Sunset Valley [feast] And sometimes you close your eyes

Lane watched the softness spread over Tuuluuwaq's features as he spoke of Ensio, and her heart throbbed in a funny way. She supposed this was who she was now. The old Lane would have been head-over-heels for Kigipigak, the force of nature he was, rippling with strength and booming with vivacity. Although the Tartok man was undeniably attractive, there were a different set of characteristics that appealed to the new Lane. Tuuluuwaq had exhibited a softness for children and loyalty for family which were admirable to the young mother. He also had a certain calmness of spirit and stout dependability which Lane appreciated beyond words, especially with how chaotic life had been lately. 

"It was nice to see Calida up and about," Lane mentioned, recalling Calida's presence at the edge of the funeral gathering. Tuuluuwaq's bravery and heroism stood out in a grand way on the day he pulled Calida from the river. Calida had since expressed a desire to join Duskfire Glacier and protect the borders as a mercenary. Tuuluuwaq had risked his life, and the pack had gained a valuable member. 

Tuuluuwaq directed the conversation a bit abruptly onto Lane and her needs, and the alpha realized that had her train of thought been allowed to continue uninterrupted, she might have gone on indefinitely, commenting on the status of each packmate in turn. Tuuluuwaq had been allowed a glance through the window of her mind's eye, which focused unceasingly on those in her charge. 

"What do I need?" Lane echoed, her expression dimming into her characteristic, amused half-smile. After some thought, she spoke. "I need someone to help me with the Middle Tier. A newer member with a little authority, who can bridge the gap between old and new members and integrate the newer recruits into the rest of the pack." After a pause, she clarified, "I need a Zeta, if you're up for the job." Her amber eyes leveled upon Tuuluuwaq. She was uncertain whether he and Issorartuyok had yet spoken about the permanence of his presence in Duskfire Glacier or the rank he would hold, but as far as Lane was concerned, he had proven himself many times over in the few short weeks he had been with the pack. His contributions surpassed those of many of the wolves ranked above him; none of Duskfire could deny that.