Porcupine Ridge ishkitu-niqaru

Hex was prowling along one of the many ledges cutting through the territory when the shadow caught his eye. Not so deep into the territory, but enough to cause concern—especially when the man lowered himself into a hunting position.

The yearling altered course and marched down the path with a sharp b a r k, fur well fluffed out by the time he reached the stranger.

You're trespassing, he snarled. He might have been a little more gracious were it not for recent events; the mad woman nearby was still at the forefront of his mind, and now they had Nutu to protect. Tell me your business here or get out.

The man was older, but not too much larger or more brawny. Hex was fairly confident he could drive him away without calling for backup.