Redsand Canyon for the fish, the lake in which he lives is the universe

His heart sank at the woman's words. Aquene had gone looking for him. Anger stirred in his gut as that realization settled over him. Why would she do that? But just as quickly the anger died and he was left with a soul-deep sadness. He understood why she would look for him; he had been gone longer than anticipated, long enough to make her worry. 

Just as he was about to ask after the twins, the imperator arrived at the woman's side. The familiarity of his presence was almost crushing. So many nights he had been alone and all he wanted was to be home. It felt like it would be ripped away from him at any minute. And with their sons leaving and joining the other mountain packs, Aquene would have been here alone. Guilt swelled in his chest. 

His expression never shifted from the icy mask he wore. She went by herself? he asked. She was strong and capable, but so was he, and look what happened.