These two short stories take place within the time frame of The Painted Man and almost read like outtakes from the novel. But Brett has ensured that each is self-contained, although its place within a larger framework in never in doubt. Of the two, Brayan's Gold is my favourite, so let's start there.
Brayan's Gold tells of Arlen's first mission, the first time he has to spend more than two nights outside since his perilous journey to Miln. I was surprised at how much of Arlen's character Brett has managed to pack into such a short story, and still have...