However he'd managed, Rowan had won Elettra's favor. The fine smile that lined her jaw was reflected in his tarnished-gold gaze, brightening for a moment at her agreement that he be anything like Kade. Little did she know how the dust-coated youth longed for it to be true, how he needed to be worthy of his name. Rowan kept his peace, despite the thought that he might pledge himself in some sort of vow as he recalled was how the loners did at Darkwater Rapids. But words were often so very empty, and accepted with faith rather than action. He would not do such a thing. For his keep the Attaya boy would prove himself and bring pride to Elettra, and her children, and whoever stood at her side. In that way he would emulate his father, for the benefit of them all.

When she stood and gave the order the youth followed with an acute discipline. The shallow river was quick to cross given its oddly low level. "Of course," he uttered in agreement. Formidable as she was, and he could tell she was, it was still an unnecessary risk to be away from the territory's heart so close to the cubs' arrival. Though she might have had intentions to give him the brief tour, Rowan instead had in mind that he might accompany her back wherever she wanted to be - so long as Elettra would consider it unobtrusive. He carried himself to her side, and with ease in his expression would follow her lead into pack lands.