13. The Straight and Narrow
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Having convinced herself that a calm and non-aggressive approach would yield a safe passage, Rosella
smoothed out her skirt, put her chin forward, and gracefully took measured steps toward the swaying cobra.
While her face showed a mask of confidence mastered through years of royal upbringing, the princess’s heart
pounded with overwhelming anxiety.
She held her breath as she got near the snake, shortening her steps even further so as not to spook any
reactions into the watchful creature. It didn’t seem quite possible, but she was certain that she was within
reach of a wicked strike, and yet the snake passively swayed, seemingly unthreatened by the slender girl.
Rosella closed her eyes exhaling a sigh of relief as she passed the deadly snake.
Unknown to the princess, her “luck” was merely the result of the hunting instincts of the snake. It was so
lucky to have this delicious looking ankle walk right past, that it savored the moment. And then it struck.
The deadly sharp fangs cut through her stocking clad ankle like it was a spider’s web. The surprised
princess let out a shriek of pain as she collapsed to the ground in delirious weakness. Rosella whimpered
as the poison went to work on her while the cobra slithered up to her ear laid out next to her like a third
braid, hissing in her ear as if to remind her of the stupidity of her actions. So much for saving Tamir.
Who's going to save YOU!?