Time to begin

The chase starts and Fern is running as fast as she can. Rudy’s words ring in her head and she eases up, slowing to allow her healing shoulder the shorter movements it requires. The gray duo fall into rhythm, herding the deer ever closer to the snare. When Rudy’s bad leg gives out causing him to stumble, Fern almost gives up the chase to turn back and help him. Casting a worried glance back toward him, the gray girl sees him catch himself and he quickly continues on. Releasing the breath she had been holding, Fern turns her full attention back to the deer.

Soon the spot where they had laid the snare comes into view and Fern once more holds her breath, hoping this works. Luck is on their side as one of the deer’s back legs hit the trap and the rope snaps tight, pulling the deer to ground. Rudy’s grin and words has the gray girl chuckling as she moves toward the downed deer. Rudy’s words follow her and she nods, seeing the fear in the deer’s wide, rolling eyes. It struggles, trying to get back up and flee. Wild eyes see her approaching and the deer pants, slowing its frantic movements as it realizes its fate.

Fern does not draw out its death, swiftly moving toward its neck and placing a paw to pin the animal’s head down. Reaching toward its windpipe, Fern sinks her teeth in and pulls, blood spilling onto the dirt and leaves. Its death is as swift and merciful as she can make it. As she lifts her head up, Fern uses the paw that had its head down to pat the deer, whispering, “We thank you for life and the meat you give us. Be at peace now.” Clearing her throat, trying to hide the words she had said, Fern steps back, looking to Rudy and asks, “So, how did I do?” Tail wags lightly as she moves to Rudy’s side and awaits her evaluation.


"Speech"