He finds his amusement in her sudden soothed nature, so easily slipping back into the Shieldmaiden they all knew. It was not like her to be so agitated, but by golly did she make a sight when she was. She is so bristled at one point that the golden underfur and shimmer of her coat makes her appear almost as though there was a sun beneath the black guard hair. It was no wonder she had caught the eye of their Alpha, that was certain.

She seems to be glad of his company, and his tail wags to confirm that he was also glad of hers. It was pleasant to see her so alive, so vibrant in her pregnancy.

He remembers the strain that he had seen on her when Amoxtli had returned from his last challenge for leadership a little over a year ago when he had first come to them. It does not surprise him, despite his chagrin, that she is so tender about the subject of challenges now. He tells her it will be well, regardless that he cannot know the outcome, because he believes that Amoxtli will defend them with no shortness of prowess.

“Thank you,” she replies and sighs, looking interested in the questions that follow more than his commentary to the state of her nerves. “I know but it is hard to know he will be hurt. He should not have to do this but it is inevitable I suppose. I had hoped we could catch some rabbits so that I might use their soft winter pelts to line my den for our children. I am hungry, as well. I do not want to take advantage of my pack but do you think they would mind helping? ”

He is about sputtering with laughter. So much from a woman who he has heard speak so little! It does his heart good to hear it that she has considered what he has suggested already. “Mrs. Shiloh,” he sounds like a chastising priest, the way he almost tsks her, “you ought to know by now any one of your pack would hunt you down whatever fare you fancied if only so that their leaders’ pups would be born strong and be kept warm thereafter.” He drops his head a little, nostrils twitching his nose as he tries to determine from afar how far along she might be and how healthy the pups could potentially turn out.

It is a hard diagnosis, but that she seems to be in good health gives him much hope. “And I am certain that the messengers, fletchings, gatherers, and villagers could use with some occupations outside rolling in snow drifts and the like. Even the elder wolves might take some pride in being able to hunt you out a few tasty treats and pelt-endowed critters...”

He tilts his head, “What of your health? Is there anything that I might do? Are you in any discomfort yet? Do you find yourself sick in the stomach or dizzy? Perhaps a little overly anxious with your mate’s current affairs of state?”