Redsand Canyon proprius

He shared a tale of his youth, even baring some scars on the underside of his throat. It reminded Towhee of all the marks on her own body, some of them more visible than others. How many times had she nearly lost her life? She’d lost count over the years.

Ain’t that a mood, she replied a little sardonically, although her lips twitched. I’ve gone through so much shit in my life, I don’t even worry about it anymore. I know I’ll heal in time, then get right back on my feet… probably just in time for the rug to be pulled out from under them again.

She shrugged, glancing at the nearby doorway currently gilded by autumn sunlight, then back to Germanicus. Perhaps this was a good segue into discussing her future, now that the elephant had entered the room by way of the Imperator’s words.

Um, speaking of purposes, Towhee said, swinging her gaze back to him. Before Aquene took the role of Matrona, I considered it, as you know. I still think about it sometimes. Especially now. You know what they say about those who can’t do: they teach, she quipped. Though for the record, I like the thought of advising and guiding everyone, not just their crotch fruit.

She wondered if there was room for a second Matrona, especially now that Ruenna was not just retired but gone. Towhee didn’t want to risk insulting Aquene though, so she didn’t voice the thought. Anyway, it was time to let Germanicus get a word in edgewise.