Redsand Canyon Now time for Plan A

Once again, Killdeer found himself in the right place at the right time. He'd been sullen since Fennec's appearance and subsequent departure, only doing what was necessary to satisfy his new life as a soldier and to look after Towhee as she got closer to having her babies.

The golden figure on the horizon was a welcome sight. The angry posturing was not.

Dad! he called out, hoping to stave off the impending fight before it was too late. He burst into a brisk lope, remaining respectfully at Germanicus's side with a nod of his head to both his commander and Kallik. He then turned his golden eyes to Bronco.

You made it, Killer remarked, with a small smile. Mom said you'd come. I— What's going on here? he asked. The tension in the air was thick enough to eat; he swallowed some panic down, trying to steel himself for what came next.