She looked up, a glimmer of gold and blue in the darkness; It really is her! Leo just managed to confirm as much before he miss-stepped, on front paw sliding off the side of a wobbly stone making him stumble. He was forced to tear his eyes away from his sister and focus on his own feet, shuffling to regain his balance.

He finally succeeded, looking up in time to see his father embrace the dark girl. The softest hint of a smile spread on the boy’s lips, relief flooding his chest. He took care to make the rest of the way over, slowly, watching his footing, and finally came to a halt at his father’s hip, keeping back so as not to impose on the reunion.

Only when Aleister pulled back did Leo take another step forwards, eager to greet his sister for himself, only, their father’s words made him frown; She’s hurt? Looking her over with worried eyes, her brother asked softly: “Kati?”

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Leo’s eyes were aglow with worry as his sister pointed out her injury, his heart heavy at the though of what she might have been through all alone. Only when her attention turned to him, did the boy force a small smile, answering softly: “Missed you too Kat.” He moved to touch his muzzle gently against her head, briefly, his own version of a loving embrace.

Then he stepped back again, allowing their father to close in and continue his examination and explain about the other search parties. Chan, meanwhile, had acted the healer, making good use of his supplies. Leo listened closely to the instructions as well, wanting to help in anyway possible, though a frown creased his brow at the same time, growing deep as the adults stepped aside to continue their talk in hushed voices. The Eastfall would not be coming back to the mountain with them, that much was clear; But why? They’d found Kateri, they needed to get her home!

As he watched the grownups - waiting as patiently as he could for them to inform the kids what was going on – Leo moved in to try and help warm his sister. Then Aleister finally addressed them, and his ears perked up, gaze flicking from his father to Chan. He didn’t know what exactly had been said between the two men, though they didn’t seem upset. Finally settling his attention on the paler of the two, Leo pushed himself to ask: “Where are you going?” Curiosity and concern mixed in his voice, brow still knitted tight; Shouldn’t we stay together?

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The glint of tears in Kateri’s eyes made her brother’s heart clench, as did her question. He wanted to reassure her, but wasn’t sure what to say, or if she’d even believe his word. Aquene had always cared warmly for all four Cove pups, but at the end of it she was Kateri’s mother, not his, and surely she would know her better. In the end, Leo left the question for his father to answer, certain that he would know much better, how to comfort her.

Soon enough, the focus was all on Chan, as Kateri too expressed worry at him going off on his own – be it in a much more intense manner. The scout rushed to reassure her, his clear confidence very convincing, at least to Leo. He still didn’t feel good about it though, agreeing with his sister that they should all stay together, just to be safe. We found her! Now we need to get her home!

But he didn’t say it out loud, knowing that in the end it would be the adults’ decision to make, and they knew better. So, when Chan looked to him, the boy met his gaze with serious eyes, ready to admit difference. However, he had not expected a proper explanation, and certainly not that explanation! Mom...! In all his worry for Kateri and subsequent relief at finding her alive, he had entirely repressed the fact that she was not the only wolf missing from the Cove.

Leo looked from Chan to his father and then Kateri, mind whirring as he considered for a moment, before looking back to the scout. “You’re right Chan,” He began, forcing himself to look into the older wolf’s eyes as he spoke; “I didn’t think…” Trailing off for a moment, he glanced over at his sister, feeling a fresh rush of affection and that desire to comfort her in any way he could. “Maybe…” He swallowed, steeling himself and then turned back to Chan; “Maybe I could go with you? If we’re two, we’re less likely to get lost!” The last bit was added for Kateri’s benefit, he trusted a seasoned traveler like Chan could find his way just fine, but hopefully this could help ease her mind. And the truth was, he really wanted to go, their search wasn’t over.

Looking to his father, a brief doubt entered Leo’s mind as he asked: “Unless you need my help?” Kateri was injured after all, and after climbing down the icy slopes, the boy knew how treacherous the climb would be. If Aleister wanted his help, he would go without question, but if the father was confident in taking his daughter back alone, Leo wanted to continue searching; I’m tired of just waiting around…!

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