And so here is our first hero -- and the moment when Taka goes from 'best friend' to something more for Sarafina. He's now her hero, the one who came back for her, the one willing to die for her... LURV. Smells wonderful don't it? (Unfortunately, he will not return that sentiment for many years to come.)
Yes, that wild dog only has three legs. It's why it has no pack, and is not quite fast enough to snatch up one of the cubs right off the bat. It's slowed somewhat by its missing front leg.
Panel 5 -- Shadows of the future, thar, in that expression. >:3