Dawnlark Plains XXXVIII

The hunters did not delay. Masquerade shepherded their younger siblings and trotted after them, keeping a slow and steady pace in the others’ wake. They wanted to watch—the hunt was quite the spectacle from the sidelines—but Masque ignored that temptation. They saw it unfold in brief glances, though largely their attention remained on the pups.

They were the Wealda’s children, thus they were obedient. But this also meant they were destined to be fierce hunters and warriors. They may be tempted to join the fray. Their time would come soon enough. One day, not long from now, they would be thrown into the mix. But today, it was all about watching and learning.

See how Augur directs them? He is Ulfhedinn, leader of the hunt, Masque commentated. Our mother, Wealda, is leader of all. She is the Alpha female. When they fell the bison, she will eat first. Perhaps the other pack’s leader will join her, then the rest of us will eat. There will be plenty for all.

Masque had no doubt they would succeed. Bison were formidable prey, yet with the combined strength of two packs, the Caru felt whichever bovine they targeted didn’t stand a chance.