It is some time before Alfredo speaks again.

"... Well, it wouldn't be a mission of mercy if we could come for just any reason. And if it were problems the people could fix themselves, we wouldn't be needed at all."

Here, the problem had been a sheer lack of people.

The last crystal wolf padded away, and Alfredo relaxed his shoulders, looking much more resolute.

Much older than his years.

"You're right, Romeo. We have to have hope."