It was not
because of him that the herd-leader had spoken in warning. Another
buck, younger but nearly equal in girth, had come upon him, and thought
to steal away his harem. In this he was premature, since neither doe
nor female fawn would be ready to mate until Spring. But such mistakes
are often made, born of the cold and bitter isolation of a solitary
male in Winter.
Nature plays no favorites, nor does the hungry predator. The females
had seen the big cat's approach, and with their young fled swiftly
and silently into the wood, leaving the two bulls locked in oblivious
combat. The tiger leapt over a fallen tree, forgetting his pain, and
charged across the open space toward them.
The herd leader saw him coming, and stepped back. The young male in his
blind fury did not, and perceiving hesitation on the part of his
opponent, thought to charge again. It was his last mistake. The tiger
leapt full upon him, knocking him to the ground, and before the buck
knew what had happened, his throat was held fast and his life's blood
ebbing.
The herd leader turned quickly to see what had become of his charge,
then with a last look at the predator and his fallen foe, moved to join
them. He did not run blindly, nor fully turn his back. But neither did
he dare a brave show.
Pages:
187
188
189
190
191
192
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
202
203
204
205
206
207
208
209
210
211