Redsand Canyon Hangman is comin’ down from the gallows, and I don’t have very long.

each ticking moment he felt more certain that this was it. no one would answer him, he would be left alone with fragile children and a seizing towhee.

then came aquene, quick to tend to the scene and send him off on a task. his breath hitched hard. he didn't want to leave, who would tend to the children while aquene tended to towhee? he grimaced, molars pinching the inside of his cheeks.

the children, aquene. he said, voice wavering more than he cared for it to. i don't want — i can go but they...everyone needs you.

he felt so helpless.

if she promised to tend to the children too (or find a way to protect their precious forms) he would set off on his task. tears in his eyes the whole time.