Nova Peak Until I found a bruise on the other side

She knew he was close even before he appeared at her side. In fact, she had slowed in case he was in need of someone to talk to. She didn't know the details, but she knew something was off. She had been around Mahler and Wylla long enough to know that they were different now. Plus, she wasn't stupid. As much as she seemed to be lost in her own world lately, she did still pay as much attention to her surroundings as she always had; it was a habit ground into her as a pup for many reasons, but she was always tuned in to the energy of the pack on some level. 

There are better mountains to claim, she told him first, blunt as always. But, I have no complaints yet. She had somewhere high up to escape the heat or the presence of others if she wished, and she had always been fond of mountains. 

She directed the conversation towards him. How are you, Mahler? She asked, hoping he would confide in her if that was what he needed. She wasn't sure why else he had sought out her company if it wasn't for a an ear to listen.