Work Text:
Spring.
Barely four weeks old, two Siberian tiger cubs have begun to explore past the mouth of their den. The snow has melted, leaving the forest floor damp and covered with old pine needles. Their mother has ventured several kilometers from the den, leaving her young alone.
The larger cub, fur a pale gold, moves first, soon followed by his brother. Still unsteady on their feet, the cubs stumble over uneven ground. Large tree roots provide cover and the opportunity to practice climbing. The cubs spend a majority of their energy in short bursts, testing their teeth and claws against each other.
It is the younger cub who strikes first this time.
His tail flicks as he stalks his brother, biding his time until the perfect moment. Once he gets within range, he stills, lowering himself to the ground. Then he pounces, aiming directly for the neck. The older cub twists, swiping with a paw. The two tumble to the ground, rolling down a small incline as they fight for dominance.
The exchange ends as abruptly as it began. They separate, moving a short distance apart. But it isn’t long before another fight breaks out.
By late afternoon, their mother has returned with food, and the two cubs, exhausted, trudge back to their den.