Wildcat used his claws to roll the centipede in the sand, trying to rub off its awful secretions. The creature waved its many legs too slow and once he was sure that it was edible he popped its antennaed head into his mouth. With a mighty crunch and a twist of his jaw he severed the delectable morsel from the rest of the insect, putting an end to its struggle. He closed his eyes to savor the rich flavor as he chewed the bits of shell and pulpy insides. He felt warm fur press against his flank and a familiar scent touched his muzzle. He swallowed and nudged the remains of the ebony armored insect to the side.

No words were needed. Shimmer gave his jaw a grateful nibble and then ripped a chunk off for herself. Wildcat leaned back to give his littersister more room and felt a sharp sting in his haunch. He yelped and swung his head around just in time to glimpse a huge wasp buzzing away. Leaving the centipede, Shimmer moved to nose his haunch as the sting swelled. “Ow!” Wildcat hissed and shuffled a few steps to the side.

Shimmer wasn’t swayed. “Let me see it.” She insisted with an unusual firmness. Scowling, Wildcat obeyed. He sat down and allowed her to sniff the wound, he even managed not to flinch when she touched the sore...