Blood Moon Rising

Chapter 7: The Hunt Begins

Excitement buzzed in the air as the Silver Moon Pack gathered at the edge of the forest. After an entire day of rest, Karina was back again to training with Tobias in the past days. Today was Karina's first official hunt with the pack, a rite of passage that filled her with both anticipation and nervousness. She stood among the pack members, her senses heightened as they prepared for the hunt ahead.

Caius stood at the front, his presence commanding respect and admiration amongst the pack members. He addressed the pack with a steady voice, silencing the excited crowd, outlining the plan for the hunt. "Today, we'll be tracking a herd of deer that has been spotted nearby by our patrollers. Our goal is to secure enough meat for the pack and to ensure a successful hunt."

The pack members nodded in understanding, their expressions focused and determined to bring success for today’s hunt. Karina glanced around, a smile formed on her lips, noting the camaraderie and unity among them. She felt a surge of pride to be a part of such a cohesive group.

"Tobias and Liam, you'll take the lead," Caius instructed, gesturing to two seasoned hunters. "Karina, Maris, and I will follow closely behind. Remember, teamwork and communication are key to a successful hunt. Remember your trainings and be careful."

They set off into the forest, moving swiftly and silently, avoiding alarming the possible prey nearby. The cool morning air was filled with the earthy scent of pine needles and the faint rustling of leaves underfoot. Karina kept close to Maris and Caius, her senses alert for any sign of movement.

As they walked, Caius shared insights about tracking and hunting techniques, his words a blend of instruction and encouragement. Karina listened attentively, absorbing his wisdom and guidance for her to be able to use them when she needed it. She admired Caius's leadership skills, his ability to command respect while fostering a sense of unity among the pack.

After a while, they reached a clearing where fresh deer tracks crisscrossed the forest floor. Tobias knelt down, examining the tracks with a trained eye. "They passed through here not long ago," he whispered, his voice barely audible.

Karina felt as shiver on her skin as she felt presence of innocence not far from them. Bewildered by the senses she had, she kept quiet and followed the group closely.

Caius nodded, his gaze sweeping the area. "Let's split into two groups to flank them. Karina, you'll stay with me and Maris."

Karina felt a surge of excitement and nervousness as they moved deeper into the forest. The thrill of the hunt mingled with a sense of responsibility to contribute to the pack's success. She focused on maintaining her composure, following Caius and Maris's lead with determination as she felt the presence getting closer as they move.

They walked in silence, their footsteps soft and deliberate. The forest seemed to hold its breath as they approached a dense thicket. Suddenly, Maris held up a hand, signaling for them to stop. She pointed ahead, her eyes gleaming with anticipation.

"There," Maris whispered, her voice tinged with excitement. "I see movement."

Karina followed her gaze, spotting a group of deer grazing peacefully in a sun-dappled clearing. Her heart raced with adrenaline as Caius motioned for them to move closer. It was her first time seeing such creature up close, she felt honored. They crouched low, using the terrain to their advantage as they crept towards their prey.

Karina was amazed when she realized it was the deer, she had sense.

The deer remained unaware of their presence, their senses dulled by the tranquility of the forest. Karina felt a surge of respect for the majestic creatures, marveling at their grace and beauty. Yet, she knew that this hunt was essential for the pack's survival, thus they have to take them for the pack.

With a nod from Caius, they sprang into action. Tobias and Liam launched a coordinated attack from one side, startling and driving the deer towards Caius, Karina, and Maris. Karina felt her instincts take over as they closed in on their chase.

In a flurry of movement and precision, Caius struck with swift accuracy, bringing down the lead deer with a well-aimed single blow. Karina and Maris followed suit, their actions synchronized as they secured the remaining prey. It was a successful hunt. A display of teamwork and skill, each member contributing.

As they gathered around the fallen deer, Karina felt a deep sense of satisfaction and pride. Her first hunt with the pack was a success. She hadn’t burden anyone or get in their way, she instead contributed to the success of it. The pack members congratulated each other, their voices filled with praise and camaraderie. Caius approached Karina with a smile, his eyes reflecting pride and approval.

"Well done, Karina," Caius said warmly. "This is your first hunt with us, and you've already proven yourself a valuable member of the pack."

Karina's heart swelled with gratitude. "Thank you, Caius. It means a lot."

The hunt had not only provided food for the pack but had also strengthened the bonds among its members. As they made their way back to the settlement, Karina felt a force pulling her. It wasn’t strong but it kept her distracted. As she looked at the lifeless body of the deer, something inside her ignited, but she chooses to ignore it and set it aside. She looked at the smiling faces of the team. She felt a deep sense of belonging. She had found her place within the Silver Moon Pack, a community where she was valued and respected, unknown emotion and forces isn’t welcome. She will cherish what she has now. Every people in her life, every event that happened, every situation she was in, and she will be. She will hold on to the present and hope that her future will be as bright, as calm and as precious as it is.