Witch's Marsh Don't you remember when you were young, and you wanted to set the world on fire?

He hardly paid her any mind. Instead he stood for a time, staring off in different directions as if she wasn't there at all. He was unhinged, Mae was sure.

And when he moved again, his path was aimed toward Swiftcurrent Creek. Briefly Mae considered howling for her packmates — but no, she couldn't do that. Arric would come. Maybe her father would even answer the call, and for what? Another fight, another tragedy.

She could handle this herself.

Mae was quick and light on her feet, not so hindered by the mud as she lunged for the stranger's retreating form. But she knew her disadvantages; she knew how easily this could turn deadly for her. It didn't matter. She needed to do this. She wouldn't be helpless again.