Fighting Like Cats And Dogs

Winter has chilled the air, brought snow to many lands, and driven prey further south. Always up for an adventure, Calico Jack had set out toward the west to find new places… and he finds a small paradise. The bite of winter is less here and the boy happily notices that the grass is still green while there are no traces of white powder clinging to the ground. Paws pull the almost yearling to the sandy shore of a long, winding river as the sparkling water beckons him to come and quench his thirst. Eyes scan the area, searching for any threats before he steps up to the cool water’s edge. Satisfied that the area is safe, the tall boy lowers his head and pulls a long drink from the river, enjoying the feel of the cold-water trace through his insides.

A sound catches his ear and Jack lifts his head, water droplets falling from lips as he does so. Pale blue eyes turn to find a large tiger stalking toward the young wolf. The feline had been completely silent, tracking him like the great hunter it is. Their eyes meet and the beast flicks its ear in irritation that it has been spotted but does not back down. Calico Jack wheels around, squaring up the huge cat as it continues toward him and he is unwilling to go down without a fight. The pup bristles, growling at the feline as it moves toward him and he realizes that the tiger isn’t stopping. Without warning, the tall boy rushes forward, snapping at the cat’s face and earning a hiss and swipe of deadly claws.

The cat and wolf circle each other, looking for openings to exploit as neither predator is willing to back down.


"Calico Jack"