Bearclaw Valley they elevate

how had she learned?

all the countless ambushes, the attacks -- the upbringing in blackfeather..

astara was but a representation of her upbringing: cold, murdering monster.

she felt a sting of teeth on her hocks -- toad's imparting gift to her driveby.

the blackbird smiled and rallied, turning back to toad with a glitter in her eyes.

better not do the same trick twice: he'd expect a driveby this time. astara's head lowered and she approached, this time aiming to collide with him directly.