Redsand Canyon exordium

"he is my companion." germanicus was careful to say this with no modicum of emotion. crowfeather he tucked inside the breastplate he had long learned to wear. they had come to a small cave set against a long passageway, part of a small network that spread along the wall. 

"this should be suitable for yourself and tamar. they are not the barracks of the mazoi. but they will afford you some privacy." 

he stepped back to their earlier conversation. "if tamar decides she wishes to be a mother, consult lady ruenna. until then, i will need you on patrol. the soldiers here are little more than boys and the canyon is large. i will need assistance fortifying the far reaches and leading the other auxillia on spars."

"there will be a physical and social penalty given for breeding outside of mereo. this does not apply to you, as you are married." it was an assumption. it seemed agreed upon between them. the greek would correct him if necessary. "set an example." he looked at the other with a mutual knowingness of their bond. and what they had done.