Whitebark Stream High Time

Maybe he was lying. Maybe this was a ruse to get close to the borders, and then ditch her for whatever reason. She entertained the thought for a split second, but surmised that he - spry and young though he was - would not get far. If the need arose, Tavi would bulldoze him down; this sudden surge of care for the maplewood was surprising.

"She might, but you have a point." Tavi's nose wiggled a little as she said this, a little twitch that showed she was thinking. "I guess it would be alright. This way -" And without waiting, Tavi turned to lead him towards the woods. She paused for just a second, remembering that he wanted her name, and casually added, "I'm Tavi," over her shoulder.