Predatory Behaviour

Pastor Moon is asleep in the Ute.

The lagoon is in darkness.

Olive Python is restless.

So is Charles.

They slither out through the window and down to the edge of the water.

The water weeds bubble and slurp.

Silently a feral cat comes creeping.

Ach! Confrontation! What will happen?

The cat stares at the snakes, the fire of its pale pupils burns like beacons inside their own eyes.

Charles! hisses Olive. Do something!

Charles does.

.........

Morning.

The sun lights the tips of the leaves. The stems glow with redness. There is blood on the grass.

.........

Everyone ready? says Pastor Moon.

Yes, says Olive Python. What's wrong, Mr Moon? You look peaky.

So do you, Olive, says Pastor Moon.

She has reason, says Charles Red-belly.

I also have reason, says Pastor Moon.

And me? Do I look peaky? asks Charles. No of course not. Allow me to offer a remedy.

Breakfast, says Olive.

No not breakfast, my darling, says Charles. Come closer.

Olive moves closer to Charles Red-belly.

He gives her a venomous nip.

Ow! says Olive. What was that for?

You'll see in a minute, says Charles.

Enough of this nonsense, says Pastor Moon. We're supposed to be heading for Hay.

Hay, hay, hay! trills Olive Python, twisting and twirling.

What did you give her? demands Pastor Moon.

Charles Red-belly slides over to the driver's seat where Pastor Moon has just buckled himself in.

Want some? says Charles Red-belly.

No no! cries Pastor Moon.

But it is already too late.