and strike the nail against the flint

It appeared as though this expedition was somewhat of a success in that whatever lingered around these parts had become uninterested and moved on. A pity though, he'd almost hope to come across something so that they could leave a proper message as to who was and wasn't allowed to linger this close to their borders. Considering the very few inhabitants allowed to wander this close were wolves of the spine and those animals they considered dinner, these traces were concerning, but stale. Whatever had been here once, wasn't here any more.

He didn't put it past the creatures to come back. This place was well worn and familiar so the chance of a return was likely. He made note of it and moved to raise his leg towards the well worn resting spot and claim it for the Spine. If nothing else, that would serve as a deterrent, while Echelon's efforts would muddle the scents and their associated memories.

Iqniq moved, spreading himself through the area and leaving his mark here and there to further ward off a return. Satisfied, he moved back to join Echelon and the scent she tracked. It'd forked again. One path towards the Spine. Another moving away. She lingered as if to ask which trail they should take. The one towards the Spine, definitely. He wanted to know what pathways they took to sneak closer to their home. Plus, if this one was just as fruitless as the other paths they'd searched, at least they'd be headed in the right direction to turn in and finish up their patrol.

Paws lifted as he set off in the direction of the Spine with his nose pressed to the ground.