Redhawk Caldera Squid Game drill.

As each member of their small pack arrived, Towhee couldn't help but speculate about his or her reaction to what was about to happen. When it came time to break the news, Ruenna took the burden upon herself, making the announcement with far more eloquence than her fellow Sovereign might have managed.

Before elaborating on the other leader's words, Towhee let her attention drift around the group. There was a lot of trauma among this threadbare gathering, plenty of visible and invisible scars. There were also significant limitations they could not afford to ignore. Among them were blind, deaf and disabled wolves. The rest were simply too young and inexperienced. Their borders were unmanned and their caches were sparse. They had to be pragmatic: staying here wasn't a viable option.

"I'm sorry, guys," Towhee began. "Staying here would mean struggling at best and, at worst..." She didn't think she needed to spell it out for anyone. "We all deserve safety and stability. And we have plenty of options. There's Brecheliant and Moonglow, like Rue mentioned." Towhee's eyes rested on Sphyra, wondering if her daughter would want to stay with her dad. "There's also Frosthawks. They're all within a few days' travel, so we can still visit one another when all's said and done."

She still didn't know where she'd wind up herself, though Towhee wanted to make sure everyone else was situated first. She said, "You don't have to make a choice right this instant. This is... a lot. Take some time. Talk to each other. Make plans." She drew in a breath, let it out. "I haven't decided where I'll be going either, though I'll be stationed at the Hobbit Hole the next few days to wait for Caracal's return. Anyone is welcome to come find me there to make arrangements," the Sovereign finished, "or just to talk."