I didn't see Dag's withdrawal as a counterbluff as a strategic choice - I saw it as a been there, done that, not going to put Fawn in that situation recognition of his mother's state. By Lakewalker rules, Fawn gets to run her tent; Dag set about implementing that.

Wouldn't the lakes be some of the smaller ones, of which I understand there are lots in the mid west?

Yes, I agree it was disappointing. But I have reread parts several times and most of it at least once. (Of course, I read the first 2.5 chapters a few times when that was all I had . . .)