Together their voices lifted, echoing through the mountains and announcing their homecoming. For that was what it was, as Kiyomi’s tones mingled with his in a congratulatory symphony, but then lilted into a questioning desire. She wanted to stay here, to call this place home, and the notion warmed Sleekwing’s heart. As one who had devoted his life to the protection of others, he had been at fault for keeping the midnight female cooped up in the valley tending to him all winter. It was pure luck she had been immune and not contracted the disease from him, or the two wolves probably would have perished and been buried in the snows. As it were, they now stood upon the outskirts of Spirane, and it was clear in her voice that Kiyomi did not intend to simply leave him here. The friendship they had formed went beyond sick-maid and invalid, and it fettered away some of the guilt that had welled within Sleekwing since his return to lucidity.

Upon the conclusion of their melodic song, Kiyomi rocked back into a sitting position even as Sleekwing leaned forward in anticipation, ready to run as far as his still weary lungs would allow. But the words that followed put a pause on his intentions, and he turned to her with a bewildered look upon his face. Barely a moment passed before a smile spread wide across his features. “How could they not?” He placed a lightning quick, reassuring lick on her cheek, and then bounded off a few steps to cross into Spirane, before turning back and watching her. His tail waved back and forth in happiness, his ears pricked forward in excitement – not only to be home, but that she wished to call this place home as well.

That was when the sonorous voice of his sister resonated through the pack lands, originating high upon the mountain. It was a beautiful sound, and the Protector of the Realm called out to both of them. She welcomed her brother home, singing wishes of good health to him and that he must come meet his nephews and niece soon, while announcing to the pack that their Castellan was returned. Then the tone became only slightly more serious as she howled directly to Kiyomi, it was firm but welcoming, inviting her within Spirane. Sleekwing had become stock still as the Queen’s voice rang out, and only when her song ceased did his tail begin to wave once more, more vigorously than before. He stared at Kiyomi, a look on his face that simply said, ‘See?’ He was keen to gallop through the mountains, but he wouldn't go until she was ready.