Qeya River "if only, if only," the woodpecker sighs

The still-nameless female approached him silently, and he took the time to observe her more closely. The almost-gaunt frame fooled him not; she was a warrior, lithe and quick, and her eyes were gray, steely--they had seen much bloodshed. Not only a warrior, but a leader. She walked like a queen.

Denali continued to smirk as she approached, though softened his features a bit to give this woman the respect she was due. "What a surprise to see you again," he began, though it was a lie--how could he be surprised to see her, and he so close to the volcano? Still, he hoped it initiated a conversation; he would at least like to put a name to this fierce face.