But none of that could happen until they had driven the wolves back to the ridge. Kallik began to work out how she and Yakone would create the avalanche. They’d have to go up to the ridge that day, to have everything in place for the attack on the wolves at nightfall. We’ll need to pile up snow and rocks and branches, and put them in position so we can get them going quickly. Perhaps we can roll one boulder into place, or shove in some branches so they hold it all. . . .

Kallik halted in her planning, her limbs stiffening as she realized there was a terrible problem. If Yakone and I are going to set off the snowfall, we’ll need to be at the top of the shaft. But then we’ll be trapped on the ridge, just like the wolves!

Kallik prodded Yakone in the ribs to wake him. The white bear raised his head, blinking sleepily. “Huh?”

“Yakone,” Kallik whispered. “I’ve just thought of something. . . . We’ll have to be at the top of the shaft to start the avalanche. But then we’ll be trapped, just like the wolves!”

Yakone rolled over, instantly awake. “I see what you mean.” He thought for a moment. “We could trek along the ridge until we find another way down.”

“But that cliff stretches for skylengths!” Kallik protested. Discouraged, she rested her snout on her paws. It’s all starting to go wrong. . . .

Yakone was silent for a few moments. “What about Izusa?” he said at last. “Do you think she would help?”

“She might,” Kallik responded, beginning to feel slightly hopeful. “But don’t forget, we’re going to be driving the wolves closer to her territory. She won’t like that. In fact, she might not be supportive of this plan at all.”

“Yes, but wolves have always lived on that ridge,” Yakone pointed out. “And we know there’s enough prey for them up there now. I don’t think the wolves have ever been much of a problem for Izusa before.”

“I hope you’re right,” Kallik said.

“Getting Izusa’s help is the obvious solution.” Yakone’s voice was persuasive. “She already lives on the other side of the ridge. If she sets off the snowfall, she won’t be trapped away from her home.”

Convinced at last, Kallik sprang to her paws. “Let’s ask her!”

Her movement disturbed Lusa and Toklo, who looked up drowsily. “Now what?” Toklo grunted. “It’s not even sunrise!”

Kallik quickly explained the plan to them. “I know it’s a long way to Izusa’s territory, but I can make it if I set off now. It’s our best chance, and we need all the help we can get.”

“Do you think she’ll agree?” Lusa asked.

Yakone nodded. “We saved her and her cubs from the avalanche. She owes us.” He rose to his paws. “Okay, Kallik, let’s go.”