Hooved Mammals

Coming around a bend, and settling bedside a massive boulder. Azoula was prepared to wait out an opportunity to strike, having selected her prey among the herd- a female antelope, who looked ravaged from the depravities of a buck in their breeding season. Surely, she would be doing it a favor? Licking her lips, she settled down into the grasses- pulling her limbs close to her body, coiling the strength in her hind, readying herself to spring forward at a moment's notice.

But then she saw him- a quick flash of crimson, so bright against a backdrop of earthen colors. His scent prevailed even beyond the wet sod smell of the rain- alerting her to his presence, before he made a bird-like noise. Trying to get her attention. Shifting slightly, Azoula twisted her skill to settle her gaze on the boy- volcanic pools of orange roving across his young frame, noting that he was just a pup. Was he hungry? Intrigued? Filled with bloodlust? She would never know unless she invited him over. Admittedly, she had a soft spot for children- even young mutts. With a flick of an ear, she beckoned him forward- allowing him to join her hunt, to infiltrate her space, if he wished it.  

"Azoula Davati"