The men were about half a bow’s shot away, their voices would carry well through the quiet, still air. But the men nevertheless decided to come closer – apparently they wanted a closer look at whomever had beaten them to the den. They were just as surprised as Hadko was. Their bows did not silence Voipel, who barked ever more fiercely. However, the dog did not attack these newcomers: he caught a whiff of conflict and awaited his master’s decision.
One of the men walked slightly ahead of the others and Hadko heard his words:
“These are our hunting grounds. Identify yourself, so that we know who we are dealing with.”
Hadko did not answer. He could now make out the men’s faces, and they were unknown faces. He realized that he had broken the law.
“Why won’t you answer?” the man asked. “We
