Redhawk Caldera glinderwood

Reyes did not stay long after Ruenna denied his request, and Rue supposed she ought to at least by grateful that he hadn't fought harder. He'd attacked a pregnant packmate of theirs after all, so it stood to reason that he would have few qualms with attacking a disabled one. 

Rue liked Reyes. Really, she did. Rue herself had not been immune to making impulsive-- even dangerous-- mistakes in her youth. But Reyes was a loose cannon, and there could be no argument against that fact that if he was outside the border, then life in the Caldera would be more stable, and likely more safe. 

Rue was a perceptive wolf, and she could see that her decision upset the Brecheliant leader. Teya, she a called herself. So caught up in her churning thoughts, Rue almost missed the mention of Eljay. 

"Good for him," Ruenna murmured. Towhee could not be faulted for desiring the pack's resources to go to Redhawk young; it was always better for a pack for the few to grow up stronger than it was for the many to grow up weaker. But in deciding the way she had, Towhee had ultimately deprived the pack of Eljay, whose knowledge and skills were some of the most valuable resources of all.

Sometimes, sacrifices had to be made. If Rue herself had been required to give up her litter to keep Eljay, then she liked to think she would have done so. But hypothetical choices were far easier to make than real ones, and Ruenna had not envied Towhee that impossible decision. 

Teya claimed to be happy, although Ruenna could see she was anything but. 

"I am glad we spoke," Ruenna agreed with a parting nod. She would not hold Teya here any longer. "And please let Bridget know she has our gratitude." Ruenna would remain at the border until Teya departed, watching her silhouette disappear in the direction of Brecheliant.