We emerged from the tree line into blinding sunlight. Rolling hills stretched before us, bisected by a crystalline stream. The girls clung to me, laughing through tears.
"Fresh water!" I knelt by the stream, drinking deeply. The girls followed suit, their thirst overcoming caution.
Kate wiped her mouth. "David, turn around. I need to wash up."
"Not a chance," I said. "We'll do a back-to-back arrangement. Scout's honor—no peeking."
The improvised bath turned disastrous when a slick rock sent me sprawling. My bare back hit the water with a slap that echoed through the valley.
They rushed to help—forgetting their own nudity. Kate's shriek when she realized would've scared off any wildlife for miles.
As I lay recovering, a dark shape moved on the distant grassland. My hand found the axe.
"It's coming toward us!" Emma whimpered.
We fled toward the foothills, the creature gaining. At the last moment, I spun to face it—only to find a young buck staring curiously.
Seizing the moment, I roared and hurled my axe in what I assumed would be a futile gesture. The blade struck true, felling the animal instantly.
"You magnificent bastard," Kate breathed as they approached.
Emma eyed the dying buck. "Is that... venison?"
I slit its throat, drinking the warm blood. "Nutritious," I lied when Emma hesitated. Her grimace as she swallowed told me she knew better.