Duskfire Glacier holding the matches

The man bowed his head to her. He did not believe he could have returned if harm had come to her children. Issorartuyok thought highly of young Veteran. He had grown fond of the boy. The young defender had a way of bringing happiness with him, on every word that he spoke. Each adventure that the dark young man embarked on was met with determination and kindness. The northerner did not think it was possible to be any less proud of what Veteran had accomplished. Seeing Wayfarer take on tasks in her own way had been rewarding, as well.

When Lane spoke of something that had happened, Issorartuyok grew somber. The weight inside his chest was suffocating. The man’s dark eyes locked with Lane’s.

Rivenwood had been attacked.

Issorartuyok thought immediately of Heda. He wondered if she had gone back, gone to see her family. Fear spiked inside of him. He would not have her harmed. He would not stand to see the young woman injured. Lane’s words only grew more dire. Ensio had gone to Rivenwood. They had not come back. The northerner could not hear past the beating of his heart within his ears. Had Tuuluuwaq been bested?

I must go search for them.

Issorartuyok could feel the words fighting to be spoken. He could not hold the lump in his throat down.