Redhawk Caldera Stuck in '93.

Nearly the instant she waved Alyx over this way, it hit her that she might not know about Niamh's fate. Her expression became ashen even as the yearling loped over to join herself and Caracal. Towhee's heart clenched when Alyx butted against her, automatically reaching out to touch her nose to the girl's cheek. She looked so happy and healthy, which added to the Sovereign's silent heartbreak for her.

Fortunately, her son unwittingly provided an effective distraction. "I'm Caracal!" he declared, drawing his mother's eye to his puffed up chest. "State your—" he continued, faltering when he realized he already had her name but quickly recovering by finishing, "—business?" He shot Towhee a questioning look that bordered on sheepish.

Towhee laughed despite herself, reaching out to nudge his shoulder. She almost told him he didn't need to interrogate Alyx because she was family, but Towhee wasn't about to discourage her son's behavior. No, she definitely approved. And anyway, she was also curious what had brought Alyx here. She wanted to hear all about what was happening in Alyx's life before she dropped the news about her mother and siblings.

Facing the yearling again, Towhee tacked on her own inquiries. -"How are you, Alyx? And what brings you here?"- She told herself not to push but couldn't help but ask, -"Are you here to stay or just visiting?"-