“Now hear my command!” Skywolf’s voice carried across the camp like a drumbeat.
“You are to accompany Martin to the lake and river. You will follow his orders—your first duty is to ensure his safety.”
The two elite squads stood at attention, their bone-blades gleaming in the light.
It was no small thing—Skywolf had sent his strongest warriors to guard a foreigner.
That alone showed how much he valued Martin.
“Yes, Chieftain!” the twenty warriors roared in unison.
But Martin shook his head.
“Chief Skywolf, I don’t need this many men. Two will be enough.”
The crowd murmured.
Martin smiled faintly. “Too many people make us a target. Fewer means less noise, less scent, and less chance of being spotted by beasts. We only need speed and stealth.”
He pointed at two among the squads—
Wo
