Redsand Canyon Now time for Plan A

Bronco explained, or tried to. Killdeer gave him credit for trying, at least. But it was in vain, and he should have anticipated Germanicus's response; the boy visibly deflated at the order, shoulders sagging, eyes glazing over as they wandered from his leader to his father.

Okay, he whispered, then cleared his throat. Um. Yes, Imperator. Dad?

He began to walk toward the edge of their territory and beyond, gesturing for Bronco to follow. I'm sorry, he said once they had put distance between themselves and the Mereo wolves, voice still quiet. I needed. . .a place. I needed to feel like I was actually doing something, instead of fucking around with Caracal.

He stopped and turned to Bronco, face mournful. I'll visit, he promised. Wherever you go—I'll make it happen. And maybe one day. . .

But his voice trailed off, and the promise was little more than wishful thinking.