Redhawk Caldera New Cydonia.

You thought? she teased, her chest twinging a little when she realized she felt up to something like banter. You’re not wrong, she added, then lapsed into silence as Cinar told her it was good to see her, though he cited Alivia as the worrier rather than himself.

I can’t take life’s punches as well as I used to, she said after a moment, hating that it was true, and losing a child or grandchild is one of life’s meanest. But I don’t want to dwell on that anymore. He’s back, he’s okay and, like you said, it’s a beautiful day.

She motioned with a foreleg, her inquisitive expression suggesting, Let’s get walking? Towhee took a few slow steps, glancing ahead along the ridge line as she did. She felt three distinct presences walking in her wake. She turned her head, waiting for Cinar to catch up and walk beside her.

I’ll check in with Livi soon, she said, picking up on the thread he’d dangled. I owe a couple of house calls. Do you know if all the newbies are settling in, by any chance?

She supposed Whip was technically an oldbie but the sentiment remained. Towhee hoped all of the recent newcomers were feeling comfortable in the caldera, despite their rocky inceptions.