Rule against provoking human hostility toward woodwalkers

The Rule against provoking human hostility toward woodwalkers is a safeguard against actions that could turn humans against the Woodwalkers and expose them to bloodshed. Lissa Clearwater states the danger directly when addressing Brandon and Carag, making the rule a matter of collective safety rather than merely personal discipline.

Purpose and Stakes

The rule rests on a clear cause-and-consequence: provoking humans could invite violence against Woodwalkers. Lissa frames the possible cost in stark terms, warning that they might pay for such provocation with blood. The evidence establishes the risk, but does not specify a particular human response or describe a resulting attack.

Application

Lissa invokes the rule while reprimanding Brandon and Carag. Brandon acknowledges that anger sometimes gets the better of him, and Carag agrees to heed her warning. Lissa also tells Carag to consider whether an intended action will serve its purpose before acting. The exchange connects restraint toward humans with Carag’s broader need to learn to manage his life as a Woodwalker.