Hideaway Strath Starfire

Still Elfie pressed the matter and Towhee sagged inwardly. She didn't have the time or energy for this, either. Rather than refute her nephew's latest point, Towhee simply shook her head and continued on toward the impasse, remaining closed off and silent.

When they got there, she didn't immediately attempt to climb. Instead, she padded along the foot of the rock pile, feeling suddenly more ill at ease. Her limbs began to shake even as she skulked in the shadow of the blockage. Her chest tightened and she had to stop to catch her breath and try to collect herself.

Finally, she sought out Elfie again. "You win," she nearly gasped. It was more like her trauma had won but she didn't think he'd care about the particulars. "You climb and I'll spot you."