Redhawk Caldera On foot I had to cross the solar system.

He returned the sentiments not with words but with embrace, folding himself into the pair as if he'd always belonged. And he had, hadn't he? His two favorite (female) wolves, here again with him. 

For as long as they remained, he'd be by their side.

-Thanks, Gramma. It's okay,- he insisted, smiling. -I'm just glad you're here now. How long are you planning to stay?- 

He smelled other wolves on them—Meerkat predominant—and figured there was an expiration date to the visit. That was okay. He'd just need to make the most of their presence while they were here.