[ There are new people in this little town. That means more mouths to feed, more Interlopers tossed into the harsh reality of survival in this frozen, wooded expanse. Some of them may still be out in the woods, wandering and alone, while others are just starting to find their way around. Or maybe someone comes across him, crouched by a makeshift campsite, a fire crackling in a cleared patch of ground and a lean-to staked against the wind.

Fraser has gravitated more towards his brown uniform since the boar so graciously gifted it to him over the holidays, but for the first few weeks after the arrival of the new Interlopers, he dons his red serge, making himself a vibrant and easily spotted figure against the snow, in the woods. He spends a good portion of each day hiking through the nearby woods, keeping a sharp eye out for any lost or wandering Interlopers, Diefenbaker trotting by his side. He may also be found ice fishing on the Basin, or occasionally stretching his legs by tying on some hockey skates and practicing his slapshot into a snowdrift.

One day, he tromps back into town with a deer slung over his shoulder: venison for everyone. He spends some time dressing and skinning the carcass, then works to smoke the butchered meat before wrapping it up and delivering it around town to anyone who might need any, Diefenbaker and the three half-grown wolfdog pups at his heels. He is also always willing to stop and talk to anyone, answering questions or offering directions as needed. Bewildered by your sudden arrival in the frozen North? Your local Mountie is Here To Help! ]

[ Fraser isn't always out in the woods or around the town. This house he originally shared with Heartman has become something more than just a shelter, a warm place to sleep: with Sveta's presence, it's become a home. Someone walking by might hear the rhythmic sound of chopping wood and come across the dressed-down Mountie, now in flannel shirt and jeans, out back with an axe and wood pile. Or they might hear him singing to himself as he works to repair the damage from January's storm to the roof, windows, and walls.

Someone wandering by in the evening may hear the gentle sound of a guitar being played and smell supper cooking. Go ahead and knock— guests are always welcome! ]