Jade Fern Grove entrée

The element of surprise was gone - the herd began to move, circling away from the bright white blur coming up from the west. Scimitar moved into position, readying himself for the moment when the spooked animals broke into a hard run in his direction. Bazi would bring up the rear, herding stragglers and keeping the panic levels high.

The weaker animals made themselves known immediately. Two lagged behind - one older, one subtly injured - struggling at the back of the group. Bazi picked up her pace, snapping at the maimed animal's flank, narrowly avoiding a kick to the head. She had made her choice; younger meat was preferred.