“A good traveler has no fixed plans
and is not intent upon arriving.
A good artist lets his intuition
lead him wherever it wants.
A good scientist has freed herself of concepts
and keeps her mind open to what is.”
Lao Tse, the old master
 
Many years ago in a land not so far away there lived five animal lords. There were of course many other animals, maybe even other noble animals such as these, but our story only concerns these five. These five were special because they embodied the very best of their particular animal nature. There was Lord Tiger who was fierce and strong, yet also quiet and stealthy. Lady Crane, who was fast and agile, yet could soar all day on the South Winds. King Snake, who was patient and poisonous and able to strike without a moment's notice. Queen Turtle who was long lived and deep breathing, wise and calm, whose shell was so strong that nothing could ever pierce it. Last of all there was Monkey, the most cunning and brilliant mind the world had yet seen. 
 
This story is not set in my cyberpunk world and is a stand alone work intended for all ages. There is some threat and conflict between animals so is probably not appropriate for very young readers.
 
~9000 words