The Heartwood between the rays

Ruenna nodded, trusting Meerkat's judgement that she would be most useful back at the Caldera. As she spoke of Phox, Ruenna wished dearly that Meerkat might convince him to bring his family home, but of course that would ultimately be up to... 

Niamh. Oh no. "I'm so sorry, Meerkat." Ruenna's expression melted into one of sympathy. Rue hadn't had the chance to get to know Niamh herself, just because she always came off a little prickly. Perhaps that Regent position was destined to held by a standoffish wolf? Fennec's typical attitude came to mind. However, Ruenna knew that Phox's late mate had been a fixture in Meerkat's life, and that the news would be difficult for her. 

Mou and Maegi? The second name sparked a flicker of recognition, but Ruenna couldn't quite place it. Her brow furrowed. If Mou was family, why hadn't he sent word that his great-nieces and great-nephews were safe with him? 

Ruenna might have asked, if she hadn't been distracted by the mention of Blacktail Deer Plateau. Now that tugged painfully at her heart; she'd mourned the loss of her home there just as deeply as if she'd lost a friend. Part of her wished she could return with Meerkat-- just to see it now-- but with the other two pups there they would likely have enough to manage without having to worry about having a heartsick gimp in tow. 

The stranger, presumably the one that had howled, made himself known then. His sudden appearance triggered Ruenna to raise her hackles, although it was unlikely that made her appear any more fearsome to the hulking man. 

His offer of help registered, and Ruenna allowed her ruff to settle. She recognized his sincerity, and that prevented her from dismissing him on the spot. "We're missing packmates from Redhawk Caldera. One is a small child," she explained. No matter how well-meaning, it was likely that a stranger would merely slow down the search party, particularly because he wouldn't be trusted by the other wolves around the children. However, there was one way the man might be of use..

"If you could guide me through Bramblepoint-- the thicket directly south of here-- I'd be very grateful." Stars, when had she become the old lady who needed help crossing the road? But time was of the essence here, and wispy little Ruenna would have a devil of a time fighting through that thick underbrush all on her own. She could definitely use a bulldozer like this man to help her clear the way. She doubted he'd even notice a few brambles here or there. Without his help, she'd have to go around the whole thicket, which would cost even more precious time.