Swiftcurrent Creek little puppet made of pine.

As River predicted, he responded viscerally to her presence, turning towards her with teeth flashing and hackles raised. Every muscle in her body tensed, but she did not react except to avert her gaze from the killing glare he gave her. He looked to be a far cry from the boy she had met what felt like a lifetime ago, and now she would always be aware of the fact that he could be as fearsome as he could be sweet.

When she looked up again, he had stilled. There seemed to be some recognition in his eyes, but River couldn't be sure at this distance. Either way, she was relieved to know he hadn't simply turned into some rabid dog and was in fact pursuing something very dangerous. It was clear in the way he motioned for her to leave.

She gave an indignant snort as he turned to continue his hunt.

Then, she followed him out of spite.

And if asked, she already planned to say it was because she was "concerned."