The caravan slows to a languid pace. Like a mirage, time disappears. Appears. Disappears again. Contrition hangs heavy on his neck He should have known better. He missed being caressed by the ocean’s arms Preternatural elements Gently guiding the dinghy on open waters. He clings to the delicious tonic like lichen latched on a boulder In the distance he sees a seductive figure of an oasis. Desire is a dangerous expedition.
Tonic – a medicinal substance taken to give a feeling of vigor or well-being. / giving a feeling of vigor or well-being; invigorating/1st Degree of a scale
Languid – drooping or flagging from or as if from exhaustion/sluggish in character or disposition / lacking force or quickness of movement
Lichen – a simple slow-growing plant that typically forms a low crustlike, leaflike, or branching growth on rocks, walls, and trees
Caravan – a company of travelers on a journey through desert or hostile regions also : a train of pack animals / a group of vehicles traveling together (as in a file) / : a covered wagon or motor vehicle equipped as traveling living quarters
Preternatural – existing outside of nature/exceeding what is natural or regular / : inexplicable by ordinary means
Contrition – : feeling or showing sorrow and remorse for a sin or shortcoming
Dinghy – a small boat for recreation or racing, especially an open boat with a mast and sails.