Chapter 32
Rock Creek, Nebraska 1872
An hour had passed since Buck witnessed Joaquin and Lara vanish into the night. Kid and Peterson's fruitless search echoed in the distance, their voices carried on the wind. Usually, Buck might have found amusement in Kid's berating of Peterson, but not now, not under these circumstances.
"Running Buck!"
Night Wolf's urgent call cut through the confusion, drawing Buck's attention instantly. He dismounted quickly, his composure wavering at the sight of Sweet Rain Woman beside Night Wolf. Her presence in town was a clear indication of trouble.
"What is it? What has happened?" Buck asked, his voice tight with concern.
"Steel Eyes burnt the village," Night Wolf relayed, his words heavy with sorrow.
"My brother?" Buck's heart clenched as he uttered the question, dreading the answer he saw in their faces.
Sweet Rain Woman spoke softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Red Bear said we were moving, over the mountains. I went with White Eagle and a few others. Red Bear stayed with the rest." She paused, blinking back tears. "Then we heard the soldiers' guns. We did not make it in time."
Buck closed his eyes briefly, memories of his last meeting with Red Bear flooding his mind. His brother had been unusually tender then. Had he foreseen this?
"White Eagle and a few warriors stayed," Night Wolf added, drawing Sweet Rain Woman closer. "They will give our people a proper burial."
Buck nodded, struggling to find words past the tightness in his throat. The loss of his brother left a void in his heart, a stark reminder of the fragility of the life he'd known.