The wolf had discovered the fox and was bristling and growling, as it walked stiffly toward the pony. Awed by the threats of its formidable rival, the fox slunk to the edge of the timber and sat upon its haunches to watch until the wolf left the carcass. The wolf feasted ravenously, tearing large pieces of flesh from the bait and growling savagely as it ate. It was one of the great gaunt timber wolves, and the Sioux longed to pierce it with their arrows. They resisted the temptation, however, for they knew that Matohota might become suspicious at the scent of fresh blood.
"It would be foolish," said White Otter.
The wolf refused to leave until it had gorged itself with meat, and then it moved threateningly toward the fox. The latter immediately retreated across the park and failed to show itself until the wolf had slunk into the shadows.
The fox had barely returned to the bait when it was again interrupted by another nocturnal prowler. A short, catlike snarl sounded from the direction of the game trail, and as the fox paused to listen, a long, crouching form appeared at the edge of the moonlight. Two glowing eyes blazed defiance, and the fox bounded into the woods.
"It is fierce Imutanka," breathed Sun Bird.
They had instantly recognized the stealthy prowler as a mountain lion. They watched with bated breath as the great cat moved cautiously toward the carcass. In spite of its size and strength it seemed as wary and fearful as Huhasapedan, the fox. It would slink forward a few paces and then stop and look furtively about the park. Once it sniffed suspiciously, and parted its lips in a silent snarl. Had it caught the wolf scent? Was great Matohota approaching? The Sioux grew tense at the thought. As the lion drew nearer the pony it crouched close to the ground, growling and nervously lashing its tail. It appeared to be preparing to spring upon the carcass. It was an unusually large specimen, and the Sioux were eager to secure so noble a trophy.
"Come, we will kill Imutanka," suggested Sun Bird.
"Wait," cautioned White Otter.
A moment afterward a great bulky form appeared at the opposite side of the park. The Sioux recognized it at once. It was great Matohota, the grizzly. His sudden appearance caused their hearts to beat wildly against their ribs, while their eyes flashed with the light of battle. He was a foe worthy of the bravest warrior, and the young Dacotahs longed for the chance to engage him in battle.
A slight breeze was stirring from the eastward, and Matohota had evidently caught the scent of the mountain lion. He had raised his head and was staring across the park. The Sioux looked toward the lion. It, too, had discovered the bear, and was crouching behind the pony, and grumbling threateningly.