Chapter 43

“Should I assume that they found nothing at the sawmill, based on that proposal of yours?” said the leader, with the same patience as always. “Because they have remained very quiet since they returned.”

The doctor looked at Ivan with a slight smile, perhaps of pride, perhaps of boredom.

“Well, eight years away from the clan and with half-finished training, but you’re still the fastest hare on the block, right? I’m glad; that means I haven’t taught you wrong either,” he commented ironically. He ran his hand through his hair with a sigh of regret. “Look, I’m not saying that you were wrong, but the initial plan no longer works. Circumstances have changed: the cats were at the sawmill for a few days, yes, but they left it at least twenty-four hours ago. They left nothing behind, only dirty clothes that we brought with us to keep their smells in mind.”

“That’s an oversight,” Ishida agreed, confused. “They shouldn’t have left clothes. Anything, but not clothes that give