"We are born of sacred rites," said the Sahkrite, a gruff old grey fearaki, his scraggy coat matted in places. Around his neck various bones and dried fruits clattered together.

"This, here, is Fearaki made; the Sahkrites place the paws of the newborns here as part of their initiation into the clan."

The cubbens stared up at the cave wall illuminated by the Sahkrite's elemental flames. As the light danced over the wall, the scene came alive, the fearaki lunging at the devilish hyksi in a final momentous movement. Next to the vicious battle, paw-prints eternally glowed in the soul colours of their owners, eerie statements of previous visitors to the sacred cave.

"Who knows if this is something that has happened... or will come to be."

The Sahkrite limped out of the cave, taking his flame with him. Frightened by the grumpy old falkion, the clan's litter mates left the cave, leaving one grey pup contemplating by herself. At length, she too dashed out of the cave, leaving the silent story to tell itself alone.