Redhawk Caldera Follow your heart, little child of the west wind.

"Just sightseeing.." Rue dictated to Towhee, her brow furrowing as she turned back toward the stranger. Standing firmly upon the rim beside Towhee, she imagined that the pair of them would appear intimidating enough to a lone wanderer. 

After the brief interruption, their conversation resumed.

Meerkat wasn't remotely interested in leadership? Rue let out a huff, equal parts amusement and wryness. Wasn't that always the case? Those most suited to leadership seemed very often to be the most reluctant. 

"She may change her mind, in time."  Priorities had a way of rearranging themselves, as wolves got older. 

Towhee's next question was not unexpected. Rue nodded thoughtfully. Towhee must know by now that Rue was here for her, in whatever way she needed her to be. A friend, advisor, beta, Auntie Woo.. she'd been all of it before, and she'd happily be any of it again. 

She dipped her muzzle in an affirming gesture.

"I would be honored," Rue answered. "But I would understand, if you wanted some younger blood." Or, you know, Redhawk blood. It was their namesake, after all. With so much of the pack being family, it begged the question of whether they would follow the outsider.