All was quiet as Krest picked the final bone out of his evening meal. He held it in his mouth as he moved soundlessly to the mossy side of the cave. He lay down next to his mate, Fala, who had fallen asleep nuzzling their newborn sons, Ruse and Raque.
He had just settled himself when he heard suspicious rustling outside. Slowly, the great lion lifted his head. What he saw was a pair of golden eyes staring straight at him. It was obviously his pride-brother, Raek. He was always sneaking about, unwanted. This time, Krest was going to do something about it.
Krest sat on his haunches, perched, ready. Then, at the perfect moment, he pounced at Raek, flying through the air. Raek had no idea what was going on. He tried to evade the arieal attack, but to no avail. Krest landed flat on top of Raek’s back.
The enemy roared with frustration. the weight of the huge Krest was now crushing him. Krest took hold of Raek’s neck in his strong jaws and shook him back and forth. He finally rolled off his prey’s back, but, he was just quick enough to use his mighty claws to take hold of Raek’s throat and rip it in two. Blood poured everywhere on the makeshift battlefield.
It was then that Krest realized the battle was over. Raek tried to scream, but all that could be heard was a throaty groan. And Raek spoke.
“Don’t you think this is over, my friend. My family was always destined to rule this pride. You will see. My son will carry on my legacy. Whenever you look into his eyes, you will see me. I will haunt your dreams for all eternity! I will be avenged!”
His eyes seemed to glow for a moment before flickering shut for the last time.
Krest sighed a sigh of relief as he surveyed the land to be sure the other sleeping pride members hadn’t awoken. Then, he slipped back into his dark cave to get some well-earned rest for the night.