Northstar Vale running down to the riptide

Countless times Ruenna had looked out over the Vale from the surrounding peaks, but this was her first time bearing witness to its majesty at eye-level. The view from Porcupine Ridge was majestic as was the view from the side of the Sunspire... but neither overlook had captured the feeling of being here, the overwhelming feeling of purpose and belonging that Rue now experienced.

Rolling hills stretched as far as the eye could see, and patches of grass were just beginning to peek out of the snowmelt along with some of the hardier foliage. The Sunspire Mountains towered over the vale, stalwart sentries surrounding and protecting the cordillera's most precious treasure. 

Perhaps some of Rue’s feeling came from the knowledge that this place could have easily been her home now, had events back at Blacktail Deer Plateau's founding unfolded differently. Perhaps there was an alternate reality in which the Sunspire wolves had been more welcoming, and Liri and Kavik had settled their pack here. Perhaps they would have existed happily here, beyond the reach of whitecough and the coyote band... perhaps @Liri, Kavik, Rue, and the others would all still be together. 

Rue allowed that the somewhat wistful feeling of belonging was likely rooted in nostalgia, but still... she couldn't deny that something about this place felt right. It just felt like home. Rue continued forward, resolving to find any reason compelling enough to convince the Diaspora leadership that this vale was the best choice for their new home territory. Rue could feel it in her bones, she belonged here.