The morning mists still clung to the forest floor as Evelina emerged from the den she shared with Alden. She stretched languidly, basking in the soft dawn light filtering through the canopy.

"You're up early," Alden's rumbling voice came from behind her.

Evelina turned to see him padding out, his thick silver fur ruffled from sleep. "Couldn't stay abed on such a glorious day," she replied with a wolfish grin. "I thought I might take a run through the lower ridges before we meet with the elders."

Alden matched her grin, his eyes dancing with mischief. "A run, you say? Care to make a race of it, my swift mate?"...