***
The Shadow Lord waited in the confines of the shifting landscape until a fair haired man appeared from the haze. After many years of mastering the skill, the walk always gifted its user with a subtle grace that manifested as a pliability of the person's physical stature. Lothar was a perfect example; he looked as if he could bend in all directions. His frost white hair betrayed the hallmark of those born of noble heritage in Alvenheim. His paleness further marked him as alven, but the blackness of his eyes marred the ivory of his skin. He glided toward the Shadow, and bent to one knee. His indigo sleeves billowed as he swept his arms back in reverence.
"We waited years for her to expose her whereabouts, and your assassins failed to kill the girl's guardians."
"I apologize, My Liege. We underestimated her skill. We could not have predicted two would outmatch six of my best."
"I hope you have not lost track of her."
"My wolves stalk her as we speak. Even if they were to lose her scent, I have spies all over Scandia. We will know the instant she reaches the Guardian and exposes his identity. I have an army ready to go through the shadowwalk and take on an entire city in his defeat if need be."
"The girl cannot be harmed. I need her to come to our side."
"Ja, My Liege. The boy will be slain before they are able to complete their bond, but the girl will be left to you."
"He must be killed before they are bonded, or his death may harm the girl as well."
"It will be as you say." Lothar swept to his knee again.
The Shadow smiled down upon him.
"Your skill in the shadowwalk increases. I believe you are my most gifted disciple."
"My Liege flatters me."
"Nei, I speak truly. You will be well rewarded when the time comes."
"Anything you bestow upon me will be more than I can ever desire."
"Take your leave, then. Notify me after the deed has been done."
Lothar bowed his head and dissipated, leaving the Shadow alone in the shifting landscape.
"And in case you should fail again, you over confident gelding, I have spies of my own."
***
IF YOU ENJOYED THIS SHADOWLIGHT SAGA PREQUEL,
PLEASE READ ON FOR A BONUS EXCERPT OF
BONDED, BOOK ONE OF THE SHADOWLIGHT SAGA:
The Light Keepers - a YA Epic Fantasy - Prequel to the ShadowLight Saga Page 10