He had not lied to her about the dangers for a lone woman on the prairie at this time of year: war parties often dared to travel during the early morning hours when they least expected to encounter an enemy.

But, although he had not told her, there was another purpose behind following her to the white man's wagon train: there was intelligence he must gather about these white men who dared to come into Pikuni country without permission. Could this be the start of the trouble his almost-father had foreseen and had warned him about?

Stands Strong's almost-father, Strikes Fast, had counselled him before Stands Strong and his friend had left the Pikuni camp on their quest to gather intelligence for the chiefs.

"My almost-son," Strikes Fast had said, "be on your guard as you and your friend, First Rider, travel into the realm of the whiteman's fort. I see danger there. Discover what it is, yes. But, live to come back and tell us what it is."

Stands Strong had nodded. "I will remember your words. I will also tell my friend your advice so we will be alert to any danger."

Perhaps Stands Strong's conversation with the white woman, Czanna, would aid the Pikuni people by bringing his attention to the wagon train. What were these people doing here?

Regardless, he would watch over her as she returned to her loved ones, and he would also gather as much intelligence as he could, reporting it back to his chiefs.