Hidden in the trees

It is easy to separate their target from the rest of the herd and Tove breaks off to follow while Kichi stays to deter any would-be followers. Legs stretch as the deer tries to outpace the older, scarred wolf but quickly finds that she is just as spry as a predator half her age. It snorts in fear as she races along behind it, snarling and snapping at back legs to keep it going. Kichi reappears and Tove changes positions, moving up alongside the prey to get a good angle on the neck.

It takes the gray male three attempts but he makes the deer stumble and that is all the older wolf needs as she launches up toward the sweet spot near the hollow of the neck. Tove’s teeth sink into the soft flesh and it grunts as she does not release her hold, instead using her body weight to drag the deer to the ground. Once it is sprawled on in the dirt, she tightens her grip on the neck and tosses her head back, ripping open all the vital things in its neck. It kicks out, its body fighting death as long as it is able to.

Finally, it stills and Tove turns her duel-toned eyes to Kichi, offering him a grin of thanks.


"Tove Baade"