Little Inklings 2020-21

38 The glistening morning dew on the orchid plant dripped onto the soft soil. The crimson bromeliads stood out in the blur of rain forest green around it. A young Siberian tiger was resting, a few yards away from the rushing river. All seemed to be calm. The tiger opened her mouth, yawning. She bounded into the water, not caring that she was making a lot of noise. The tiger shook herself, cooling off from the intense heat of late July. Suddenly, leaves crunched - and the tiger sat up. Ears straining, she tried to discern what the noise was. Two human hunters emerged from the leaves, and the tiger ?s golden-brown eyes narrowed. Careful to be as quiet as possible, she rose onto all fours and crawled out of the river and behind a tree, preparing for a possible attack. Be still, quiet, and quick-witted , her mother always told her. Theywon?t notice you if you stay in the shadows. Don?t draw attention to yourself. Be still . The men looked around, pointing their rifles. BANG ! A shot rang out, hitting a spot a few inches from her tail. She curled it in slowly, reprimanding herself for not being more cautious. BeSti l l

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