When she'd first heard of the patrol Lucien was to lead, Noreen had talked his ears off. She had wanted to know who else would be joining, which route they'd take, and what they might expect on the way. She had inquired after what gear to pack and how long they would be on the road inbetween. Hopping with excitement she was everywhere at once, packing and organizing and planning, seemingly without structure but when it was time to leave she had the items she needed for the road. The day before their departure she had baked a nice bread to share on their first travel, and whenever there was cooking to be done Noreen happily volunteered. She liked to see happy faces at dinner and often she'd look for edibles during the day so she might spice up their meals in the evening. Especially George's face was discretely watched for signs of happiness so she might ferret out his favorites without asking.<br/><br/>During their marches, when she wasn't examining this bush or that flower for edibles, Noreen often sought his company. Even when they didn't talk, simply being near him raised her spirits. In Elmoss she showed him some of her favorite spots, and introduced him to several of her family and friends during a dinner the evening before the patrol moved on.<br/><br/>Both George and Lucretzia were heartily welcomed during Lucien's teachings, and Noreen was generous in her praise for Lucretzia's cleverness which she knew far outshined her own. Although she regretted not being smarter, she admired Lucretzia for her knowledge. She was neither as quick of mind, nor as learned as the other tenderpaw and she often laughed at her own silliness when she made a mistake. The lessons were moments of happiness to look forward to; Lucien was the ideal mentor, Lucretzia a bright fellow student and George was amicable company. Her only regret was Cyd's isolation, which she hoped would be remedied one day.<br/><br/>When Cyd invited a volunteer she was quick to accept.<br/><br/>Not only was she glad for a chance to talk with the taciturn mouseguard, she had heard part of his conversation with George and was eager to compare notes about weather watching with the more experienced mouse.