ch 1 Big Sky Country

         As the sun began to set over the snow capped peaks, aspen groves and pine forests, setting vast prairies aglow, Deron the moose knew it could be no more beautiful anywhere else in the world.  From where he stood, on a grassy plateau surrounded by granite jags, he could see seven lakes sparkling like jewels.  Below him milled his herd, grazing lazily in the early morning light.

         His herd.  It still sounded strange to him at times, but it was true.  He had gained the respect of all his fellow moose. They would follow him wherever he should choose to go. 

         He felt a great pride in knowing that his herd was very safe in his command.  It helped that they all weighed nine to eighteen hundred pounds, the males topped with a vast rack of horns.  Not even the intimidating wolves dared to harass Deron’s herd.  The forest was their domain. 

         Deron started down toward the herd.  As he did, he held his head high, and let his antlers catch the gleam of the morning sun.  His antlers were the largest of the herd, and all must respect him.  As he approached the herd he let out a mighty bellow.

         “Mmmmaaaaawwwwww.”

         “Deron!” called out one young bull.

           “What’s up man?!” hollered another.

         “Looking good!” screeched a fine little cow.

         “Those antlers are looking good bro!”  His peers shouted out to him, and he could see the look of respect in their eyes.  They should respect and love him; he thought to himself, he was a magnificent beast.

         “How’s it going guys?  Beautiful day in big sky country,” Deron grunted as he strolled amongst them.

         “Justin, look at those horns!  Getting big,” Deron hollered at one of the younger males as he playfully scraped with his little friend.  All eyes were on him as the horns rattled and cracked.  Justin began to give all he had, trying to prove his worth.  Deron led him on, letting him think he might win.  Then with one quick burst and a laugh he tossed him aside.  Everyone began to laugh at Justin, and cheer Deron.

         “Nice try Justin, maybe next year,” Deron chuckled.

         As he lifted his head from the little scuffle Deron spotted a rabbit who had been quietly watching the display of power.  Deron was feeling good, and decided to have a little fun.

         He walked toward the rabbit, who quickly cowered in his presence. 

         “Don’t be afraid little friend,” Deron said.  “I just have a secret I want to tell you.”

         He leaned down very slowly, and got his mouth very close to the rabbit.

         “You almost missed your flight,” he whispered, and with that he used his horns to fling the rabbit like a soccer ball, the rabbit landed roughly in a bush before fearfully scurrying away.  Deron burst into a loud boisterous laugh, and everyone joined in with him.  Today would be a good day in the land of the moose.