Neverwinter Forest eyes on fire

Shrike bowed his head gratefully when October welcomed him. He looked forward to getting Scimitar's approval above all, as he hoped to impress Allure's father so he might be deemed an acceptable match, if and when the day came. Shrike was fairly traditional; he wanted to have the father's approval, if not permission, even if it seemed old-fashioned and ridiculous. He'd take time, of course, and would continue to dote on Allure as well as push himself forward as an essential member of the pack. It made him feel good to be welcomed, but it would make him feel better once he'd truly earned his place in the pack. Thus far, it had been good- and October was the kind of wolf he could easily get along with and work with. She had his respect immediately. 

Though Shrike didn't like the fact that one of Neverwinter's children had possibly run off on account of Lucy leaving, it did give him some peace of mind knowing that the two might be able to manage if they were together. They had no way of knowing, of course, but he nodded in agreement, and was glad to hear that October at least sounded optimistic about the two sticking together, rather than resenting Lucy had Rannoch left to be with her. 

He stiffened when he caught sight of the dark figure on the ground, but relaxed slightly when October spoke a name. He looked to her, then, ready to push his guardian mode aside should this foreign wolf be a friend. He nodded in permission when she confirmed her belief, but tagged along at her flank when she moved forward, drawing back when her pace quickened. She knew him, for sure, and he looked to be in poor form when he collapsed to the ground. Defensively and worried, Shrike quickened his pace, and while October's sweet voice rang out in a cheery way, he still remained concerned. He kept his distance but eyed the male warily, looking for any sign of disease or injury. He looked bedraggled and exhausted, but otherwise was unharmed. He lowered his head and sniffed the air- and smelled no disease, but a rather herb-like scent that hung about him. Beside him was a fairly long piece of plant with a flower, looking a bit wilted as well, and he wondered if it was medicinal, or simply meant as a gift. With the way October showered him with kisses, it wouldn't have surprised him much. 

The concern in Shrike's gaze echoed October's question, though he remained a few feet away, still holding back a bit. In case this male- Rickon- had come with a flower for October, Shrike prepared to give them some time alone. He could always get to know October better some other time, and didn't want to be an awkward third wheel.