Aurora Magazine 2017

Karen Munoz The Life Tree

The ragged breathing of Aurora Cousland became frantic every time she heard the crunch of the fall leaves and heavy footsteps intensify loudly behind her. All this running had a dizzying effect, producing a stomach-churning sensation, as foliage flew by in both directions. She had been on the run for hours, losing her bearings almost completely. Her own knowledge about her surroundings were few, for no one had ever reached the Kalcari Wilds alive. Only one thing she had known for sure; she could never return home. Home was not an option, especially after this morning. All lines of thought left her as the ensnaring tree roots clutched at her aching feet, causing her to tumble down a steep slope. She continued down the incline at a brisk rate, limbs entangled together, prohibiting her from regaining her sense of balance. Head spinning, she had finally come to a full stop, nearly crashing into a bulky tree as she did so. Exhausted, uncomfortable, and out of breath, Aurora lay unmoving on the forest floor as she steadied her breathing. Gradually, she came to the realization of her muted surroundings. The silence confirmed that her pursuers had either left her for dead or had lost her when she fell. Breathing out a sigh of relief, she stood up and took in the unfamiliar environment. Standing, she studied the circle of trees around her. Shades of emerald hung off of every branch of these colossal trees, like ribbons shifting in the wind. The sky darkened to a murky blue-gray, as the night gradually drew in. Aurora decided to camp for the night, for she could no longer see the route in front of her. Pulling her pack from her back, she rummaged inside for blankets to rest on. After arranging her sleeping place, she drew bread from her pack and began to eat ravenously. She washed it down with a swig from her canteen, and lay down to slumber. Soon enough, she was no longer conscious to all around her, as she passed into a deep sleep and began to dream. The morning was a relatively normal one. The only thing

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