The Transall Saga

Mark continues to explore, and spots a group of deer-like creatures. He hears the howl again (Part 1, Chapter 8), and then a scream of pain. He runs to the source and sees a giant wolf-like creature on its hind legs, attacking someone or something in a tree. The thing in the tree is clearly injured, with a bloodied leg and a limp arm. Mark fires his arrow into the wolf, which turns on him. He then stabs it with a spear, killing it. When Mark goes to check on the injured thing in the tree, it’s already gone.

Mark finds footprints from the injured thing—small human footprints with webbed feet. He feels empowered at having killed the powerful howling animal. He peels off its furry hide, planning on making clothing or shoes from it. Next, Mark cuts some strips of meat to dry. He resolves to improve at hunting and surviving, and hopes he will eventually find the arrow people.

Mark makes a necklace from the claws of the Howling Thing. He eats the creature’s meat until he’s full. He considers his reflection in a pool of water, which he’s walked to while carrying Willie, and notices how lean and strong he looks.