She wasn’t a veteran explorer but she wasn’t a newbie either. She wouldn’t be an easy prey for any predator, she thought when she felt as if something was watching her. She cast her gaze all around her, determined not to be taken by surprise. And indeed, she saw no danger approaching her or hiding in the canopy. But so focused was she on what was around her that she neglected to look down at her own feet and only noticed the fresh buds and branches growing at rapid speeds when they had already wrapped themselves around her wrists and were slowly snaking up her leg.

It was only at this moment that the danger revealed itself. A dryad appeared before her as if she had sprouted from the ground right here, right now. The poor explorer was in shock but quickly tried to free herself from her binds. Her attempts only became more forceful and erratic as the dryad parted her lips and opened her mouth wide, making her intentions clear. No matter how much the explorer struggled, the plants would not give way. The hope slowly drained from her as the dryad moved ever closer, her tongue stretched out as if reaching for her prey.

“This is it, it’s over!” she thought as her hackles raised from the warm, sweet breath washing over her skin. Oh how right she was…

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This was December's Patron poll winner! I tried to implement more ambient light into my shading and I think it turned out well even if it is subtle.

I hope you guys like it and thank you to everyone who voted!

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