She saw the preying mantis as she dusted her bedroom. It was trapped on the
windowsill. She opened the window to release it. It fluttered forward then
turned.

Thank you. I owe you one.

She was surprised, a talking mantis, who had ever heard of such a thing.

I didn't know you could talk, she said. The mantis had a low musical voice, a
feminine voice.

Oh yes, said the mantis, I can talk. Instead of going out of the window, it flew
to the table. In fact, I haven't spoken to a h

The park entrance was opposite a fast food joint. The sign said 'Experience
nature, guided tours arranged'
He crossed the road and went in. There was no one behind the desk. 'Hullo' he
shouted. No response. 'Hullo' again. No on appeared. He was about to leave when
a woman came in through the door.

She was tall with dark skin, and well built, buxom almost. She stood taller than
he did. Her dress was tight on her body and came to mid thigh. It appeared to be
made of shimmering snake