Moonsong Glacier sistermine

The story was stomach-turning, but not, unfortunately, something that Dutch was unfamiliar with. There was evil in the world, and it was sobering to remember how close it sometimes stalked. The panther felt galvanized by the knowledge of this man.

"All have failed," Dutch said quietly, a long moment after Chakliux had finished speaking. "But your women will still sleep easier once you have returned to them. We are not gods to smite all evil we cross. We are only men. But it is a man, and not a god that will bring your wives comfort. It is in this that you must succeed."

It was a cold comfort, if the words meant anything to Chakliux at all. It sat uneasily in the pit of Dutch's stomach until he felt compelled to ask:

"Will you seek him again?"

His eyes said, Take me with you.