The capybara seems more distressed by the minute. I tilt my ears in concern. Maybe it needs to eat? What in the world do these little squealing things eat? Mother would know. I am convinced she knows everything. Or at least everything worth knowing.
"Oh yes!" I say eagerly, pawing the ground excitedly, and eyeing the little creature with sympathy. "That is, if you know where he lives? I don't know the Jungle very well yet myself."
After all, I have heard there is a hippo and crocodiles and all kinds of amazing animals. It wouldn't be very nice if I led the other filly and the young capybara into the jaws of a predator!
"Hello Vi!" I pause then, uncertain. Mother has told me not to tell anyone where I used to live. She says it is safer. I wonder what harm it would do to tell Vi that I once had a different maman. I swish my tail, hesitant, and then speak steadily. "No. The Jungle is my home. Lagertha, the Khaleesi, is my mother."
The lie does not roll off my tongue easily. (although I do not consider the second and third statement to be lies.) The Jungle is my home and Lagertha is my mother. But I am from somewhere else. I don't like lying, but I don't want to disobey.
I brighten, smiling with curiosity. "Who is your mama? Would she let you play with me and explore? I've been hoping for a girl friend!"
the jungle princess