Short Stories » The Challenge

The Challenge - Page 7 of 8

He trotted upon the very top of Smoky Hill. The air was fresh and full of life. He forgot at that moment everything that had passed since his mother left him, and his mind was wholly upon the elk people who were gathered there below him in a glorious band. He felt that he must now call, and that his voice should sound the beginning of the elk-calling of that season upon the Big Sioux.

Flying Bee had notified his fellow-hunters by means of a small mirror of the presence of a grizzly in their midst, and each one was on the alert. Soon all had located him, and moved to a point of safety. They preferred to see him attack the herd rather than one of themselves, and they were certain that the monarch of the Big Sioux would give him a pitched battle. He was the protector of every doe in his band, and he had doubtless assured them of that when he took them into the herd.

" Whoo - o - o - o !" a long, clear whistle dropped apparently out of the blue sky. A wonderful wave of excitement passed through the great herd. Every tobacco-leaf-shaped ear was quickly cast toward Smoky Hill. The monarch at once accepted the challenge. He stepped in front of his elk women and lifted his immense head high up to sniff the morning air. Soon he began to paw and throw up the earth with his fore and hind hoofs alternately.

Just then the second call came a piercing and wonderful love-call! The whole band of elk women started in the direction of the challenger. Every one of them gave the doe's response, and the air was filled with their stamping and calling.

The monarch started to intercept them in great rage and madness. The hunters all ran for the nearest tall trees from which they might witness the pending duel, for they knew well that when two of these rulers of the wilderness meet at this season it can be for nothing less than a battle to death. As Bee settled himself among the boughs of a large ash that stood well up on the brow of the river-bank, he easily commanded the scene.

He saw the challenger standing upon the highest point of Smoky Hill. In a moment he descended the slope and ran swiftly to the level of the plain. Here he paused to give the third challenge and the love-call the call that the Indian youth adopted and made their own.

Again the elk women were excited and stamped their hoofs. The monarch now let them alone, and started on a run to meet the challenger. Bee could not restrain himself; he had to give a sympathetic whoop or two, in which his fellows willingly joined. The elk paid no attention, but when old grizzly found that he was among many warriors, he retreated to an adjoining creek to hide.

The challenger saw his adversary coming, and he hurried forward without a pause. The elk women were thrown into the greatest confusion, and even the five warrior-hunters became much excited, for they always ad- mired a brave act, whether the performer were a man like themselves or one of the four-footed folk.

When the monarch saw that the challenger was in earnest, he took up his position in front of his herd. On came the other, never pausing after the third call. When he was within a hundred paces, the monarch again advanced, and the two came together with a great clash of mighty antlers. Both trembled violently for an instant; then each became tense in every muscle of his body as they went into action.

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The Challenge - Takeaway for Class 1,2,3

When we work hard and try our best, we can overcome challenges and achieve our dreams!

The Challenge - Takeaway for Class 4,5,6

Always remember that confidence, courage, and kindness can help you overcome any challenge you face.

The Challenge - Takeaway for Class 7,8,9

Friendship and teamwork can help overcome challenges and lead to success, as demonstrated by the characters working together in "The Challenge."

3 Fun Facts

• Sam is a young rabbit known for his speedy legs.
• Ben, the wise old turtle, suggests a race to teach Sam a lesson about patience and perseverance.
• Despite Sam's speed, Ben ultimately wins the race by never giving up, showing that patience and determination can lead to success.

Quiz for Class 1,2,3

• What did Lily promise to do every day to become a better artist?
• Who encouraged Lily and helped her with ideas and encouragement?
• What was the special event at school that Lily was preparing for?

Quiz for Class 4,5,6

• What was the unique challenge that Tom decided to undertake during his summer holidays?
• How did Tom’s friends initially react when they heard about his challenge?
• What did Tom learn about facing challenges and trying new things by the end of the summer?

Quiz for Class 7,8,9

• What activity did the protagonist decide to start with the intention of proving their ability and challenging themselves?
• How did the crowd react to the protagonist's decision to take on the new challenge, and what factors contributed to their reaction?
• What lesson or realization did the protagonist come to by the end of the story regarding their ability to overcome challenges?