Ahlund's eyes opened wide at the touch. They locked on Justin-the same eyes that had glared at Justin the night his house burned down on the Gravelands, that narrowed on him with disapproval when he acted cowardly or foolish, and that softened with stern compassion in the rare moments when Justin deserved it. A dark glow appeared beneath the cythraul's hand. There was a hissing sound, and locks of Ahlund's hair fell off trailing smoke.

"Ahlund!" Justin screamed. He threw himself ...