Grouse Thicket i was supposed to be sent away

Ever since Njord and @Towhee Jr had detected the tracks of wolves crossing the territory near the Copse’s southern border the Laird had felt uneasy. It was serendipitous that he heard Asivaq’s call. Perhaps, the small family of Cedar Sweep had encountered this, too... though he would have never guessed how bold the wolves of the heights had become.

At the time, Njord laid outside the clearing of the Taigh on guard. Then, at the summons, he passed duties to another packmate to greet his Aokatti’s wife with @Meerkat. He did not expect to see the whole family, young children and all.

Njord tried to read the room. Kigipigak’s face was hard as stone. Asivaq‘s expression… well, it certainly wasn’t joy.

“What has happened?” Njord asked, brows pinched together sternly.

It was then he noticed there were only three children, not four, and his heart sank.