Redhawk Caldera Houston, we have a problem

As he prowled along the borders, a strange scent suddenly tickled Elwood's nostrils -- effectively chasing all thoughts of Finley and her mystery illness out of his mind. Seconds later, he smelled Wildfire, as well, and with a frown the Beta accelerated, following his nose. What was Wildfire doing so close to the edge of the territory?

The added sound of Wildfire's wailing spurred him on, and soon enough, two figures came into his line of sight; one familiar, and one very much the opposite. He stiffened, his hackles rising slowly as he released a sharp bark to announce his presence. It was hard to decipher the context of the situation, but all he knew was that a strange, ragged-looking wolf was accompanying Wildfire -- for what reason, he couldn't fathom. Either way, it was unsettling.

"Wildfire," he said sternly, his gaze first roving over the pup. Her face looked swollen and there were tear tracks running down her cheeks, but other than that, she seemed to be okay. He then looked to the dark-colored male at her side. "Who are you?" he asked, his voice wary as he assessed the situation. He halted in his path, not wanting to come any closer in case it would mean danger for the Alphas' pup.