Chapter 31
Rock Creek, Nebraska
June 1872
An hour had passed since Buck witnessed Joaquin and Lara vanish into the night, leaving chaos in their wake. Kid and Peterson scoured the area, their efforts fruitless in the face of the darkness. Usually, Buck might have found amusement in Kid's berating of Peterson, but not now, not under these circumstances. He couldn't find humor knowing what was at steak and that he helped facilitate their escape.
"Running Buck!"
The urgent call of Night Wolf's voice pierced through the confusion, drawing Buck's attention instantly. He dismounted in one fluid movement; his usually composed demeanor fraught with distress. Beside him stood Sweet Rain Woman, her very presence in town a clear indication of the gravity of the situation.
"What is it? What has happened?" Buck's voice cracked with urgency.
"Steel Eyes burnt the village," Night Wolf relayed, his words heavy with sorrow.
"My brother?" Buck's heart clenched with fear as he uttered the question he saw in both their fcase the answer. His silent anguish was palpable even in the darkness. Memories flooded his mind, each one a bittersweet reminder of what had been and what was now gone. He instantly remembered the last time they saw one another. His brother had been more tender than he'd ever been, had he seen that too in his vision?
"Red Bear said we were moving, over the mountains. I went with White Eagle and a few others. Red Bear stayed with the rest," Sweet Rain Woman recounted, her voice barely above a whisper. "Then we heard the soldiers' guns. We did not make it in time."
"White Eagle and a few warriors stayed. They will give our people a proper burial." Night Wolf drew her closer, offering what little solace he could muster.