The beast had watched all the activity from a distance, hidden far enough away that no one could see it or would come to look for it. Even from this far away it could smell the fear, so ripe and rich the wind carried it to his nostrils. Its belly was full, at least for the moment. A satisfying feeling that gave it a temporary sense of euphoria. It knew that sense of well-being wouldn't last long. It never did. The bloodlust that drove the beast would only let it rest for so long. It might need to feast again, charging its energy, before finally leaving the area.
It padded back and forth among the trees, tongue lolling, saliva dripping as its taste buds recalled its feast. The blood! The blood had been tasty. Sweet. Syrupy. The best kind. Too bad there hadn't been more of it. Coyotes had scented the kill and tried to get in their licks, but the beast had shown them its ferocious side and they'd run off like whimpering puppies.