Felltree Marsh black bridge

Too late she discovers his intent. Between the mire and the man approaching her, Kanuk is trapped and must think quickly.

She is bristling as he draws closer. The way his weighted steps sink makes her think she has some advantage if he seeks to strike for her. A battle, here, is unwise.

You have enough meat on those bones for a month of easy dinners. I am not yet so desperate for it. He would taste like bear, she reasons.

As she speaks Kanuk reaches for a root suspended over the muck and clambors for it slyly, trying to remain out of reach. He looks strong, like Prophet - perhaps with similar weaknesses.