Lion Head Mesa the oracle told him to beware the Ides

He chuffed with little humor, the barest hint of a smile at his lips.

I wake before the dawn. It is routine for me. He responded, giving a quick, rough shake. For just a moment, all the dust lifted from his black fur to mingle in the air with the dew, before it was gone.

It would be back within the hour, he was sure.

The barracks are as needed. Akin to what he remembered of Mereo’s.