Arrow Lake shine on

Mahler shared the wisdom he claimed to have gained with age, and his words brought the knowing glimmer of amusement back to Ruenna's features. In her short time offering advice to leadership, she had experienced the truth of Mahler's aphorism more than once or twice. But she could respect the difficulty inherent in a leadership position; after all, the adviser was not the one whose reputation was at stake.

"It can't be easy to be the one taking action and risking the consequences.. I don't envy leadership for that," Rue said sympathetically, pairing her words with a small, dismissive shrug. To be honest, it surprised Rue how many wolves were so keen to take on leadership responsibilities. Rue herself was quite content filling a more background role. 

As Rue spoke of the joy of new life, she saw that very emotion spark within the depths of Mahler's dusky countenance. What a shame, that the elders he mentioned wouldn't recognize that passion and assist him in channeling his curious energy. If a pup was "underfoot," Rue saw that as a failure on the adult's part for not directing the child to a helpful task... especially when the pup seemed to be so eager to assist. 

"Diaspora will do things differently, I imagine," Rue predicted with a lightness in her voice to match that of her companion. It seemed to her that Diaspora did just about everything a little differently, after all. On a more serious note, she added, "You are not the sort of leader to allow any wolf's potential to lie fallow." Rue's knowing gaze lifted to meet the pale eyes of her Kapitän, and she felt her heatbeat accelerate. She hoped she hadn't made too bold an assumption. 

Mahler expressed his desire for her advice in an official capacity, startling a genuine smile from the young lady. Perhaps she shouldn't have been so surprised after the leader's compliments, but Rue still sometimes struggled to recognize her own strengths and value. "Mahler.." she murmured his name as she exhaled.  "..Thank you." She gave a slight, dismissive shake of her head, her disbelieving smile still lingering. "The honor is all mine," she assured him demurely.