Sunset Valley my lord my light

the scarred woman did not cower at his feet. she did not shrink into herself and plead for mercy—mercy he would not give. her gaze met his, and within her eyes was a silent strength. one he recognized, one he might even respect. 

he lumbered around her in a semi-circle. he would not spill her blood. he was judging her, assessing. she seemed fit. and she bore scars, a telling sign that she'd once endured great pain. 

a woman like her might do good, joining darukaal's ranks. but he would not be the one to make that decision. that he would leave for his brother in arms. 

"you follow me." he stated. no, demanded. it was not an option; she either follows or she dies. he will not let her wonder across this glacier, not alone. "test your strength. then maybe you no longer be lost."

he moved past her, carving through the snow. he wouldn't look back to see if she followed.