It had been a month since I was exiled. Life was hard as a rogue, but it worked for me. I found a small territory but it's alright. At the moment I was patrolling, as I had caught the scent of another wolf earlier today.

I eyed a silhouette in the distance and froze. It had to be the wolf. I darted toward them without hesitation and let out a sharp snarl. The stranger turned around, revealing the face of a male timber wolf. "Um, what?" He murmured.

"This is my land! I demand that you to leave!" I snarled, annoyed.

"Oh? And what if I don't?"

I was taken aback by this wolf's bravery and confidence. I pinned my ears and thought of an intimidating response. "I'll kill you!"

"Look, I'm not here to fight or hunt down any of your game. I'm just searching for somewhere to stay for the winter." He explained.

"Oh, so you're here to kick me out of my own territory?" I questioned, raising a brow.

"No, I guess I'll find a different place." He began to turn and walk off. What a strange, short interaction, but with a brave wolf who didn't cause much trouble. Maybe he would've been a good addition to the pack? Well, not quite a pack, it's just me. But that could change, increasing my odds of survival.

"Wait." My voice echoed through my surroundings and caused the stranger to come to a halt. He twisted around.

"What?" His ears perked in confusion.

"You can stay with me. Just don't cause trouble and stay useful. Or I will kill you." I was sure to exaggerate the warning.

"Alright, deal then! What do I do?" He sat down, paying good attention. Damn was this guy determined not to die in the cold.

"Hunt. Once you've got something, meet me back here. If you return with nothing, get the hell out of my territory. If you bring something back before sundown, welcome." I instructed.

"Challenge accepted!" He sprinted off. I sighed, hoping he wouldn't just hunt my prey and then leave with it. But he would still be turning down a good advantage if that was the case, so even though he's stupid, I wouldn't assume he's that stupid.