Ouroboros Spine Waiting on that morning sun

she was like others. the desert was not a place for travelers looking to spend a pleasant holiday. but perhaps neither was the deep north where everything remained frozen over and wind chilled. everything had its drawbacks.

"water is scarce, rain can be rare and the water can dry up in just a few hours." those who controlled the waterways controlled life, after all. though, when times were tough, short-term peace treaties were made to ensure everyone had a chance to survive the abusive summers. "but with enough time and experience, you know where to look for it." the desert was a harsh climate, there was no doubt in her mind about this. yet there was still beauty within even the aridest of places.

"the fruit was special," she remembered how it would stain her lips for days on end, yet it filled her belly with a plump and sugary-sweet feeling, "cactus fruit. very sweet and colorful, but prickly on the outside. takes patience to learn how to prepare to eat it." meat was sometimes scarce at times, considering the fact that not too many large herbivores called the desert their home. the rabbit was quick, mice were tiny, and sheep were hard to come by. 

"i wish i could give it to you, it is sweeter than the berries here."