Redtail Rise years ago,

They had not hidden their travels and Redd was ever observant.  She knew of the den in the maplewood but did not yet comprehend what it meant.  This troubled her.  She did not understand why the huntlead did not seek to have his blood strengthen the Rise.  If they sought to leave in spring, it would leave the rise sparse.

The pressure to do her own part in securing their future mounted.  Redd was not sure she wished this, but instinct ran like a current through her very bones.  She would need to find a mate and prove her worth as a partner.

These thoughts now occupied her in preparation for spring.  When she spotted New Snow she approached with a friendly air.  The spring was distant; she need make no firm assumptions yet.  Just plan for those changes that might come.

In this line of thinking, Redd tossed her muzzle and bounded a few paces before turning to invite with a glance.  She knew where she had seen hares only a short time ago.  They would likely have settled nearby, or perhaps even ventured forth again to fatten for deep snows.  She could lead.