Return of the Ancients

Chapter 17 Under the White Flag

Orcalion listened as the tall, hooded figure spoke softly from the shadows. The Panterran only interrupted him from time to time to ask a question, but for the most part he was struck silent by the recent occurrences in the Canite castle.

It seemed the Man-kind was growing in influence and support with each passing day, and once more Orcalion cursed the guards for allowing it to escape. He wished they were still alive, so he could torture and execute them all over again.

The tall figure stopped speaking, and waited. Orcalion could feel the other searching his face, perhaps looking for signs of deceit or treachery.

‘Remember our bargain, Orcalion — when the time comes to pass, I alone am to rule Valkeryn, with the Princess Eilif at my side.’

The old Panterran stared off into the distance. In turn, the tall figure reached out a hand, on which he wore a silver ring depicting a snarling wolf with emerald eyes. Quick as lightning, Orcalion turned on him, holding a wickedly curved blade up to his throat.

‘Never try to touch me again. I hear your words, and I remember our bargain well. You would open the deep gates and deliver up Grimvaldr to us. In return, we would give you his throne, and ensure all rivals for your new… queen, are gone. Just make sure you remain alive to claim them.’

He lowered the blade and glided a few steps away. ‘There is more work for you to do. The Man-kind makes things more… complicated. My queen wants this creature alive.’ He turned back to the hooded figure. ‘And you will assist in making that happen.’

‘That was not our bargain. Beware, little no-blinker, my desire for the throne does not make me your thrall, to be ordered about at will.’

The Panterran bared his needle-like teeth. ‘Since the Man-kind and the young female Wolfen escaped, the entire kingdom must now know of the approach of the Lygon.’ He rubbed his chin, his large yellow eyes slitted in contemplation. ‘Perhaps it is time to pay a visit, give them a reason to hand over the Man-kind… willingly.’ He laughed in an oily, wheezing fashion. ‘See that the Man-kind is not in the throne room when I arrive.’

Orcalion turned away then, but added over his shoulder, ‘This night passes, but I will be back soon… travelling under a white flag.’ He threw back his head and laughed.