Indeed, the sound behind him resembled that of a wild herd in the middle of a stampede. He stopped, ears erect and eyes searching, but there didn't appear to be anything dangerous approaching. Then, faster than he could blink, a dark form seemed to materialize directly in front of him. Stunned, it took a moment for Halcyon to realized what had happened. It was the scent that registered first, then the black and cinnamon pelt, and finally, the deep green eyes. As she sat there panting, her mate just stared at her in disbelief. A silence stretched out between them as the bird high above ceased its circling and flew off to find better prey.

Finally, Halcyon took a step forward and gingerly licked her cheek before nuzzling her neck. Then, unable to stop himself, he wrapped her in a warm embrace. How he missed her. After everything they had been through over the years, after all the betrayals and painfully lonely nights, their love still remained. As they sat there, just holding each other close, he could feel his heart beginning to sync with hers.

After what seemed like an eternity, he pulled away, allowing his eyes to soak her up once more. A flicker of movement caught his eye in the distance behind Aster. A familiar dark, silvery tail disappeared into the shadows of the forest. Halcyon felt his heart sink a little as his son vanished from view. He knew the boy's feelings about his mother only all too well. It would have to be a bridge they crossed soon, but for now, he was going to enjoy being reunited with his mate. Returning his attention to Aster, he smiled and finally spoke. "I've missed you, my love. How have you been these last few seasons?" His voice was gentle with no hint of anger or animosity. He was too tired for that. What was done was done and she would have to deal with the consequences of her actions. No matter what, however, she wouldn't have to face them alone. Not anymore.