'As I live and breathe,' continued Samel, beaming up at Meryn. 'Meryn Link, and here ready to join with his oldest friend in battle.' He held out his arm and Meryn gripped it. They stood like this for several moments, forearm to forearm, happily slapping each other on the back in the pouring rain.
'Well met, Samel,' said Meryn, clearly delighted to have found the little man. 'It's been a long time.'
'It has indeed. Come. Drink with me,' said Samel, as they broke apart. 'You'll know a few of the others inside and you're sorely needed if we're to hold our heads high in battle over the coming weeks. Some among us still believe hulking size is the only requirement of a great warrior.' His face creased into a grin as he gazed up at Meryn, and tapped the side of his nose while lowering his voi
