The Hunt
Silence.
Shadows in the trees.
Golden eyes shining through the bushes.
Fear.
Nervous stomping.
A young one snorts in distress.
Attack!
Howls interrupt the moaning wind.
Swift grey feet leap over white powder.
Panic!
The defensive circle breaks.
Courage stumbles and is trampled beneath sharp hooves.
Chase!
Flickering shadow-killers speed into the chaos.
They search for one they can bring down.
Terror.
A figure limps, hoping it won't be noticed.
It's leg drags and will not work.
Victory!
Sharp weapons jump.
Thick hide tears, scarlet blood sprays.
Pain.
The figure gives a wail of agony.
Its ripped guts spill out onto the frosty white blanket.
Hunger.
The meat stops struggling.
The hunters crouch to chew their meal.
Silence.
Shadows on the ice.
Blood in the snow.
Empty bellies are filled.
Copyright 1997
Alaisha Makalaster