Swiftcurrent Creek run, rabbit

she paced the river, one vole already hanging from her jaws and gaze peeled for more. she'd grasped this one too harshly, apparently, for it had died quickly. a dead piece of prey wasn't going to cut it, however, for she wanted her children to learn hunting, not scavenging. 

and thus she continued her careful stalk, gaze peeled for any sign of movement along the creek. her gaze flickered to insects, dancing dapples of sunlight and the gentle brush of reeds, but had yet to come to rest on anything remotely appetizing. pausing, she inspected a faded trail that led to the river through the tall grasses. recognizing the scent of muskrat, she waited a moment longer in the off chance it still frequented the area before moving on.

A small habit had formed for the boy — a sense of attachment, a forlorn feeling whenever he was apart from his family for any length of time. Stone wasn't as stalwart as his name might have suggested but he made do; today, he followed his mother around whether she wanted him to or not. He knew that she was busy, and it wasn't like he was trying to screw up whatever she was doing, but... He also knew that the longer he stuck around mom, the sooner he'd find his sister, or his father. Keeping tabs on his parents was difficult on most days and Stone was thankful that Dawn was keeping herself close to the riverside. He bumbled along after her with a lack of grace, and an outright lack of stealth, while she hunted further upriver.

It did not take long for her to notice him - his careless steps coupled with her own alertness in her search made sure of that. she paused, peering over her shoulder, easy smile on her muzzle. she may not be able to see him clearly yet, but the swaying reeds were a clear indication of his exact location. she called to him, a low sound that beckoned him near, and dropped the vole by her paws. it was his, if he wanted it, but her plan to catch something alive was waylaid. a few more lessons ought to be taught, she reckoned, before letting him at living prey.