Dragoncrest Cliffs look what you've done

"Th-thank you." Muses stammered, her ears pushing out in modest display. She could feel her cheeks burn, her heart thrumming, as she processed the compliment. No one had ever called her strong, although it had always been one of her greatest aspirations. She thought it over very carefully, even went as far as to analyse Deirdre's words, but could see no tint of dishonesty. Hopefully, she would be able to continue to live up to those expectations.

The ivory wolf spoke so earnestly, painting such a glorious painting of her, Muses thought she might faint simply from being so overwhelmed. She wanted to protest, to try and remain humble, to allude to the dark secrets that she had begun to uncover, but she stopped herself. Her maw hung open, prepared to deny what her friend had said, yet she could not bring herself to shame her dead family. Proud was not the word she would have used, not for all of them, but certainly her sisters. That was all that mattered.

"Yes, you're right." Finally agreeing, she allowed the topic to close naturally. It was impossible for Muses to be alone; not when she carried the memories, the names of her sisters; she had not always been known by the name Muses. It was her burden and her joy, but she was not yet ready to explain it. The very thought made her feel exhausted, aged beyond her years.

Her ears swivled back to face Deirdre, tail drooping as she explained her situation. As if the northern traveller had been the only one to experience tragedy! This time, Muses snuffed, a puff of warm breath aimed for white fur. "I'm the one who should be admiring you for your strength!" She chuckled, shaking her head in disbelief. "You've taken on a large responsibility for one so young, but I have no doubt you are a fine leader." The care she had for others was truly remarkable.

Then, Muses hesitated, drawing back a step. "Deirdre, would you still allow me to join you if I brought along someone else? He's still very young..." She had not meant to keep him a secret, but she feares that something terrible would happen if she let anyone know before she had found some sort of sanctuary. "I feel like I can trust you." The path ahead was not very clear, but Muses knew that she would find her way, especially now that she had found a friend in this lovely white wolf before her.