Wandering through greenery
in search of a prize,
eyes peeled for signs of change—
her mind is empty as her focus hones.

Why—
what do you gain from
wandering?
Aimless in the heat
surrounded by biting bugs
and blazing beats of sunshine.

What prize is there
to be found among the trees?

She doesn’t understand it
entirely
herself.
The draw of the warm air,
the smell of the water
of the river nearby,
the dulling of her vision that comes
with the brightest light of the day.

All lead to the smallest victory.
A nameless mushroom,
squat and grey,
hidden against the trunk of a
Russian Olive tree.

What is it that draws her in?

Drive,
wonder,
and her own fairy experience.