Summary

Chapter 22 is titled “The Wolf.” Ned realizes a very young wolf is following him. He can tell the wolf is starving. Ned is terrified. He decides to give the wolf the hunk of meat he took from the bandit, though he knows that leaves him very little for the trip home. The magic furiously demands that he keep the meat for himself, but Ned refuses to consider it. The wolf takes the meat and leaves. Ned crosses the river, hoping this will cover his scent. Cold and tired, he builds a fire. The wolf arrives after dark with two rabbits. The wolf eats one while Ned skins, cooks, and eats the second. Ned talks to the wolf, and he notices that the wolf “didn't notice his stutter” and “didn't flinch when he spoke” (167). Ned is relieved that he is not alone.

Chapter 23 is...