I moved closer to Ryne, who stood as the giant neared. Or at least he gave the impression of being massive. Perhaps it was his thick muscular arms and broad shoulders, or the wide curved sword hanging from his blue sash. White fur boots matched his white pants and sleeveless tunic. In this weather? It was almost winter.

He stopped a few feet short of Ryne. The guards fanned out around him, but they kept their distance. The giant gazed at Ryne with ice-blue eyes and it seemed as if the air in the cave cooled by ten degrees.

“I’ve come,” the man said.

Ryne smiled. “So you have. Welcome, Noak of the Sokna tribe. I’m honored and very glad to see you.”

Ah. Kerrick’s northern friend. Everyone relaxed slightly.

Extending his hand, Ryne said, “I’m Prince Ryne of Ivdel Realm.”

Noak shook it, then turned his icy gaze on me.

“And this is Healer Avry of Kazan Realm.” Ryne gestured.

“Healer? Magic Man said all healers die.” Noak’s cold tone cranked the tension back up.

I glanced at Ryne. He nodded.

“I did die, but I was revived,” I said.

Noak stepped close to me. He held his hand out. Not for a handshake, but with his palm up as if he wanted me to place my hand in his. Remembering what Kerrick had said about Noak’s Winter Curse, I hesitated. Then I spotted the monkeys and Odd inching their way through the guards and felt safer. I reached out.

He grasped my fingers. Ice zinged through my arm. I shuddered.

“You are linked to Magic Man.” His hard expression turned contemplative.

“I... We...” I glanced at Ryne for help. Noak still clasped my hand.

“Prince Kerrick’s out on a mission, but will be returning soon,” Ryne said.

A pulse of coldness tore through me, leaving me gasping for breath.

Noak scowled, but released his grip. “You request help. Who needs killing?” he asked Ryne.

Ryne didn’t miss a beat. “Let’s not rush ahead. I need to know how many soldiers are with you, and what your fighting style and strengths are before I can devise a plan of attack. Is your army nearby? I’m surprised my scouts haven’t reported them to me.” He frowned at Odd, who shrugged.

“My warriors are where Magic Man said to come.”

“And why didn’t you remain at HQ with your warriors? I left instructions with my second in command,” Ryne said.

“Little Brother wished to be here.” Noak strode to the cave’s entrance and shouted for Little Brother.

Ryne and I exchanged a look. Kerrick had only mentioned that Noak had a sister and father. Curious. We waited.