Tooth & Claw by Melody Hewson (classic literature list .TXT) 📖

swelling with love and respect for the beast, welcoming either fate from her as she judged his worth. Just beyond, the other pups continued to circle and growl, their heads lowered in confusion but ready to resume the chase at a moment's notice, but the pair gave them no further notice. The decision would be made solely between the two of them. Rotuk finally gave a small nod, as it accept the female's demand, and was finally rewarded by the soft caress of her warm tongue against his sliced palm. She then released his hand and turned on the remaining pups, snapping at them harshly to drive them away.

The brun's head was lifted high as he walked out of the corral, his hyolf pup walking by his side. He felt sure that there could be no greater joy than he felt at that moment. As the gate was closed behind them, his father walked up and placed his hands on his son's shoulders, then leaned in until their foreheads touched. This pose was only held for a moment before the elder brun took a step back. “Congratulations, Rotuk! You have made me and all of your clan proud this day!” He spoke loudly, the others gathered there cheering at his words. “There will be a feast tonight in your honor! May you bring honor to your name!”

“Thank you, Rok'Gnash Broketusk.” Rotuk replied, using his father's full name for the first time in his life. “May death itself flee in terror of your wrath.” And with the final formality spoken, the ceremony was over. Rotuk had survived his first trial. He was now a full brun of his clan and had a hyolf pup of his own to raise and to train.

As the others began to disperse to prepare for the evening's feast, Rotuk held out both of his hands and allowed his pup to eagerly lick the wounds clean for him. “Now then, girl, let's get you something to eat before you decide to make a meal out of me afterall.”

 

 

 Thank you for reading this short story! I hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. This short story is part of a series that I will be releasing as a prelude to my upcoming series, The Wolfcaller Chronicles, which takes place in a strange and faraway land full of alien creatures and interesting races like those mentioned in this story. If you enjoyed young Rotuk's tale keep an eye out for book one of The Wolfcaller Chronicles, coming soon! And please remember to leave a review.

 

 

Imprint

Text: Melody Hewson
Images: Melody Hewson
Editing: Melody Hewson
Translation: n/a
Publication Date: 03-15-2013

All Rights Reserved

Dedication:
Dedicated to Nadirah Wolfcaller.