Morningside Cuesta Sending good men down the foot trails of some lost lonely souls

Gannet had wanted to wait until the pack was settled... but as spring advanced and still things were not set, he knew he needed to return. He had promised Mona that he would be back with news when the weather turned. She'd worry if no one arrived.

Ashlar would be fine here. Their son was resourceful and kind. Gannet wished he could teach him more of the ways of healing and herbalism, but as he stood looking at the young man before him, he was more than proud. It didn't matter that they did not share blood.

Baba, why can't you stay?

Gannet frowned and resisted the urge to cave. He could not. Because your mama is waiting. And someone needs to tell her where you are, he answered calmly. He welcomed Ashlar as he pressed forward for an embrace.

I could go with you?

Do you want to? Gannet asked, surprised. There was hesitation in his tone, maybe. He watched Ashlar deliberate on it.

Maybe, a visit? When the boy finally answered, his voice was small. Gannet's heart broke for him, but this was how it had to be. He was practically an adult now; it was time for him to choose his own way.

A visit, anytime. Perhaps when her brother is well your mama will come here. The trip wasn't terrible, but it was enough days to be inconvenient. Visits would be few and far between.

Don't forget. We'll be searching the stars. He added, and his throat grew thick when Ashlar pressed his face, one last time, with a few shaking sobs into his side.

Then he was gone, off to rejoin Mona and the others. He could feel Ashlar's tearful gaze at his back even after the boy was long out of sight.... and while his heart broke for him, it also rejoiced. He would do wonderfully here; that Gannet was sure of.