Her body was on the ground, a hatchet used to part her head from her body. He watched in horror as she was tossed into the flames of the fire. Her body still moved, still tried to protect herself. He forced himself up, his rage and sorrow turned to face the men. "Kill me!" It was as much a plea as a demand. So much pain twisted through him, so much anguish, he couldn't face it, not and stay sane.

"My pleasure."

Chal turned and saw the man with the crossbow load another silver bolt into it. He cocked the weapon and sighted Chal with practiced ease. Chal held his...