Swiftcurrent Creek hexing circles

Swordfish was almost rigid with nerves. His mind had never raced so frantically before. Even the bear had not crippled him this way. As though his body was perfectly normal and must be kept appearing normal. But his eyes held a sea of fear so deep that he feared he might drown. 

When Akavir appeared, the young bear-hunter could only avert his eyes from the dark man. His head lowered. Akavir had taken him in when he was still young. Not even a year old. Had given him a place to stay. In turn, Shardik had vanished in pursuit of a wicked beast. How could he explain that it had not been an act of disloyalty but one of necessary revenge? 

Akavir... his ears flattened. Good to see ya 'gain...