So, i can't be the only one that wonders. Yes, maybe Caelan is Ranoks "path", but what if Ranok is Caelans path as well? What if his path isn't to bring the human home, but to allow him to use the time they're given and the abilities he has to help their tribe? I think Ranok is realizing this in the last chapters due to his terrific diplomacy that almost put the kybash on the entire trip till Caelan saved his fluffy tail. Maybe it's Caelan's path to assist Ranok in bringing his tribe out of their indoctrinating and xenophobic ways? To bring them into proper society so their species can survive and defeat the northern tribes. Then, finally, rekindle the relationship with Tano that he still pines for, and have them both be the tribe leaders. Then, if they both succeed with their paths Ranok will fulfill his duty as future leader. Caelan then can finally die having fulfilled his mission, the one he was originally spared from true death to complete. The one he knew he had but didn't. He was never destined to be Ranoks partner, they weren't even supposed to be lovers. He was there to be his conscience, so to speak, his guiding light, his...... compass. Once his job is fulfilled he will finally be allowed to properly rest, in the forrest beside Ranoks name tree. Just you watch.