Drema: The Crimson Moon

The Krushi

Lilly carefully submerged her waterskin within the Swift River.  The powerful currents threatened to dislodge the leather container from her clawed fingertips.  The tigress removed the vessel and consumed an immense portion before refilling it.  She completed her task and returned the leather jug to her satchel.

An inhospitable jungle consumed the eastern bank of the river.  The desolate grasslands Lilly had been journeying throughout continued to expand northward upon the western side.  Traveling long distances at a time without resting had put the tigress far from her father's camp, however it meant her eyes were hanging heavy with sleep.

Despite her fatigued state she forced herself onward, allowing herself onto rest late during the night.  The river had provided an invaluable natural guide as it led her northward towards the Whisperwind Palace.  There were still several weeks ahead before she would set eyes upon the arcane charged castle.

Lilly took notice as several colorful jungle beasts burst through the trees, flying across the river into the rock land beyond.  Occasionally these creatures would leave the forest to hunt or escape predators.  Judging by their frantic behavior there was likely a terrible carnivorous beast perusing them.

The sound of thunder echoed throughout the dense trees, but there were no storm clouds in side.  A massive hooved and horned beast emerged from the swirling blackness of the Crimsonleaf Jungle.  It's scaly green skin reflected beautifully in the morning sunlight.  It's fanged muzzle snarled and spat as it approached the river.

Although its airborne pray had escaped the krushi found itself in the presence of something not so far out of reach.  Lilly's heart beast faster as she noticed its eyes trailing on her.  Drawing her sword and battling the creature would be pointless as it is faster and stronger.  Outrunning the creature was impossible, its formidable speed and Lilly's fatigued state would ensure her death.

The north flowing churning river between them separated the newfound opponents, but it wouldn't for much longer.  As Lilly scanned her surroundings her eyes fell upon the Swift River and a dangerous idea flooded her mind.

Fighting the krushi would result in her death, but the river would afford her a small chance of survival.  Lilly pattered her sides, making sure her weapon and satchel were securely attached to her belt.

She dashed for the water's edge, tucking her arms and legs into herself as she leapt the air.  With a powerful and jarring splash the tigress disappeared beneath the roiling water.  Moments later her head resurfaced, gasping for breath.

Although the krushi was strong enough to wade through the water without being washed away, it wasn't fast enough to keep pace with it.  The beast stamped its hooved front leg as Lilly disappeared into the distance.

Battling to stay afloat was arduous, but manageable for someone with sufficient rest.  The surprisingly chilly water coupled with this was lulling the feline into an undesired sleep.  She needed to remain awake for slumber could increase her chances of death.  Her death would defeat her machinations against her father without question.  She hadn't managed to gather any allies that would continue her cause in her absence.

Fortunately the river's swift current had reduced any jagged rocks beneath its surface to dust. With bleary eyes she frantically searched the banks for fallen branches to latch into.  The sides were devoid of branches and Lilly's heart sank because of this.

Lilly was aware her exertions were futile, causing her to grow more tired with each swipe and thrust through the water.  Her eyelids threatened to close and her actions became sedate.  Eventually she could no longer struggle against the water's force and her body fell limp.