Halfway there, he realized he wouldn't make it. The distance was just too much for his damaged leg. With a sigh, he fell to the ground. His only chance was to make himself as small as possible and hope the storm would end soon.
It didn't. The storm raged over top of him for what seemed like hours. He was buffeted about like a doll, but at least he sustained no more injuries.
Eventually, he had no more energy to fight. It was time to give up and let the storm do as it would.
And then, a shadow appeared over him, and the rain and wind slowed. He looked to his side, only to see a slim hoof planted in the mud. His gaze travelled upwards into the belly of a tall neela.
The neela stayed that way, protecting the bird from the storm until it began to slow. A muzzle then appeared beside him, nudging him.
Seemingly happy with the signs of life being displayed, the neela grabbed a small pouch that had been tied to it’s leg and motioned for the bird to hop in. Not having much choice in the matter, the bird climbed into the pouch and felt himself being raised in the air, and then the neela picking up speed to a gallop.
When the neela finally stopped, the bird climbed out of the pouch and looked around at his new surroundings.
His leg was splinted and he took several weeks to recover. He had been taken to a large farm that was full of birds. It appeared that the neela had rescued many others like himself and had given them a place to heal. Eventually, his splint was removed and it was time for him to leave.
He flew off into the sunny skies, free once again.
overlay: frederick
profile: chi & Princess
story: Trithie
background by S. Kumar
lightning brush by scully