Chapter 115: The Stag

“You must sit still as a great tree, rooted and observing all around you.” My father whispers as we sit perched in a blind.

“Even trees bend to the will of the wind.” I whisper, smiling at my profound thought.

He chuckles softly at my bold retort. “You must listen first, my child. Learn the world before you begin to be a critical observer.”

“Shouldn’t you also be silent?” I ask with wicked innocence, my youthful smirk revealing the jab.

My father grumbles in agreement. In the early morning just as the sun begins to rise, I see only glimpses of his face cloaked in shadows. The glint of his eyes. The whites of his teeth when he flashes a smile.

I spot the herd. I pull out my bow and get into position, ready myself to spot my mark. A large doe makes her way into the meadow first. Her timid stare searching for possible danger.

“Never take the lead doe. She is the matriarch. The one that keeps this group tethered to one another.” My father murmurs. His voice so low even I strained to