Bramblepoint Pull together for the clan and kin.

She hadn’t expected to see anyone, at least not until she announced her presence here. When Killdeer appeared, her brows lifted in surprise as Towhee promptly sat up again. She grunted as she pushed onto all fours, if only to give herself some leverage to grasp him into a quick hug. She hoped it might wipe that worried look off his face.

When they pulled apart, she snorted at the mention of padre and explained, Soto. He’s Bushtit’s dad, which is what I think that word means. Bushtit wanted to get to know him a bit and was treating his territory like a homebase, so it just made sense to stay there while I rested my leg. But I’m feeling better and he’s basically dispersed, so I wanted to head this way instead.

Towhee had no plans to join Moonspear’s ranks, even if he asked. No, she wanted to stay here on her own and continue her recovery. Hopefully by spring, she would be fully mobile again. Either way, she intended to keep her promise to her grandson, so it made sense to be close at hand if and when the time came.

She said as much: I plan to camp out here until I’m ready to roam again or until you reclaim the caldera—whichever comes first. Realizing how that might sound, Towhee huffed a laugh and insisted, No pressure though, honestly. I fully intend to keep my promise if you take it, though if you decide against it, that’s fine by me too. It’s totally up to you, kiddo.