Artemis and Chase watched Tarrant and his friends from the treeline, a silent agreement passing between them not to interfere with the first kill. They loved their fun, but to ruin someone else's—especially mortals'—felt unnecessarily cruel. The group of men, confident but well aware of their individual limits, exchanged looks.
"As much as I hate to admit it, Tar, you've got the best aim," Russle said, ever the reasonable one. "It's better for us to let you take the first shot than to walk away empty-handed."
Bill and Kenny both nodded in agreement, and Chase and Artemis silently approved, respecting the ritual.
Tarrant gave Artemis a quick glance before sighing and lifting his rifle. He began lining up the shot as the deer moved into view.
"Hmm... Tar, since when do you not pray before taking a shot?" Bill teased, squinting as he watched from behind.
