Lion Head Mesa the mosquitoes were almost unbearable

the boy was still there.
merrick had almost forgotten him.
"kynareth and nyra killed my wife. ursus chose a new place for itself. but still they followed. and now they have insulted the bear for the last time."
his voice was stalwart, almost melodic. "the pharaoh and his woman know i have come with my wolves. but i will not wait forever for their scheming. i am called to leave each minute. each hour."
a breath that trembled and splintered. merrick did not look away from the sunspire. "she gave four children and her life for our god. i must avenge her."