Bearclaw Valley survival leaves little room for anything else

It felt good to be on top -- to be in control. Laurel stared at Tadec until he eventually admitted to her terms, agreed even if it was not necessary. She'd carry out the punishments she mentioned regardless of whether he'd agree to take them. Laurel felt strong.

She didn't need him close right now, not now this message was clear. Laurel smiled all of a sudden, seemingly friendly. "Good! I'm glad we talked this over. You can go now. See ya later, Tadec." and she watched until he was out of her sight, after which she turned back to the pups to tend to them.