As always, Leo was up early, ready to take on whatever tasks the pack needed of him. Usually that meant walking the borders, though he’d take on the occasional hunt when necessary. And today would seem to be just such a day, as his younger brother found him not long after sunrise.

“Hey Gale,” he greeted softly, the very corners of his mouth turned up in a faint smile. Leo was very happy to have his brother back, while he loved all his sisters dearly, there was something special about having a brother, a unique experience that he hadn’t felt since Lynx left. But now, especially as Galen was growing up, they could share those things; and Leo might have a chance to pass on some of their father’s legacy as well.

“What are you up to?” He asked, an affectionate hum in his voice as he wondered if his little brother had come seeking something specific, or just to say hello. In any case, he was always happy to see him.

Thoughts ”Speech”

Leo nudged his little brother back in an unusual show of playfulness, infected by the boy’s good mood, and happy that he’d sought the older boy out to share his joy. Leo himself was a very serious nature, feeling the weight of his father’s legacy heavily on his shoulders, and always aware of his duty. But he did not recent his siblings for their more cheerful character, especially the pups, knowing that it didn’t mean they cared any less and they still had plenty time to grow into adults, when they would need to be responsible all the time.

But it would seem Galen was reaching that age, speaking about learning and helping out. Pride swelled in Leo’s chest at not only seeing this change in his younger brother, but at the fact that he had been the one he sought out to help him. Gale had found a way to channel his giddiness into positive action and Leo applauded this, offering his dark sibling a full-fledged smile; “I think that’s a great idea, and I’d be more than happy to help.”

This would be Leo’s first time acting as teacher in truth, a somewhat daunting prospect, but he was confident and in good spirits. Giving Gale another playful nudge, he spoke with an affected, commanding tone: “Alright, nose in the air! What are we hunting?”

Thoughts ”Speech”

The fundamentals of hunting came instinctively to most wolves: a natural interest in the scent of prey and the urge to chase it, as well as most pups’ penchant for play fighting, honing their skills even through childhood play. But to become an efficient hunter required the harnessing of those skills and further practicing; Relentless practicing!

Leo himself was far from an expert in the field, but with his extra year of experience, he was sure to have a few nuggets to pass on to his little brother. Already, the older wolf was secretly sifting through the scents carried to them by the breeze, looking for a suitable target – they were unlikely to find any herds this close to the strong markers of the Cove borders, but something smaller would probably work better any way – though he would wait for Galen to announce his choice first.

And the younger boy soon did just that, all be it a little louder than was pertinent to their goal. Leo cocked one brow at his brother, though his lips were still curled genially, muzzle flicking upwards, encouraging him to continue. Once Gale was in motion, Leo would trot up alongside him, speaking in a hushed tone: “Rabbit’s a good choice with just two hunters, but we’ll have to be sneaky,” he put a little extra pressure on the word, but it was all in good humor, he appreciated the yearling’s enthusiasm; “Once we get close, we should split up to try and surround them. For now, keep your head low and follow the trail.”

Thoughts ”Speech”