Sheepeater Cliff death is only the end if you assume the story is about you

Heda nods and steps forward. Étoille falls into position beside her, his steps light despite his massive size, letting her take the lead. They bare down on the bird - and it takes off, letting loose an ear-piercing screech. That is the easiest outcome, and Étoille supposes not long ago he would have been pleased. Now, though, he feels a slight sting of disappointment at the lack of challenge. Growth is an odd thing.

Well. 

The kill is theirs. The Rauna defers to Heda as they fall into it, joining only after she has eaten first. It is, if nothing else, an auspicious sign on this hopefully short trip.