Redhawk Caldera The Dark Flame

Her godparents had been leaders for years, longer than Towhee had even been alive. She might claim the superior rank now, though she often deferred to their judgment, especially where new recruits were concerned. If it were solely up to her, nobody would ever be welcomed to the caldera, even though Towhee knew that wasn't a sustainable business model. She hoped to strike a balance over time but, meanwhile, she trusted the Betas to exercise expert judgment when it came to accepting newcomers.

She knew about the new guy, though Towhee couldn't remember his name at present. As she tracked him down by scent, she thought of Finley's remarks about this particular fellow. She'd warned the young Alpha that she might have trouble reading his lips. That didn't bode well, of course, but as she closed in on him, she reminded herself to have some patience.

She came up behind him, which wasn't ideal. Towhee rolled to a stop, trying to think of his name. "Nev..." she began, though Towhee honestly forgot the rest. "Nev? I'm Towhee, the Alpha."