The officers spread out quickly, shouting commands. “Hands where we can see them! On the ground!” One of the poachers dropped to his knees, arms raised. Another tried to run for a snowmobile, but two officers tackled him before he made it ten steps.
Caleb stayed where he was, too stunned to move. An officer approached him, kneeling. “You Caleb Morgan?” He nodded, barely able to speak. The man quickly cut the rope binding his wrists. “We got your call just in time. You okay?”
Caleb swallowed. “Yeah… I think so.” Behind them, a group of officers moved toward the net. They worked fast, careful not to injure the walrus further. The animal moaned low but didn’t thrash. It was exhausted. When the final strap was cut, it rolled once, then sat up with a heavy breath.
The calf let out a cry. The adult turned its head toward the sound and answered with a deep grunt. It moved slowly, limping slightly, but pushed forward. The officers stepped back, giving it space. Caleb watched as the two touched noses, the calf pressing close, safe again.