Big Red

Danny brings the buck and doe home with the mule’s help. He feels proud of himself for surviving in the woods. He loves the Wintapi and is glad he can survive there with Ross and Red (178). Back at home, Ross congratulates Danny for his hard work.

Danny takes Red to set the traps the next morning. Red can’t help Danny, but he’s “a lot of comfort” (180) throughout the day. Whenever Red gets into trouble, Danny talks to him. Meanwhile, he studies the trees, animals, and sky.

Suddenly, a wolverine bursts out and rushes towards Red and the traps. Danny is terrified, because wolverines are smart and violent. His panic worsens when Red tries to face the wolverine. He wants to control Red but doesn’t know how. Meanwhile, the snow and wind whip up as the sun sets. Danny and Red try to keep on the trail while watching for the wolverine. Finally, Danny finds his and Ross’s hunting shack. Since he lost his ax, he stands poised with a coffee pot in case the wolverine returns.

When the wolverine barges in, Red attacks. Danny intervenes when the wolverine sinks its teeth into Red.