Hunt the Hunter

BY KRIS NEVILLE
Illustrated by ELIZABETH MacINTYRE
Of course using live bait is the best way to lure dangerous alien animals ... unless it turns out that you are the bait!
We're somewhat to the south, I think, Ri said, bending over the crude field map. That ridge, he pointed, on our left, is right here. He drew a finger down the map. It was over here, he moved the finger, over the ridge, north of here, that we sighted them.
Extrone asked, Is there a pass?
Ri looked up, studying the terrain. He moved his shoulders. I don't know, but maybe they range this far. Maybe they're on this side of the ridge, too.
Delicately, Extrone raised a hand to his beard. I'd hate to lose a day crossing the ridge, he said.
Yes, sir, Ri said. Suddenly he threw back his head. Listen!
Eh? Extrone said.
Hear it? That cough? I think that's one, from over there. Right up ahead of us.
Extrone raised his eyebrows.
This time, the coughing roar was more distant, but distinct.