Fight or Flight? (DISCONTINUED)

Chapter 3

A/N: I'm so sorry I haven't updated! There are some things going around in my life that I have to tackle first, before I settle down and actually write. Hence why this story is coming out late. The others chapters might come out late as well, because of things IRL. Hope you'll be patient with me.

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Kestrel stretched, blinking at the strong sunlight as she exited the cave. Better enjoy the sun while we still have it. She thought to herself, spotting Specklefire flying over the waterfall part of the stream, water droplets sprinkling her feathers. Even though we've been together for months, I still can't get over how beautiful she is. Kestrel marvelled, noticing Specklefire's orange back and reddish-brown wings, and her creamy stomach, streaked with light brown.

Specklefire was bigger now, able to catch squirrels, birds, and even large rodents like gophers. Kestrel helped, with her new hunting dagger. Right after she had found this cave, Kestrel had snuck into the nearest town and stolen a sharper dagger, as well as a proper sheath and sturdy clothing, for hunters. She also took an arm and shoulder pad, so Specklefire could land on her arm without hurting her.

Kestrel sat down near the stream, washing her hands in the running water. They had found the water source the second day they were together, and then Kestrel stumbled into the cave they live in now.

The cave was well hidden, on the side of a small cliff, hidden by vines. The stream itself flowed over the cliff, creating a small waterfall. Inside the cave, it was dry, despite all the water around. The rocks also muffled the little sound of the waterfall, and there were many ledged on the inside, allowing perches for Specklefire, as well as plenty of places to place herbs. Kestrel had made a bed for herself, woven out of tall grass and layered with leaves. Then at the back of the cave, there was a small alcove, where Kestrel stored the prizes of their hunts. She usually dried them to preserve them.

Kestrel called out with her mind. How's it going, Speck? She asked.

Wonderful. Specklefire replied, gliding down and landing on Kestrel's shoulder. She had begun to trust Kestrel, but didn't let the human pet her yet. The water is really refreshing.

And it makes your feathers look beautiful. Kestrel said. She found that Specklefire loved compliments, and showered her with them as much as she could, without it seeming too obvious.

Thank you. Specklefire replied. What are we doing today?

I'm going to gather herbs. Kestrel said. Feel free to hunt.

I will. Specklefire said, then took off again with a leap.

Kestrel hummed to herself as she headed towards the forest, stopping to collect the dried marigold she had put out the other day. Kestrel went around her small patch of land, grabbing herbs and collecting nuts for food in the winter, which was slowly approaching. Leaves were starting to die, and Kestrel knew she would have to find a warmer place to call home.

The day went on without much incident, and soon Kestrel and Specklefire were sitting by a fire, Kestrel roasting the bird Specklefire had caught. Not bad. Kestrel said. It's a bit scrawny, though, don't you think?

Yeah, well, fall is coming. Specklefire pointed out, sounding annoyed. All birds are losing weight.

Yeah, true. Kestrel said, tearing into the bird with relish. I prefer rodents, but I guess this is alright.

Specklefire snorted, raising her head to swallow the last of her meal, a small bird. I can't always catch what you want. She said.

Kestrel didn't reply, only finished the bird and declared she was going to sleep. You should come in. Kestrel said.