Dawnlark Plains What does this mean?

he was relieved to know it was just a cramp, although he didn't want pema to endure any extra stress under the circumstances. as she began to speak, however, her words struck a chord of additional concern within him. he shook his head, not necessarily to brush off her words but to let her know that she had it wrong--she was a leader. she was a good one.

"pema, you've done wonderfully so far," aditya countered, smiling gently. "you're invaluable to this pack. don't put yourself down." he swallowed, nodding almost to himself. "i know it's scary, the road ahead without grayday. but we'll be okay. we'll make it through."

he cast his eyes toward the border, a good distance off. "tell you what--i'll take care of the active stuff. border patrols, greeting newcomers, traversing the territory. you rest, and oversee the rendezvous site. at least until your pups are weaned," he proposed, tilting his head in inquiry. "i want to help you. i want to help us all as much as i can. whatever i can do--i'll do it."

he had to do it. sunny was gone, dawn was building herself back up, shale was borderline insane. it was on his shoulders to keep everything together. and this wasn't your classic tale of a hero begrudgingly taking on an obligation. he loved this family with everything he had. he was happy to do it.

for timeline purposes i'm assuming this happens after the shit with sunny/dawn goes down