“…I missed you.” he whispered, hoarsely, as he breathed in the scent of her wavy, chestnut hair.

“…you look so tired, my love.” she whispered in return, pulling back just enough to gaze into his warm, violet eyes. “Have you gotten any rest at all?” she asked, caressing his cheek.

He opened his mouth to reply, but found no words. In truth, he couldn't remember the last time he had a peaceful night's sleep. Instead, he sighed, wearily and pressed his brow to hers, absorbing the strength she freely offered him.

Just then, a young, sand-colored wolf and a younger, blue-eyed lion crashed into him, throwing their arms around him and hugging him with all their limited might.

“Night!” the wolf pup cried.

“Papa!” the lion cub chirped.

“Boys!” he replied, hugging them fiercely. “I missed you both so much.”

“We missed you, too!” the children replied.

“It’s such a relief that you are here.” Cherry said, pleasantly.

“Oh!” Night gasped. “I’m sorry, Cherry. That was rude of me.”

She shook her head. “Not at all. I cannot imagine what you have gone through being here without your family. I know this was already hard for you, but being here alone…”

He smiled. “Well, they are here now, so that’s what’s important. This is my wife, Mhina.” he said, gesturing to the lioness at his side that was being swarmed by a cluster of curious kittens. “This is my little brother, Blaze.” he said, patting the head of his sibling. “And, this is my son, Kit.” he said, scratching the ear of his feline child.