Hytorax Part 2

[Lief Erikson]

Toward the heart of madness

"You have done well, Aasinav. My thanks . . ."

"And mine."

"And mine."

The other members of the Shadowhand's Ruling Council nodded their heads in agreement, and their eyes were all focused upon the gem in Aasinav's hand. It glowed green and white light, glimmering almost like an elven jewel in the darkness of the stark, bare edged room. There were chairs in a semi circle, and Aasinav stood before that semi circle, the Hytorax held out in his hand.

"It must be linked at once," said an older man from a corner. "Linked to the others, to the final connection. We have the skill and the power to do that, though it will take time."

"We can afford the time, Fhorin," Aasinav said smoothly. "Dagankor is even now dealing with the remainder of that pitiful band. They have no chance against his armed troops combined with his magic."

"Don't be so sure," Fhorin answered. "They have proved themselves resourceful already, as well as powerful."

Aasinav nodded, though he knew that the responsibility now rested entirely with the other man, and Dagankor was capable of accomplishing such a small thing. Dagankor and he had manipulated the company every step of its way since its creation, using it for their own purposes. Strange creatures had joined it on the way; it was an odd collection of races at the end. But it was still powerful and capable, and he'd channeled that energy down the path it should take.

"Come," Fhorin said, rising from his seat. "Let us go and place the Hytorax in its home. Aasinav, you have the honors."

Aasinav smiled slightly as he led the small group of men out of the council room and into an antechamber directly adjacent to it.

A blazing array of light and energy lay before them, a grid of connected magical items that it was difficult to focus the eyes on. Aasinav laid the Hytorax beside it. "It is ready to be merged with the rest."

"I shall summon those who constructed this much, at Vardor's order," Fhorin said, turning to leave. As he reached the door he stopped, turned and looked back at his comrades. "From now on, we work night and day until the magic is completed."