---
He spoke the offer like a man who thinks words make truth. The hand holding Miryam trembled a fraction. Only Silvershadow, two steps behind his blind side, saw it for certain.
Kai didn't answer at once. The old rage wanted to come back. He kept it in a tight rope and used it for warmth, not fire. He looked at Miryam's face. He made his voice soft for one breath so the next hard breath would not scare her.
"Little one," he said, "I see you. I am here."
Miryam's eyes were wet. She swallowed. "Papa," she whispered again. "My friend—"
Kai looked at the Friend's body on the sand. "I know," he said. "You were brave. Keep breathing. Keep your eyes on me."
Mardek's mouth twitched at the corner. "Enough," he said. "This is not a family visit. Kneel."
Kai set his spear down point-first into the sand. He didn't drop it. He planted it like a flag. He spread his fingers to show they were empty, then closed them again.
