Martin's head turned, staring up at Bariyan once more. Like the call, it was a statement of authority he was compelled to give his full attention. He rose, part of him passing through the hand as he did so, the crowned man again.

I can do this. Unless doing so stops me from finding you. He had sworn to be there for him – with him. Even if he'd ever wanted to, it was a rule he could not break. In somehow breaking, terrible consequences he was not immune to would arise. But the fear of punishment had not driven him then, nor did it now.

His hands reached over and hovered near the sides of Bariyan's face.

I shall not be alone in facing this future. Neither shall you.