Fox's Glade and who shall wear the starry crown?

She felt like a child, again, and for once, she didn't resent that feeling. Kove's presence, his voice, brought her back to a time when everything was right. She was able to relax under his watchful gaze, hoping her children could do the same. The Melonii nodded gratefully to him, giving him a smile that reached both eyes and heart.

Thank you for everything, she said quietly, fervently, meaning every syllable. Seeing you again means more to me than you'll ever know. If he allowed it, she'd step forward briefly, pressing her muzzle into the plush, pale fur of his shoulder, breathing deep.

Then, with tired yet serene expression, Maegi herded her children toward a part of the glade that was quiet and sheltered, and the trio curled up to sleep. All this, but not before she uttered a quiet farewell that floated over the breeze:

Goodnight, Kove.