The winter wind hit the penguin 

as it slid across the icy hill at

surprising speeds.

The emperor penguin trailed off in a hurry,

eager to find his next meal.

Breaking through the ice barrier,

the penguin’s sharp beak punctured a silverfish.

Waddling across the frozen land,

the penguin ventured out to find his family.

Their huddle keeps the warmth within them.

A milk-white egg lay between his protective feet,

awaiting his mate to return.

The penguin chick was born.

He dove into the glassy ocean,

desperate to find prey.

His beak caught the fish and swallowed it whole,

all while swimming back to his family.