Redsand Canyon proprius

"yes. i expect snow to be on the ground before we are ready to venture." he only felt compelled to line plans before them. much of his internal workings depended upon such organization. 

he was not immune to her irritation. "when i was in editum and a much younger man, i walked into a trap set by the heathens across the river. we had fought for many years, long before i was born." he lifted his head, showing the praefectus a ring of ragged, old scars under the fur of his throat.

"i thought i would rather die than be laid abed for weeks, despite the closeness i came to death."

his lips did not move. "it felt as though death was easier confronted than living without a purpose." and he looked at her here now.