Phoenix Maplewood that the vicious cycle was over

The first words out of Ezra’s mouth put a damper on his hopes. His father and brother had been missing for quite some time, by the sound of it, and may not even be together. The dad’s injury threw another wrench at the situation.

Where did you last see them? he repeated, voice gentle. And can you describe them to me?

Once he gave the youngster an opportunity to do that, Cambria fell into a ponderous silence for a few beats. The wind ruffled through the trees, carrying with it the scent of early autumn, and the yearling’s eyes raised aimlessly to the reddening treetops.

You said your mother is with you? I’m glad to hear that, at least. Are the two of you staying anywhere in particular? Like, if I come across them, where should I direct them?