Page 115 of Eldritch
“I wouldn’t put too much stock into folklore, old man,” Dravien gritted out, keeping his eyes on the surrounding Letalisz, sparing only a quick glance toward the window where the ombrevor kept watch.
“Do it, then. If you insist on killing me, slide that blade across my throat.”
Dravien sneered. “Begging to be slaughtered.” The sneer faded as his brows came together, and on a frustrated growl, he released the mage. “Fucking hell!” He ran his hand back and forth over his head, mussing his hair.
“Unless my Elvyniran is rusty, you owe me a favor.”
“A favor.” Dravien gave a bitter chuckle, shaking his head as he paced, glancing up toward the window. “That’s rich.”
“You’re going to escort my friends to the mortal lands.”
“Dolion …” Kazhimyr sailed a quick scowl back at Dravien before taking a step toward the mage. “Are you mad? Trust him, after he tried to kill you?”
“He’s harmless. Required to fulfill my wish. Failing to do so will result in a grave misfortune. Isn’t that right?”
Turning away, Dravien pressed his lips together.
“You will escort my friends, and help them find someone we’ve lost there.”
“Who would be asinine enough to visit the mortal lands?” Dravien muttered.
“He goes by the name of Zevander Rydainn.”
Dravien’s face ashened. “What did you say?”
“You know him?” Dolion’s brows pinched to a frown.
“Yeah, I know him.” He stared off, his face a mask of concern. “Tried to have him killed once.”
“Well, you won’t kill him this time. You will bring him and his companion home safely. Once you’ve accomplished this, your debt to me is fulfilled.”
Dravien glared back at the old mage. “You ask quite a bit from me, old man.”
“You tried to take my life. I’d say it’s tit for tat.”
“This was your intention all along, wasn’t it?” Kazhimyr growled, his hand resting on the hilt of his dagger, the urge to stab the bastard tingling his palm. “You befriended Ravezio and I to find Dolion. I knew there was something off about you.”
“Always trust your gut.” His taunting sneer only intensified Kazhimyr’s urges.
“My gut is telling me this idea is shit. Ravezio and I can find Zevander ourselves.”
“I promise you, he’s perfectly safe to travel with.” Hands behind his back, Dolion turned to Dravien. “Remind me again what happens when you break your oath?”
The Elvyniran didn’t answer at first.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t hear you.”
He looked away. “An unfortunate tragedy befalls us.”
“Yes. What a shame that would be, if you betrayed me.”
“Who hired you?” Torryn asked from behind.
Dravien shrugged, his insouciance grating on Kazhimyr. “Can’t recall.”
“Perhaps opening that window will jog your memory?” When he didn’t answer, Kazhimyr strode toward it.
“Loyce! General Loyce hired me.”
