Epilogue

“…and when I came back from my search for Einhart, the tomb was already collapsed, with no trace of Mik’nir” – Nuii finished her report. Her anxiety was visible even through the incense her face was formed of.

A veil of silence fell in the crypt. Only the cold draft of the arctic air rustled on Valamira’s bones.

“It is unfortunate that he met such an end…” – a man with a ghoulish face said. – “Alas, his hubris made him underestimate humans and their tricks.”

The faint glow of the burning incense held in his skeletal hand illuminated his wretched posture. His grey skin was dry as a parchment and strung tightly on exposed ribs. His limbs were withered and lanky like branches of a dead tree.

“You should be mindful of that too, Nuii. Although, you have spent the last ten thousand years in their midst, have you not?”

“Sire, I assure you, my judgement of humans has never failed me.”

“Good. Tell me now, have you found Einhart?”

“No. Only the dead knights of the Brotherhood he left behind. Shall I continue the pursuit?”

“No need. He’s no longer instrumental to our plans. That being said, what of the boy?”

“He fled, along with his yaoguai friend and the rogue battlesister.”

“I see…”

“What are your orders, master?”

“Continue to sow the seeds of my return. Shadow the boy and keep me informed about his movements. With Halandir’s khorii crystals gone, he is our best chance.”

“But my lord, his purple crystal is shattered and useless…”

“Only for now, Nuii” – he said, pinching a small purple shard between his boney fingers. – “Only for now…”