Phoenix Maplewood i hear the horses' thunder

Pawsteps caught his ear, and he slowed down, glancing around until he found the silver female approaching him. He pulled to a complete halt, panting slightly but giving her a brief nod and a smile. His nose bent to the ground, and he inhaled deeply. Painting her a picture of the task they were to undergo today.

"Deer," he said, though she likely already knew this. "It's wounded--don't know by what. But it's bleeding everywhere, and slowing down. Should be an easy kill." He rolled his shoulders, preparing for the chase ahead. "I'm Shale, by the way. You must be one of the newer wolves here."

He'd almost introduced himself as Grayday's brother, and had to all but bite his tongue to quit the impulse. She hadn't known Grayday. It didn't matter, anymore. A pit of ice formed in his stomach; he swallowed, trying to ignore it.