Duskfire Glacier wind and stream in the ardennes

While Meerkat couldn't help but be captivated by the way Issarortuyok articulated, Caracal only said, "Yeah, sure," when prompted about Veteran joining them on the return trip. "Yeah, let's go!" he added eagerly when the younger boy was formally elected to lead the tour, then accepted. "Did you know I live on a giant rock too..." he said, his voice fading as the two youngsters presumably headed off together.

Meerkat began walking in the same direction, albeit at a much lazier pace. "I wanted to say I'm sorry, again," she said to Issorartuyok, "and I'm glad you'll be coming with us on the way back. Vet too. It'll be quite the road trip." She laughed lightly, then mused, "He'll probably stay a few days, maybe a week. Just in case you wanted a timeline."

She shot him a quick sideways smile, then glanced ahead to watch the boys' retreating figures. It was good to be home and she was quietly glad that Veteran had taken Caracal off her hands for a little bit, especially after traveling with him the past few days. She loved him but she could use the break, as well as the adult conversation.

Wanna fade this one? :)