Bitterroot Valley lewisia

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She expected the woman to take the news and run. Instead, she found her bounding down to join her in the water.

The frigid waves rippled around Taktuq's sodden shoulders, and her hazel eyes widened with alarm.

Accompany her? This woman should run from her! She had not seen the cat, how well it had fared through winter, how callously and fearlessly it had approached her. Two was stronger - but how could Taktuq believe they would be enough?

Go back. Go home. But the words fizzled out before they reached her tongue, and relief swallowed her fear.

I'm not sure, she admitted, They are at Stone Circle, but the way I would go is blocked by the cat and many scents. There is a way through the Bypass, she pointed her nose towards the looming mountain, then through the forest at its mouth. They are in the just-beyond.

Who was Taktuq but a stranger to this woman? And yet, she would risk her life for her? Are you sure? she asked through clattering teeth, gaze still tight with uncertainty, if there is no sign of the cougar by tomorrow this time, we will know it has not followed. But until then, there is always the chance.