16 June 2012
I ran; ran until my legs gave way to sheer exhaustion. My heart
was pounding like there was some sort of beast in it that was trying to pummel it's way out with angry fists. My golden hair fell around my face as I knelt on the grassy ground, gasping for breath. I had done it. I had escaped the castle.
After a few moments, I had regained myself. I directed my eyes from the ground and let them explore this unknown area. I hadn't a clue where I was, I had just run wherever I could. The forest was lush and undisturbed. Sunlight pushed it's way through the leafy canopy and danced on the ground to the tune of merry birds singing. I smiled brightly, and lifted a hand into the air, plucking a bright red flower from a tree. I twirled it in my hand, then scattered the delicate petals on the floor. The grass was long and wavy, and I knelt down to take off my shoes to feel it on my skin. It was glorious. My feet thudded softly on the ground as I spotted a single stag stood only a few centimeters away behind a tree. His eyes scanned me cautiously, and I smiled at his curiosity as he came closer. As he stepped from the shade, I realized he was entirely white, with startling blue eyes. "It is okay, I will not harm you" I said, trying to reassure it. I bowed before it. Id always thought of them as king of the woods, with their crown of huge antlers. The stag reached out his nose and snuggled my face timidly. Ever so slowly, I reached out my hand and trailed it down his noble face. Behind him, I could see a beautiful pool with lily pads and golden fish. I began to walk towards it, the stag trailing in my small footsteps. I knelt beside the water and stuck my finger in, drawing patterns. It was cool and refreshing, and I longed to swim with those fishes. A single swan appeared from behind a clump of reeds and glided into the water elegantly.
I couldn't help myself. I pushed myself into the water, and gasped at how cold it was. I chased the fishes, diving down to play. They were like a rainbow as they darted to and thro in their schools, their mixture of colours like a piece of fine artwork. I relaxed against the side of the pool, the stag watching me from afar. I watched the swan as he settled down on the shore and the forest began to darken. The essence of the forest was so relaxing and calm. I was in utter paradise.
Paradise • Opuss № I