Stavanger Bay with flowers in the sunshine

When Sandpiper corrected, Rosalyn looked at her with an expression of genuine surprise.  She had simply assumed, from the nature of her introductions so far, Raptor note the honor of first mate.  That Sandpiper held it both shocked and, she would admit, bothered her rather deeply, though that she kept to herself.  It hadn't been intended a slight, as she had been told no formal hierarchy yet, but she wasn't prepared for the pronouncement either.

She watched silently as they left, not entirely understanding their irritation with Dakini's learning to communicate, but not particularly bothered by it.  If this put a pall on her relationship in the pack, it was nothing compared to what she would have to do now knowing that Sandpiper was claiming first mate.  Instead of leaving, she stood a while, staring thoughtfully at the sea.