Howell Makini [2]

He took advantage of the fights between refugees to search through other people's luggage and steal daggers.

He held the dagger close to his chest, holding it with the sole thought of protecting his younger sister.

Howell gave most of the little food he was given to Iriz, and while starving, he whipped his hazy mind into focus.

He wondered if it would be better to go out, but Howell only had two coins, and the village where their house was still suffering from plunder by Salgarez mercenaries.

There was nothing that could be done.

Then, unable to withstand the harsh environment, young Iriz fell ill with a fever.

Howell pleaded with the soldiers, but the most they could offer was a sip of clean water for Iriz to drink.

Howell keenly felt that he and his sister were worse than livestock.

Pigs and chickens were valuable property, so if they got sick, everyone would be in trouble.