I stand alone in a mossy clearing. Above me hang the branches of ancient elms and gnarly oaks. Pockets of dappled sunlight filter through the canopy and dance upon the ground before me. Echoes of melodious birdsong descend from the boughs, accompanied by the background rustle of scampering squirrels and hurrying hedgehogs. To my delight a warm and gentle breeze stirs, bringing with it the heady scent of lilies and… cat breath?
‘Thump!’ I receive an almighty blow to the chest. ‘Thump!’ Another.
Befuddled by this phantom assault, I look around in the hope of finding an explanation. In the distance, through the thicket and brush, I hear a voice. Although it’s out of place in this enchanted forest it does seem rather familiar and I know I must listen. Whilst deep in concentration, a most odoriferous wave of warm pungent air blindsides me. Cat breath. Again. In the forest?
.:!:..:!:..:!:..:!:.
