'Now we will see what happens to those foolish enough to cross
him!'
*
The Mantis remained motionless, breathing hard. Though capable of
flying great distances, the sheer weight of its body made such journeys
an exhausting ordeal. He was weary to his very heart. But the Mantis
was also a master of stamina and self-discipline. He knew he had only
to rest a short time and his strength would come back to him.
He had landed on the ridge intentionally. It had been many days since
he last slept in the cave, and he wanted to be sure there was no danger.
Not that he was afraid---in his conscious thought he feared nothing. He
simply had no desire to encounter a powerful enemy before regaining his
full strength. But as the breaths began to come easier, he felt his
antennae tingling with anticipation. Somewhere. . .somewhere near, he
sensed the presence of a spider. The vibrations seemed to come from the
direction of his cave.
Realizing the failing light worked against him, he knew he would have to
act quickly. Unfurling his four translucent wings, he lifted himself
slowly into the air. Hovering closer, he searched for clues while
reading the subtle currents of air that curled gently across the
windface. He stopped once in mid-air, turned, then surrendering to wind
and gravity, swooped down upon the broad ledge that bordered the
entrance of the cave.
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