Emberwood The enemy never sleeps.

He blinked, inhaled deep the strong scent of pack; Alpha or omega, this territory belonged to her. It was her home and he, an outsider on their doorstep - peering in windows.

The ranger smoothed back his ears temporarily, pricking them forward once more when at last the ghost shifted. He watched quietly as she stepped carefully from her hiding place, and offered a friendly sway of his tail as the smile that bloomed on his lips hinted at apology.

"My mate's co-leader disappeared while we were visiting our neighbours to the South," he told her, straight and to the point. "I am looking for her. Her name is Bhediya; she is expecting a litter in the coming month."