Redhawk Caldera The cold never bothered me anyway

Once she hit the invisible wall, Wildfire turned and began to plod aimlessly along the territory's outskirts. It was tempting to cross over and vanish into the rainy wilderness, yet she reminded herself that she should stay at least a few more days. She had seen most of her loved ones at least in passing, yet Wildfire wanted to spend a bit more quality time before she took off again.

She saw her mother approaching long before she drew near; it was hard to miss a flash of red in this gray, rainy weather. Wildfire stopped and waited for Fox to catch up to her, then smiled and nuzzled the Alpha female when she came within reach. They were nearly mirror images of one another, save of course for the particular markings that made Wildfire resemble a dhole more than a fox.

"Hey, mom. Nah, I'm not leaving again just yet," the young Outrider replied. Her tongue swept over her lips and she suddenly couldn't help but ask, "Does it bother you and dad that I spend so much time away?" Not until this very moment had it occurred to her that her parents might not just miss her but, as her leaders, might also frown on the behavior. She grew suddenly pensive, awaiting Fox's feedback.