[@Beach Burrito]Yes, nothing like keeping that strong jengoistic patriotism going. The Val gotta stick together! 

As to the details of their breeding habits, I initially envisioned it to be more in line with humans than wolves. But you do raise an interesting point in regard to how seasonal breeding patterns would affect Val society. It could be an interesting internal story device.

[@Terminal]No worries on the wait. I think there's another saying about good things coming to those who do just that.