Phoenix Maplewood and way down we go

All it took was a few sharp words, and a wave of resentment and spite rose up in the young Corten. Both adults had been absent lately, and neither was his parent— he didn't have to listen to them. He didn't expect Kitten to follow him, but he glanced at her and tried to catch her eye anyway, at least so she'd know it wasn't her.
Then River took off running as fast as his little legs would carry him, giving the adults a wide berth and not slowing for a moment. He'd spent a lot of time running outside the territory recently; beyond the physical benefits, it lent a confidence to him that was definitely misplaced. Wherever he was going, he wasn't going to come back until he was ready— not that it would take long.

exit river!