Willows

Malalia was quick to add her weight to the struggle, and as she got her first bite, Cairo was able to adjust his hold as the deer buckled. He gained his own paws and dug in, jerking hard to keep the buck from regaining his feet.

Malalia released and captured the buck’s throat with her next bite, and Cairo threw his weight across the buck’s shoulders, holding it down as their prey struggled with steadily weakening vigor.

He kept his grip until he heard the heart stop beating and saw the eyes dull over Malalia’s head. When he saw the glazing eyes, he released the deer and worked his tongue in his jaws to evict the fur from his teeth and grinning at the girl.

“Well hunted, Lia.” The nickname fell easily from his tongue – a bit easier than her actual name – and was heavy with approval as he rose and shook out his coat, armor rattling slightly before he twisted to study the cut on his hip. It was a decent gash, but he would be just fine.

Stretching out his neck he grinned down at her and announced cheerfully, “Deer skinning one oh one begins now.”

He grabbed hold of one front leg and dragged the buck onto its back and smiled at her, tail wagging. “Ready?”

Walk ---- "Speak" ---- "Hear" ---- Think