lesson I think’
ReplyDelete‘I’m sorry bunny wabbit’ the soft bear was unable to articulate that troublesome r but this added to his endearment. ‘I don’t mind to go on but you see I weally was taken in by her and thought...’ and so he began again. One of the mischievous mice threw half a nut at his nose which brought laughter to them, even to old bear himself.
Christopher then climbed his way up on top of the bear’s shoulders and broke into a midnight song,
It’s no use for us to sit and cry
ReplyDeleteWhen the days and nights are passing by,
We know poor bear the way in which you fare
And look at me no taller than a pear!
Oh bunny rabbit white as white can be
Bitten by a snake now so utterly care free
It’s no use for us to wonder why
But for us to think and then to try
Let us find that dastardly lady
Let us catch that slippery snake
Let us resolve never to go
And make the same mistake!
They were all up together around the fire jumping and leaping and one in song. Gentle bear got carried away and flung the man into the air. He was travelling at speed towards the fire, death staring him in the face. Thankfully snow bunny leapt through the air to catch him but in the process singed its fluffy tail. They collapsed in a heap and bunny said to him, ‘you know I would love to be a princess...I remember when...’then she stopped suddenly.
ReplyDelete‘No carry on bunny what were you saying?’
‘Well, um, oh this is so hard to say’
‘Were you once like me?’ he asked tenderly
‘Yes, yes, I was. That is why I wear this pendant. It reminds me of where I came from and more importantly what I want to go back to’.
‘Look’ said Christopher with authority that belied his size, ‘I have no intention remaining the size of a walnut and you obviously want to go back to human form. Why don’t we try and find this evil woman that bear spoke of and see if we can use her craft.’
Bear interrupted
‘I don’t think that’s a good idea. She will cast a spell upon you both’
Christopher replied, ‘the heart, if we keep our hearts she can’t touch us’
Bunny pondered over Christopher's last words "If we can Keep our hearts". A nice enough thought but Bunny knew that she no longer had a heart to keep. Deep inside her fragile petite body was a cold empty space where a heart had once thrived, beating with such intensity. She knew this to be true as her compassion for the plights of the other's had little or no effect on her concern. All she cared about now was her own welfare. Perhaps Snake had seeped his venom into her veins. The times he bared his fangs, while caressing her neck must be the cause of this detachment from others that she was now experiencing. Her involvement with this strange mix of critters was only to benefit her needs and wants. The most pertinent one being food and shelter. Though she wished them all no harm, she neither wished them well. "Oh, I'll be Snow White or Snow Bunny for a while but I am certainly not going to be Christopher's Fairy Princess", she almost muttered out loud.
ReplyDeleteNot wanting to be harsh and cruel with the lumbering Bear, but she almost giggled as the mouse tossed a nut to his nose. He reminded her so much of herself at one point that now , in retrospect, she saw how foolish and pathetic she had been crying over that Evil Silver Tongued Snake. Never before in her short life , had anyone taken such advantage of her kindness and adoration. " Live and Learn", as her Momma use to say and that she had ! Time will heal my broken heart and the scares will be there to remind me of my mistake. Naivety can be both good and bad. The innocence makes us vulnerable yet it's purity shines with such beauty. That was the past..this is the now..Keeping her eyes wide open, she rejoined the incessant chatter of the others.
ReplyDeleteAs the Embers died, she knew she must go back to the cabin and face the many questions that await her. Christopher seemed like a man with many complexities himself. To try and ignore his earlier inquisitiveness, would probably be hopeless. Perhaps if I turn the focus on him and his strange life out here in the woods, I can gain some time for myself. She did wonder why he lived alone out here with no human contact but knew that some Humans prefer the solitude and are described as Loners. Hadn't she been basically a loner in the Swamps? Look where it got her to seek out companionship with that Horrid Snake. Perhaps he was right in searching for solitude within the forest. Slowly she approached his small frame. Feigning tiredness , she suggesting they all seek cover for the night and congregate here in the early dawn.
ReplyDeleteOh Gosh ..I think this is turning into a remake of The Wizard of Oz mixed with Alice In Wonderland throw in Snow White. I suppose that is why they are called Classics. They remain pertinent to new generations forever. If anyone else that views our blog , wants to jump in we would welcome all contributions.
ReplyDeleteOnce inside the cabin, they both realized that help would be needed for even the most basic tasks. Christopher could no longer bathe in his tub or retire to his bed. "Oh Dear", he exclaimed. "How will I ever wash and sleep in my bed?. Perhaps I should go back outside and ask the Bear if he would care to join us. After all, his large stature would come in most handy. Would you mind Mz. Bunny"? Although she wasn't fond of sharing her personal space with one, yet alone two men, how could she refuse? It was his cabin, therefore his decision to make. Besides, he did have a good point. The Bear could help around here till we were able to correct this quandary. "Well, Christopher , you do have a valid point. There is no way i could lift you to your bath or bed. Our food is high up in the cupboards and neither of us can reach them at this moment. I suppose we have no other choice.
ReplyDeleteBunny hums the Kelly Clarkson song in her head http://youtu.be/ANKWwI0ONGc
ReplyDeleteBunny's foot was doing the bunny thump a mile a minute. That movement was an indicator that all all was not sitting well in her mind. " That big lumbering Bear will track dirt all in this cottage, never mind fur! Who do they think is going to clean this mess up? I am not Goldilocks and don't want a Bear in my house. How long does this winter thing last? If only I had stayed in the swamps and not listened to the Snake in the grass. There I had my independence, no one to answer to, no cottage to tidy up after. Now I have to clean the slushy mud from the floor, fur balls will be everywhere and gosh only knows what that Human is capable of".
ReplyDeleteBear settled in for the night as the fire faded away. He was happy to have his friends but he knew what he must do. He had to help the human and snow bunny. There was no time for sympathy or pity. He was strong and had to take on the evil princess and silver tongued snake. He could not let them continue hurting people. He knew their type too well. They were so quick to worry about themselves only and blame others for everything. Their outer appearance hiding their true evil. Bear had heard stories of the snake from other animals in the woods. How he would inject his poison into many woodland animals. His only goal, to use them to play his evil games and make him feel like the most important animal in the woods. The princess, using her outer beauty to lure people to her. This can go on no longer! The bear would lie at the door of the cabin for the night, guarding his new friends. In the morning, he would help them prepare meals as they were too small to reach the pantry. They would need their strength because they were going to go battle the snake and the princess and destroy them. The woods will be safe and happy again once these evil creatures are gone. Bear knew that he would need the brain of the human, the speed of the rabbit, and his strength if they were going to return all of them to normal. Normal, a word that bear hadn't used in so long. His time with the princess took all that was normal away from him but he could see the good in snow bunny and the human. He was determined to show them both that he was not a giant lumbering bear. He would show them that he was a caring person that could provide true friendship, love, and support.
ReplyDeleteBunny awoke to loud sounds just outside the cabin door. The sounds were echoing through the cabin walls much like the whistle of a tornado. Though she had never heard a real tornado, she knew heavy winds from the hurricanes back home in the swamps. Her eyes darted around the small abode in search of Christopher. She found him huddled up in blankets at the foot of the bed that he was unable to climb up to last night. "Christopher wake up!", she shouted. "Don't you hear those awful sounds ? How on earth can you sleep through this. WAKE UP RIGHT NOW ! There's a tornado about to blow us away". Christopher, still in the throws of such pleasant dreams, awoke with a startle. Bunny was hoping around frantically, like her head had been cut off. "Bunny, what has driven you to such madness? Have you caught rabies or something? Calm down, silly rabbit. Did you even look outside to see if the winds are blowing? Never mind, I'll take a peek. Stay here and stop over reacting . The woods are always full of sounds, as you well know. Trees falling from the weight of the snow is probably all it is". He walked as fast as his pace would now allow given the new nature of his size. Finding it difficult to actually see out the window, he had to push various items upon which to climb. At that point, another loud sound came from outside. He had to laugh as it sounded much like a deafening, heavy snore. As he peered out the window, he gazed upon the figure of Bear asleep on his doorstep. Apparently Bear was so deep in sleep that the thunderous roars were nothing more then him snoring away as most bears do when they hibernate for the winter. "Snow Bunny, come here let me help you hop up so you can see for yourself. It's just the silly Bear. Seems he has fallen asleep on the doorstep and snoring as loud as can be. Let me make a fire to warm us both up and if you help me stack some things against the cupboards, I'll try to make us a pot of tea". Bunny made that squincy face she was now so prone to at the mere mention of tea. "I don't drink tea, Christopher, she quickly blurted out. "I am a coffee drinker and I take that black thank you"."Look Snow, this is not Starbucks, so unfortunately, there is no coffee. You will have to make due with my tea, I can't very well go to the store being 11 inches tall. Besides tea is much better than that awful bitter taste of coffee". Not wanting to argue with him, because clearly the man was insane at this point, she took his offer of the cup of tea but demanded he put honey or milk in it. Anything to kill the horrid taste. Together they lit the fire and boiled the water for the hot beverage. As they sipped the tea, and the tension seemed to lift between them, she stared into his big blue eyes. He returned the stare with a glimmer and glint that she found quite confusing. Lost in their own thoughts, they spent the next few minutes quietly observing one another. Bunny, being the inquisitive one, finally asked , "What had brought him to these woods? Did he have family near by and how did he support himself alone in the forest"?
ReplyDeleteChristopher seemed taken aback by the sudden inquisition that snow bunny has instigated. Her beady eyes seemed to fix onto his, prying into the depths of his soul and making him feel even small than he already was. He thought to himself how things how changed from her humble, near death condition. He had held her in his strong arms as she whimpered. Now she had taken over the cabin, somehow shrunken him with her fur and had a acquired a sleeping guard on the doorstep. He wondered if that venom with which she had been bitten by the sliver tongued snake had begun to take its toll on her own frame and mind. Ever being the open one he was not afraid to reveal his past.
ReplyDelete‘well bunny I must say you have come very bold in the last few hours or so...I meant to say, do make yourself at home here...oh I see you have already’ He smiled to himself with this tongue in cheek comment.
‘Ok well I’ll make it short (excuse the pun) but will start from the beginning’
At that moment an almighty grunt emanated from the porch and bear had woken himself up with his own incessant snoring. His nose twitched as he detected the delectable smell of honey that bunny has insisted upon for her tea. Dreamily he made his way over to wear yet another fire was kindling and slumped himself down beside the two who were in mid conversation.’
‘Don’t mind me, thought you two might need some company’ he stroked bunny’s head however not realising his own strength every movement was a crushing blow to her brittle skull. Christopher noticing her pain decided to move to a safer position in order to guard his own life.
‘Dear bear I was about to explain to our mutual friend my history, she asked so I cannot possibly deny her. I hope you don’t mind hearing this.’ And so he began,
ReplyDelete‘Well actually I don’t belong in these parts; I live and have family very far from here. Whether it you choose to believe what I am about to say is entirely up to you. I am a son of a king who was also known as C. Harming. Our land and kingdom was small, much smaller than where we are now. I was raised a Prince, educated a Prince and destined to be a King. Inside of me I never quite had the desire for this though. I longed for a journey but was unable to satisfy such longings. Possibly, the thing that changed my course in life happened many years ago...’
And so Christopher explained how that as a young lad he came across what he could only describe as an enigma, but a happy one. She was a year younger than he but they met in a most unlikely situation. Their immediate fondness for each other was compelling. For some time they grew to know each other until their hearts knit as one. Then one day he heard nothing from her. He looked and looked searching far and for long periods. All if knew was of kidnappings that had taken place near to his Father’s place. He feared the worse and his parents sought to console him. However the years wore on and so did he. His mind wasn’t what it once was and so with a portion of his heritage he upped and left. His Father warned him never to return for bringing such shame to the family. He didn’t care. He travelled across the seas, became embroiled in all sorts of corruption and deceit.
‘That was until I stumbled across this forest a few months back, it drew me in, it held me and still has and so here am I. I’ve enough to supply my needs. I have stored wealth in the nearest town and could easily live in east. Yet, I choose to stay here and look at me, talking with a bunny and a bear and no higher than my Father’s crown!’
That night something clicked amongst the three of them. Sleep overcame them, it was long overdue anyway. The morning chill provided the wakeup call and bunny was first to arise. She had her routine, toilet, drink, wash her paws and fur with her own saliva and proceeded to skip around rearranging elements of the cabin that were clearly the marks of a man living alone.
ReplyDeleteThe blearily eyed Christopher awoke soon followed by the yawns of the bear whose nose seemed red, likely the cause of the nut throwing mouse. Bear elbowed the man to get his attention; the blow nearly crushed every rib he had.
‘Look’ bear said eagerly, ‘look at how bunny is hoping everywhere’
‘I know, you would think she owned the place!’
At that moment the cabin door received three uncertain knocks. Bunny skipped over to answer but upon opening she remained motionless. Christopher came behind her and saw exactly why. There it was, in the craftiness of his person...
forgive my bad spelling at times, i didnt check it
ReplyDeleteThere stood Silver Tongued Snake !! Bunny gasped as she saw his form slithering at her feet.."What are you doing here and better yet , how did you find me?", she quivered. "Bunny, come outside. I need to talk to you and not with these Dudes hanging on every word. I don't have much time..gotta scoot in a few but had to try and catch you. Also, don't ever think for one minute I don't know what you're doing. Remember these are my woods, my town. News travels fast and I have my ways. Now get your *&%#*^% out here before I freeze." "If you want to talk to me Snake, you can talk in front of my friends. I have nothing to hide", was her quick reply. Snake shot daggers at both Christopher and Bear. He had a mean streak and made no attempt to hide his disdane for the onlookers in the room. "HISSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS, you jerks. One bite with my fangs and you'd wish you had decided to go on your own". Not wanting to drag both Christopher and Bear into this ugly argument, Bunny excused herself and proceeded to leave the warmth of the cabin to confront Snake for the last time. Christopher, wanting to protect her , ushered a protest to her leaving. "Snow Bunny, you don't have to go with him but if that is what you want, I'll understand. As for you , Snake, don't threaten any of us with your venomous attacks. You don't know me or what I am capable of. Treat her with respect or you will be the one to live to regret your actions". Bunny looked in his eyes and silently thanked him for his bravado. With that, she closed the door to the cottage and entered the brisk wintery cold to speak with the man she once admired and loved.
ReplyDeleteBear saw all of this happen and wanted to rush at the snake and crush him beneath his giant paws. He wanted the snake to suffer so he could feel the same pain that he has caused. He growled mightly as the door closed behind snow bunny. He did not want to leave her alone with the slithering snake. He was about to burst through the door but Christopher stopped him. Bear stop! This is something that she must do on her own. She knows how dangerous the serpent is and will be on guard for all of his tricks. Snow bunny knows now that her mother was right, that she can never trust a snake no matter what happy sounds it made or how kind it appeared. Christopher told bear that the snake had tried his best to sink his fangs into her and poison her. The snake had hurt snow bunny very deeply and her heart and trust were both gone because of the snake. Christopher knew that snow would never trust or listen to the snake again. She knew that he was evil. Be patient bear Christopher told him, you will have your chance to make the silver tongued snake suffer. If not today, very soon. We must find the evil princess and make her change us all back into our human form. Bear knew that the princess was surely a witch and it would take everything in him to defeat her and break the spell that she had spread through the forest. He knew that her vanity would be her downfall. She can be defeated by destroying her outer body and revealing the witch underneath. Bear went to the door and listened carefully, his huge body was ready to pounce on the snake. He would not let this cold hearted serpent hurt snow bunny ever again.
ReplyDeleteTime went by and still there was no sign of bunny returning to the cabin. Bear indicated to Christopher that he could no longer hear any voices and so they both opened the door to see what had gone on. No one was to be seen, beneath their feet remained only a meandering track laced with slime which was obviously the marks of the devious snake. Christopher tripped as he ran out; looking to his feet he saw the chain and pendant on the ground.
ReplyDelete‘Look Bear, it’s her chain. Oh my, she must have been kidnapped by him...why did we let her go out of our sight!’ The two of them slumped next to the door; feelings of hopelessness overcame them as they feared the worst for their new found friend. Holding the pendant in his hands the words seemed to glisten in the morning sun, ‘stars always shine brightest at night’.
‘No we can’t sit here, give up and quit. We need to be smarter than him bear, we need to find him and show him that his time has now come’
Bear heartily agreed and was almost too ready to run ahead, though where to he wasn’t quite sure.
‘My giant grizzly friend we need a plan more cunning than the silver tongued serpent himself. Tell me, did you ever find out how to expose the weakness of the evil princess?’
‘Yes, I overheard her once saying that she cannot stand the looking glass, you know a mirror. If she looks into one her outward beauty fades and her true ugly self is revealed’
‘Ok, so here’s the plan...’ Christopher said.
He cleared a log table in the cabin. He called in all the furry animals of the forest he could muster and trust. Together they hatched a plan to rescue bunny from her fate.
ReplyDeleteThey knew to stand any real chance they must persuade evil princess to tell them how to return them to their human form for good. This would prove tricky as bear indicated because she could easily place them under a spell. He knew though that there was a lake called Phoenix near to her dwellings and it was the source of all her power. She merely guarded it with fearsome creatures and that is why no one could enter near to it. Apparently, the lake responded to the desires within; if the desires were dark so too the powers but if the desires noble so the effects. Armed with acorns, pine cones, vine and sticks the animal crew accompanied by the man set out on their daring endeavour.
Bear would need to show great fortitude by confronting his nemesis again, the man had to make sure he wasn’t squashed or didn’t fall from some great height. But they believed that with their united affection for snow bunny and the sense of togetherness that it could be done, the fight could be won! Christopher remembered the way into the snake’s home from the time he rescued bunny. He was sure that the creepy path he had noticed was the way to it.
(Narrators voice) What will become of the bunny, bear and Christopher? No doubt the intentions were brave but could they possibly be misguided? Bunny herself may have already fallen victim to the poisonous bite of the silver tongued snake. Could it be they were all walking into a trap...?
Bunny found herself restrained; looking around her in a dark, gloomy environment, her thoughts began to race quicker than her twitching nose...
Bunny awoke with a startle. Surveying her surroundings, she realized that the Snake had thrust his poisonous fangs into her neck as he pretended to be kissing her hello. The place she found herself in was even colder then the winds that blew outside. The dampness had seeped in and the ground was muddy and wet. Somehow he had placed her against the wall of the building tying her poor soft legs to the shackles that now clamped her feet. She was unable to move about and fear set her heart beat to rapidly quicken . She could hear it reverberating in her ears....THUMP THUMP THUMP. She wanted to scream, to cry out but she knew her efforts would be in vain. She must control the fear and concentrate devoting her thoughts to escaping from the dreary dungeon. At least she was still alive so hope ran through ever fiber of her body. " Where did Snake go? Will he come back? Why do this to me when all I did was show him love? Wasn't it enough that he left me in the woods to die, never to return to see how i was faring the winter? I always knew he delighted in the evilness of torture. We spoke of it many times. I tried to understand that it was the mind set of a snake. It spoke of his needs as a Hunter and filled his body with desire". Her head hung in despair and it was then she noticed the magical necklace was missing from her neck. Without that necklace she was doomed to forever remain a rabbit and never return to her former self. Sobs escaped from her lips and the sounds echoed through the dungeon like cell. Someone will save me. I just know it in my heart. Snake will return and set me free. His jealousy will subside and eventually he will come to his senses. Or perhaps, Christopher , with the help of all his friends will track my scent to this forbidden place. At least he has kept me alive". She shuddered at the thought of why.
ReplyDeleteThe hours grew longer. Darkness had set in and there was no light filtering in through the small window or door frame. Her lithe body was covered in goosebumps and she needed water to quench her thirst. She drifted in and out of slumber, dreaming of the swamps and how her life had taken on such a drastic change. If she was truly over Snake, why did he still inhabit her dreams and thoughts? What was this intense hold he had on her? The way he dominated her like no other ever had. She wondered if it was because she hadn't allowed anyone to enter her heart since the day she set eyes on him. If she ever escaped from this dungeon, she would leave these woods, go back South and start all over. Erase him from her mind. Rid herself of his poisonous hold. She would do whatever she had to to forget him. If there was a way to return to Human form, she would seek out the journey till she had no breath left in her body. Just then she heard a sound outside the door. Holding her breath in fear of what was to enter into this domain, a single tear escaped from the corner of her eye.
ReplyDeleteThe door opened just a crack and in slithered Snake, " Hey, Bunny I see you're awake. scared are you? Hungry or is it thirst that you seek? I'm here speak. Surely you must be awash with questions for me . On second thought don't think. Let me think for you. You're wondering why I have dragged you to this dastardly place and bound you legs. Come on, Bunny or is your new name Snow? You know I won't let you leave when you want to. I'm the one in control here not you..Kindly remember that for future references. Besides, you like this and don't deny that. The suspense, the fright. If you didn't you would have never come my way to begin with. Most sane people see a Snake and run. Not you though and that's a good thing for me. You're always there aren't you? A willing participant in this cat and mouse game. I toy and you suffer". Bunny , holding in her tears , finally spoke. " Snake, it took me a long time to see who you really are. You shed so many skins I never knew who was the true you. The gentle, kind cunning , witty snake with a sensitive side you rarely showed or the controlling evil one that I came to know. It is true, I loved you once and perhaps you felt something for me as well. Those days and those feelings are long gone. whatever love I had for you, you killed over and over again till there was nothing but shreds of a heart left. Perhaps, my mistake was loving you unconditionally and without boundaries. Your mistake was taking me for a fool. I don't regret what we shared. You gave me many wonderful days and nights and for that I thank you. But, I am no ones fool either and I don't stay where I'm not wanted. Let us end this now before the love and respect I had for you dies . My heart and soul will mend in time and I wish you only happiness in your life as I would hope you would want for me. You thought you knew me but you never did. I thought you loved me but you never did. I guess we are both even.
ReplyDeleteMany moments passed in silence. Many thoughts raced through her mind. The sadness she felt was not related to the now of it all. It came from memories long past. Memories of laughter,knowledge, music and desire. She had mourned all this long before winter had set in. The frost in the air matched the frost of her heart. Maybe he would relent and though his feelings were long gone, perhaps he would resurrect the same memories and let her go for the sake of what they had once shared. She knew that somewhere down deep the Snake had a heart. A heart that somewhere in his life had turned to stone. The reasons she had never discovered though he had hinted of such a crime.
ReplyDeleteSuddenly the Silver Snake was moving all over her shaking body. His two faced tongue slithering along her skin, parting the fur like a comb. He whispered HISS in her ears till the sound became deafening to her senses. Any moment she envisioned as her last. Each breath to become the final inhale . Each thought the last memory. Her heart had stopped beating. Finally he spoke and said, " Go my little naive Bunny, but remember NOT EVERYONE IS NICE, and you may think I have no heart but I do and sometimes it gets hurt as well". She knew then exactly what her Mother had meant when she told her that you may survive the bite but you will never forget the pain. No further words were spoken but her tears said far more than any words could ever say. She opened the door of the dungeon to smell the fresh air and look up at the stars and it was true , the darker the sky the brighter the stars.
ReplyDeleteWow love the story and its like u pull me in and make it a part of me. Love how when i read it that it pulls u in and lets u feel wat the bunny went through and has gone through.I love reading the blog and know havent written in long time but again was sick and doing better . I am waiting 2 read more so keep it coming please and keep me wrapped up in the story. thank you again for sharing and i want more !!!!! Will keep eye open for more and want 2 see the snake get his head chopped off once and for all..
ReplyDeleteya... pull it in...indeed..
ReplyDeleterather cynical tone to those words our anonymous friend...is there something you wish to say?
Delete‘Are you sure this is the way Bear?’
ReplyDelete‘Yes of course...you see that bridge over there, well just beyond that is phoenix river and where she lives’ he shuddered at the thought of this.
‘Ok everyone you know your positions’ voiced Christopher. He was beginning to get very weary of his pock sized frame. Thankfully for the journey he only had to perch on bear’s shoulder but he knew the rest he would have to walk alone. Squirrels quickly manoeuvred their way to the tree tops overlooking the lake while grounded animals scurried to similar positions. Christopher himself ran as fast as could over the bridge and towards the house and managed to stay out of sight the whole time. Bear was following after but he made his way over the bridge with purposeful steps. His part was to draw all of the attention and hopefully alert the wicked princess to his presence. Christopher managed to find a way into the house through an open window. It certainly was a creepy place and one he had no intention of staying in. Once in place he made eye contact with the lead squirrel who in turn alerted the remained of the forest division. They all ran with gusto towards the edge of the lake, the fiendish custodians of this place quickly responded by making all manner of noises and ran after them. They abandoned their station and ran deep into the woods; while they were stronger they were no faster or certainly a lot more stupid than the allies of Christopher and Bear.
The dark princess heard the commotion and came out, her eye latched onto the approaching bear and she laughed, ‘I knew you would come back, how could you possibly resist me?’
ReplyDeleteBear played along. ‘Yes, yes it was too much for, I couldn’t hold back any longer and knew I had to make my way back. Will you take me in?’
‘You know I will’ she replied with sinister intent, ‘but you know what you need to do, remember?’
Christopher knew this was the moment. Bear had told him there was an old mirror in one of her rooms, a sheet covered it from her sight but she could never part with it because it belonged to those who lived before her. It was a struggle but he managed to drag the covering away, he cleaned off the dust and used all his strength to push it into place.
Once through the door, Bear seized hold of his adversary but he knew he had little time. He felt her powers infiltrate in his hand, and then his arms and so he pushed her into the room. There she stood helpless to move with her own reflection before her and slowly her form changed from outward beauty to a most grotesque image. Her body began to erode until all that was left were the bones and clothes that covered them.
‘Quick’ cried Christopher; ‘to the lake before those awful animals get back’ they rushed to the water’s edge and the feelings of wonder and fear filled their thoughts. What if their desires were not noble and true, they would become the very image of their inner thoughts. However both longed to return to human form. They stopped, knelt beside the lake and cupped the crisp water over their tired faces. Three times this needed to be done and then they opened their eyes. The still lake acted as a mirror to them and they saw their new reflection. Christopher had returned his former size and bear to the man he also wanted to be.
They spent a short while rejoicing in each other’s happiness but knew time was short; Christopher scooped up some water in a bottle he spotted in the woman’s house. Now with his full stride back it wasn’t long until they found the trail to snake’s abode. They both saw her at once, dragging herself over the icy ground, her fur defiled, her eyes fading. Blood and pain seemed to entwine themselves around her body and they fear the worst. Bunny collapsed in a heap, her eyes closing and the gentle beating of heart slowing in his frequency. Snake had taken nearly everything from her; he had dragged her from the heights of euphoria in their early days to the bottomless lows of the present.
ReplyDeleteBoth Bear and the man broke out in tears.
‘Christopher, pour the water over her face...do it now!’ He searched frantically for it but it was nowhere to be found. It must have fallen out onto the ground. Bear slumped in a heap, his hands supporting his heavy head. Christopher, again, lifted bunny into his hands but this time she was all but gone.
‘Snow bunny, I am too late aren’t I? Why is it that this should happen to you? Such a rare species, none other quite like you and yet wasted, ruined and now gone!’ He retrieved the pendant from his pocket, thankfully this had lasted the journey. Gently placing it over her slumped head a tear trickled from his eye. The steady stream of tears mingled with the moisture that still remained on his face and both rivulets made their way onto the pendant and face of bunny. He placed her down and went to console the Bear.
Bear opened his eyes, ‘Look! Look Christopher,’ turning around bunny was no longer there but instead a lady purer than snow. She spoke....
Her breath came out in hardly as whisper. Her long golden hair blew in the breeze framing her face with a complexion as fine as pure porcelain. Her lips had lost their color and had taken on a slightly bluish tint. Erethreal is more defining of her presence. Th rest of the congregated animals stood in awe and a silence fell upon the woods awaiting her spoken words. " I came to these woods looking for love. A love that would cradle my heart and protect me forever. Sometimes we seek love in the wrong places. Yet there are other times we aren't even looking for it and somehow it finds us. Catches us unaware, as we drift aimlessly through life. I have been lucky to follow my heart to this wondrous and magical place What it had taken away it has given me back. I have learned that love can take many forms. Some teach us to deal with the hurt and loneliness, if only temporary . The deeper the love, the greater the hurt. Yet there is another form of love, one that withstands the test of time. It comes to us at a different pace..slower in it's approach yet more infinite throughout its journey. You , my dear friends have gifted me this love. Embraced me in my most vulnerable form and accepted me for who I was. You saw in me the beauty of my character that lay underneath a coat of mangled fur. I have learned from each of you and have grown as a person in your midst. Thank you all for everything you have given to me and opening my heart to love once again.
ReplyDeleteoops first line should read came out in hardly a whisper not as
ReplyDelete