Chapter 4
“My name is Brocknor,” said the man as they left the building. “I live on a small property on the outskirts of town. It’s secure, comfortable, and private. If you are compliant and respectful, you’ll enjoy your time with me. I’m a fair man, but I won’t tolerate disobedience.” He looked at Jahl. “Do you understand?”
Jahl had yet to resign himself to his fate. It remained his intention to escape at the first possible opportunity. Therefore, he deduced, there was no harm in saying what Brocknor wanted to hear. “Yes.”
“Pleased to hear it. And what’s your name? What do I call you?”
“Jahl.”
By the light of day, Jahl could better see him. Brocknor looked to be at least ten summers older than Jahl’s own twenty-eight. He stood taller by about a head’s length. Broad-shouldered, he wor
