Thoren
Jonas’s voice collapsed into another broken sob.
Nevara pulled him against her immediately, one hand pressing gently to the back of his head as she tried to steady his breathing.
“Jonas,” she said softly. “Slow down. You’re safe. Just breathe.”
The boy clung to her like he was afraid someone else might drag him away if he let go.
“I tried,” he cried. “I really tried.”
“I know you did.”
Kael crouched beside them, his attention sharp and completely focused. Even in the middle of a plaza that had begun to unravel into confusion, he moved with the calm precision of someone whose mind was already several steps ahead.
“Jonas,” he said evenly. “Look at me.”
The boy lifted his head, though his shoulders still shook with each breath.
“How many men?” Kael asked.
“I—I don’t know,” J
