Hideaway Strath sapukutaq

As far as he could tell they had crossed through the village, at least the outermost areas of it, and he had yet to take notice of any caches pilfered or prey chased from the area. He would be certain to go back and study the terrain in case there was anything of note, and each issue would be a black mark against these people. What the woman spoke was the truth—so far as Kigipigak could ascertain—however, he did not want to take her apology at face-value. Words meant nothing to him, only actions held any consequence.

I am Kigipigak Tartok. My village is Napatuqvik.


This region is mostly uninhabited. There was no reason you could not have chosen another place to settle and make your village. He was frustrated by the exchange already. My wife and I have recently welcomed children, he admitted with some caution, and a tightening of his jaw, watching the woman. Kigipigak did not want to give any indication of their number, although it was clear enough to any of the wolves that trespassed that they were few; he did not want to give up any signs of weakness either, and would not mention the loss of the little boy or the resulting period of mourning.

It was hard enough to think straight right now without being reminded, himself.

I only say this as a warning to you and your people. If they come too close to our village at any point, I am well within my rights to force them out; those of the village will be vigilant. If they want some form of safe passage, now is the time to arrange it—but when I go back to my wife I will consider this issue resolved.