[ It's correct to assume that the word means nothing to her. Fern's head tilts a notch to one side as she eyes the wolf, but when the clarification comes, realization dawns on her. ]

Like a familiar, then? [ Fern can't see how it's any different from Adrian's summoning of Morgan, and she would assume that the wolf's capabilities are similar as well. An extension of this boy's will, in some way. ] A companion of mine can summon a raven to his aid, much like this.

[ It means the stranger must wield magic of some kind. Given the current situation, with all the lights out, the wolf offers a sense of security. She can understand that much.

But she does have to wonder, and asks with a lift of her brow— ] Why have you ventured out?