“You know I’ll do whatever it takes to make you well again,” Barlo said in a husky voice. He cleared his throat. “Besides, it won’t be just for you. If I can figure this out, it could help a lot of other dwarves too.”
Narilga stroked his cheek. “Be safe. I’ll wait for your return. At least you’re bringing Sinstari with you. That makes me a little less worried.”
Sinstari uttered a rumbling purr of approval.
Barlo gave him a skeptical look. “Yes, that’s very comforting, I’m sure. Now why don’t you get some more rest? I’ll be back before you know it.” He kissed Narilga on the cheek. Her eyes were already closing.
Barlo turned away to leave, but not before Sinstari saw him rub tears from his eyes. They were met at the bedroom door by Barlo’s eldest cub, Khalid.
“So Mother is dying, and yo
