Can't go back now

"Mmm," he murmured in agreement. "Good choice." The older elk was long past its prime. The age was evident in the gray about its snout that bled into other areas around its body. Those silver hues were clue enough. The way the herd seemed to separate, as though giving it space to respectfully pass on its own time was clue too. It may once have led victoriously, but that elk no longer held the same standing within the herd. It could not support them any longer. They cared less about it than before.

Iqniq trained his eyes upon the elk as the dark wolf spoke of his plan. He nodded in agreement. If that is what the wolf wished to try, they could definitely make that happen. True to the instruction, Iqniq slipped to the side and positioned himself in the grasses. He'd watch and wait for the opportunity the wolf had described and help from there as felt natural.

And the wolf was off! The herd startled. It split in different directions before tuning in to one another and fleeing as a group. The older elk trailed. The dark wolf ran alongside it and Iqniq moved, joining the wolf in the chase so he might come alongside it as instructed. He harassed it a bit, nipping at the elk's side and haunches as together they wore it out. Then the wolf sprang and that was his cue to take action.

He sprang, launching himself at the elk from the side. He grappled with it, locking his teeth around the thick fur at its neck and clasping down. Hard. The elk stumbled. He twisted with it, refusing to give up his claim on the neck as he tore flesh from the ancient beast. He dove in again, clasping down where his grip was lost as he danced to avoid flailing limbs. This wolf had set things up perfectly and now the elk breathed its last and fell still.

He released his grip and stepped back. He panted as his tongue rolled. It was hot and that chase had been short, but good. Iqniq gave himself a moment to catch his breath before looking to the wolf. "You did well. Do you have a name?"