AILO (reindeers in Lapland.)

AILO (#2)

The herd of deer embarks on a long journey, destined for a distant valley where they will give birth to their young. However, Ailo's mother couldn't wait any longer; she broke away from the herd to give birth to Ailo. The pressure weighed heavily on her, knowing she couldn't adequately care for her newborn. But as Ailo came into the world, a sudden swoop of an eagle made her reconsider. She returned to care for Ailo until he was old enough to survive on his own.

The following morning, Ailo woke up to his first encounter apart from his mother—a friendly squirrel. In the forest teeming with dangerous predators, the squirrel posed no threat. Eventually, Ailo's mother led the way as they followed the tracks of the herd.

Ailo, only three days old, faced challenges with every step, especially with his short, stubby legs navigating through deep snow. After a strenuous journey, a small river posed a new obstacle, but Ailo's determination prevailed. He struggled but managed to cross it, continuing to follow his mother.

As days passed, the herd's tracks vanished beneath the snowfall. Luckily, Ailo's mother knew the way by heart, leading them to a steep hill overlooking the valley. They descended, but where was the herd? After a wait, the herd finally arrived. Ailo now had a family and some friends, and they would be united once the herd departed. Until then, they persevered against the cold.

Three days had passed in the valley, and the herd began their departure as spring arrived. They walked on, time passing swiftly, day turning into night as the herd rested. Suddenly, a deafening roar interrupted their slumber—a massive tree-devouring machine approached. The herd fled, navigating through the night and day, their journey far from over.

Weeks later, the herd had reached the highlands, but Ailo remained in the lowlands, plagued by mosquitoes. The herd was safe from the pests but still had to watch for predators. Ailo, now five months old, sported larger antlers but remained a juvenile.

Mating season loomed, marked by fierce male competitions and battles. Someday, when Ailo matured and his antlers grew larger, he would join the tournaments. For now, he remained a child, catching up with the herd as they continued their journey. Ailo learned and grew stronger, yet so did the predators.

Wolves, skilled hunters with techniques passed down through generations, followed the reindeer, their secret prey. Ailo spotted the wolves, anxiety coursing through him. Soon, the rest of the herd realized the danger too. The reindeer were chased and attacked, fear driving them to flee. Ailo found himself alone, pursued by a hungry, snarling wolf. He reached a river and crossed it hastily, but he sensed he wasn't alone. The wolf caught up briefly, their eyes locking before Ailo narrowly escaped. The wolf's mother called, and the herd lost one member.

Lonely and chilled, Ailo continued to walk. Unbeknownst to him, a wolverine trailed him, its patience a formidable weapon. Ailo sensed a presence but couldn't pinpoint the threat's direction. The wolverine set an ambush ahead, but Ailo reacted to a distant bellowing sound. He ran towards it, leading the confused wolverine away. Ailo reached a fence and reindeer but no mother. Realizing the truth, he left, leaving the wolverine waiting for an opportunity.

Ailo detected his mother's scent, almost too good to be true. This time, it was indeed her. Ailo felt the joy of reuniting after a long separation.

Through the bitter winter, Ailo and his mother pressed on, their survival hanging in the balance. Wolverines remained a threat, but half of the herd reappeared. They raced to escape, knowing one mistake meant certain death. The wolverines were momentarily distracted, and Ailo remained safe for now.

As winter persisted, the young arctic fox matured, donning its white winter coat. The herd, now reunited, journeyed on through day and night, battling adversity. A crow alerted the arctic foxes, triggering a chase that the reindeer narrowly escaped. Time passed, and Ailo neared his first year. His mother would soon leave to give birth again, but Ailo's journey was far from over.

The End -