The field was quiet

not empty, but quiet

ten or more bucks

sharing the dawn

and sweet grass

Aware of each other

not interacting,

simply quietly breaking fast

following the sweetest

occasionally meeting

A drop of head

momentary entangling

gentle probing

then a nod, a retreat

not yet ready to challenge

challenges will come

battles ensue

It is their nature

for the strength

and health of the herd