Dawnlark Plains Take me higher, where blind men see

He couldn't see. Whether the wolf was recently, or temporarily blinded by something, or this was an affliction he carried his whole life (if that was the case, then why was he wandering alone?) didn't matter to Hush. He was lost. Alone. In danger.

In plumper times, he might have led the wolf back to Drageda without question, sure that Heda would take him in, at least for a while. But now...this wolf's future was uncertain. With pups on the way, with the famine...Heda wouldn't tolerate this at all.

He approached the wolf cautiously, aware of his inability to speak, knowing that the wolf was confused and frightened. He nudged him gently, chuffing again, trying to impart his gentle intentions.