"That's okay. But may I ask...what is that? Indicating the huge mortar in the arena. And how did you get here? The last I heard you were 'lost to the world'." Ash slips his hand from the mountain's grip, glad the stone was not crushing, and drops his arms to his sides

He now had a vague understanding of why his new companions regarded The Shepherd with such reverence. This giant of a man was gentle, and Ash had the thought that if he wore a green robe and cap, he would look down right peaceful. But there was something under the surface. Like a bear hibernating in its cave, waiting for Spring and the hunt to arrive. Or a wide river, calm on top belying turbulent undercurrents. A perfect balance of control and power.