Keemlin went down on one knee. “Why do you draw your sword?” Malenarin asked, voice loud so that every man atop the tower would hear. “In defense of my honor, my family, or my homeland,” Keemlin replied. “How long do you fight?” “Until my last breath joins the northern winds.” “When do you stop watching?” “Never,” Keemlin whispered. “Speak it louder!” “Never!” “Once this sword is drawn, you become a warrior, always with it near you in preparation to fight the Shadow. Will you draw this blade and join us, as a man?” Keemlin looked up, then took the hilt in a firm grip and pulled the weapon
...more
