The priestess glared at the hissing serpent, making the decision to use the creature. Snakes would be rare in Blackfeather, the lack of light was unappealing to reptiles. She could use its body in many ways; keep the head as a source of venom, use the scares in poultices. She was resourceful in that manner.
She prepared to strike when she noticed a rustle in the grass nearby, a black pelt in the greenery. The snake whirled around, detecting another threat. That was when Meldresi took the opportunity and dove forward, fangs sinking into the base of the head. The rattler squirmed futilely for a few moments before succumbing to death. That was when Meldresi finally realized who the dark form was. Ptarmigan.
"Greetings," she murmured around the limp snake's body before releasing it. "What brings you here?" She spoke with a calm and cordial manner; there was no need for hostilities, yet.
