Duck Lake Fresh Blood

Katya treaded lightly along the perimeter of the lake, leaving sandy prints on the shore. Even during the hot summer months, crystal-clear waves lapped at her feet with each step. Silver fish glimmered enticingly under the surface of the water, and the forest surrounding the reservoir termed with life. For even a creature as small as she, there was plenty of game.

A dark smudge across the water caught the silver-furred woman's attention. Narrowing her pale blue eyes, she realized it was a wolf, but she couldn't place them from this distance. They didn't look like anyone she knew, anyway. Quickening her pace to a brisk trot, she followed the natural curve of the lake, hoping to catch up to this stranger and introduce herself. She had learned from experience that some wolves, even loners, could make powerful allies.