when i run through the deep dark forest long after this has begun,
The sound of the tiger’s roar resonates in Dayé’s chest - the mere thrum of it pulsates like a living thing throughout the forest, and though the haunting howl of a wolf (and even when they echo in a chorus) stirs turmoil within prey's hearts, there is something entirely feral and fierce that clings to the hollows of Sochi’s voice, leaving the wolf to feel the natural prick of the fur rising on her neck.
Heavy footfalls announce the tiger’s presence while the wolf clings to the shadow and darkness around them, flitting through bramble and brush and rock with keen eyes and sharp nostrils. The duo moves together as naturally as any two predators would, despite the huge gaps in their different species. The horse spirit within them allows this interaction, moving together seamlessly and effortlessly, all together wordlessly.
Their movement awakens the once silent forest; small rodents and hares jump away from their presence, but they are not in search for small game. Dayé has other plans, other goals, for her hunt today that will for once not be solitary. It seems that the tiger has the same idea, because both of the hunters slow skillfully at the sudden scent of deer, lowering themselves and pausing with trembling anticipation. Dayé’s dark brown eyes immediately lock with the stag of the group, brilliant antlers protruding like never ending spires from his forehead. There is a soft huff, thoughtful and quiet. By herself she is no match for even the smallest and weakest doe, or even the fawns that are most likely hidden away in the brush of the forest. But with the tiger, her options have just now been widened.
Sochi’s mass and bulk gives the tiger the obvious advantage at such an exploration, and with a curt nod towards her hunting partner, the wolf decides to lie in wait while the tiger makes the first move, poised and ready to take on whatever vulnerabilities the deer will present once taken by the feline.
Dayé
where the sun would set, trees are dead, and the rivers were none.
