Kate followed a sick caribou that was trailing behind the massive herd. (Hiding in some nearby bushes was Humphrey waiting to help his mate if needed) He was an ancient bull; his antlers were impressive and she knew if he was healthy he could easily clomp her on the head and kill her. Or worse stab her and tear her to pieces with those large antlers.

But the caribou was old, the muscles in his legs just seemed too tired to carry him through another winter. His antlers where white on the tips, and even the brown spots on his body showed white on the tips of the hairs. The old toro lay down;...