Redhawk Caldera When she sleeps there is a fever dream

Bronco explained that he was only here to see the caldera, a statement that Phox took as truth. And why wouldn't he? Bronco had no reason to lie to him. The two had always had a pretty good relationship, which was kind of a miracle considering Phox had been so paranoid about Niamh's older kids hating him. That paranoia had waned over the past year, especially since the new kids had been born. Even though Nellie was no longer around (and had caused quite an upset for other reasons), it felt like Phox had managed to gain the trust of both of his stepchildren. Friendly, cordial, and always open for conversation.

It was exactly how he had hoped it would be.

Sure, he said when Bronco asked for a tour. What should we start with? Maybe the spooky skull cave?

That place in particular had always been a little bit creepy to him. The skulls that had been there hadn't been moved since before his parents had gotten here (or so the legend went). Occasionally, Phox had even added his own kills to the cave. It seemed like the right thing to do, and it gave the cave a feeling of ownership to him. Whoever had started the project had done a pretty bang-up job, and who was he to shirk traditions, even if they weren't his own?