Lion Head Mesa she reeled in my sight

merrick did not speak when arielle appeared and offered herself to the potentially fatalities of spying during wartime.
but he did not forbid her. the bearwolf saw he could no more stop her from going than he could keep his son grounded to the odd lands of akashingo.
merrick wished to instruct them: wash our scent away. do not double back upon paths. do not call for anyone. do not be killed.
but he chose in this moment to place the full weight of his strength and commitment in the bear. aventus had gone beyond the defenses of moonglow. he would be able to do this, and arielle's healing would carry the pair of them through what might come.
"go with the bear."
merrick's voice was heavy and resolute. his single eye was filled with pride and affection and a determined glint.