The words of Alex shook Thane from inside. Somehow, he managed to keep his straight look.
Thane remained motionless outwardly. But Inside, everything had become chaos.
Borderstone, his home, his mountains, his family and the whole clan. Everyone.
Moments ago they had merely been distant thoughts.
Now, enemy generals discussed invading them as casually as merchants discussing grain prices.
His fists slowly tightened, he forced them open again.
Not here, not now. He could accomplish nothing by losing control.
Still, the image refused to leave his mind. Borderstone's stone walls, the great forge. Children racing through snowy streets. His father laughing beside the furnace.
Would soldiers march there?
Would those familiar roads become battlefields?
He drew a slow breath.
Arathorn noticed. Without saying a word, the mercenary captain stepped closer.
His rough hand rested upon Thane's shoulder. A simple gesture, yet strangely reassuring.
The young giant looked toward him.
