Shadewood all at once

The male almost seemed about to trot away to enjoy his prize in peace, and the girl stood, stepping forward. But he twisted back, snarling and standing over the carcass protectively. Ire flashed in her gaze; surely the boy already had his prize and had no need to stand over the corpse. She remained standing, looking to him cooly; willing to be patient to find the prize she sought. Perhaps he would have been more impressive had he been bulky; but, rather, he was skeletal and hungry, just as she was.