The Fall of Heroes      

"You have to live," Thorgar growled through gritted teeth, a grin still spread across his face despite the agony. "Tell the tribe . . . what we fought. Warn them. You still have a purpose. Thraigar."

Balaur's expression was unchanging as he yanked his claws free from Thorgar's body. The force sent the mighty warrior crashing to the ground in a heap, the light in his eyes fading.

He had given his life without hesitation to save his brother.

'Looks like I will join sooner than expected, Valera . . .'

Thraigar's world collapsed in that instant. His heart pounded in his chest, rage and grief surging through him as he clutched Thorgar's still-warm body. He could feel his friend's life slipping away, and the reality of what had just happened struck him like a blow to the gut.

Tears welled in his eyes, but there was no time to grieve. Balaur stood before him, unmoved by the sacrifice.