Kintla Flatlands Taking a Break

"All right, let's go get 'em," Koda said, heading in the direction Vector had indicated. They maintained their course for some time, then the herd finally came into sight as they crested a small hill. Koda bent low, using the grass to conceal himself. They were down wind of the herd, so as long as they kept quiet and out of sight, they wouldn't have to worry about being detected.

Koda's yellow eyes flicked from deer to deer, examining each and quickly taking note of it's apparent health and fitness. Most of the herd was young, but there were a number of individuals bedded down in the grass that looked older and in pretty bad shape. If predators didn't take their lives, the coming winter surely would.

Then, Koda's gaze settled on him. A beautiful 8-point buck, a magnificent stag in the prime of his life. He was the protector of this herd, ready to defend them with his very life.

The gray wolf turned to his comrade. "You wanted a challenge," Koda's voice was a hoarse whisper, barely audible even to himself. "Take a look at that guy," he said, gesturing to the buck with his muzzle.