dying in L.A.

He tried to lower Epitaph to the ground with grace but wound up jostling the escaped slave more than he liked. He would have rest and relief from the pain soon enough. Shaye sounded determined, making no note of their potential relation. Of course Rhyme could have been wrong, but he saw his mother and Toxic in the boy's face. Those eyes..
He nodded as Shaye called for Odysseus and Rhyme had no doubt they wouldn't have to wait for long. He returned his gaze to Epitaph, his worry and fears obvious on his face. "You're safe, Epitaph." He rumbled softly as Odysseus appeared before them. "I found him on the border during a patrol. He's been running hard, exhausted, lots of old wounds. We think escaped slave." He looked to Shaye, he was about ready to be off, retracing the boy's steps. Grabbing Acere probably wouldn't have been a bad idea in case he needed backup. He only hoped they hadn't sent too many Hunters for one crippled wolf