This is all very nice, I’m sure. Cherry rose above the occasion to give Ranger Shaw an out and save face. Well, I admit that I was expecting—even hoping for—a bit of fire and brimstone from Cherry. She certainly looked like she was ready to dish it out a few days ago. Too bad Rusty wasn’t here to provide his own opinion on this arrangement, but Cherry is his mom, after all, and he can always say “No way!”

Otherwise, it looks like this story is headed for the finish line, as soon as the apology letter is delivered, read, and reacted to; and Rusty’s relationship with Rocky is finally resolved (with a bite?). Speaking of Rusty, are we going to cut back to him while on his current hike? Will he suddenly show up behind the guys with Rocky on his shoulder, foaming at the mouth?

Question: Who is that woman in panel 3? She’s dressed like Cherry and has an identical hairstyle. Other than that, I have no idea.