Allete winced as more blood trickled onto the slushy snow on the ground. He tugged the dirty bandages, trying to get them to stay. He sighed in frustration. The rest of the harpies around the campfire glanced at him, amused.

However, you and Allete were an outlier in the clan. You were closer than even most mated harpies. You shared your catches and completed most tasks together. The others were talking their battles, but you weren't paying much attention. You stood up and walked over to him. Allete looked up at you, a mix of happiness and relief on his face.

“You know you don't need to help me," he said, playfully punching your arm as you sat down beside him.