Jade Fern Grove departure to the west

He trailed behind, noting how her movement was different now that she knew he was there. He paid special attention to that, locking the memory in so that he might notice it on other wolves he may be tracking. It was subtle things. Her ears swiveled differently, her movements were more calculated than they had been before.

Kaertok was careful to let this be her hunt, not his. She would not always have his watchful eye looking out for her and guiding her, and he knew that day was drawing near. Even seeing her in her element here made him realize how quickly she had grown. Malrok may have still been an adolescent, but she would be a capable wolf. He was sure of that now. He thought the same of Pingasut, although he considered Atuaserk a lost cause.

As the rabbit slipped away, Kaertok watched, not making any move to go after it. You are good at finding them, but not so good at catching them. You will learn, he said. Come, let's go back home. The Tartok gestured for her to follow, shoulder-to-shoulder. When they got to the stream once more, he gave instructions.

When you swam before, you let the current take you too far. This time, push against it. Letting it take you too far can be dangerous. Kaertok dipped himself in first, pushing himself to the other side where he waited for Malrok to make her own crossing.