Subject Interlude II

High atop the tower the dark figure sits, his mind focused on the energies surrounding him. He feels the power of death in the dungeons below, the mystical energy given off and collected as each pile of flesh gives up its soul or spirit. The knocking at the door yanks him from his reverie. "Enter" he barks and Bink, one of his apprentices, enters, bowing low. "Why do you disturb me? You know I left word not to be bothered unless it is very important." "Master" comes the rushed reply, "Word from Bodentown. The last of the swarms has been destroyed." Bink stands in front of his master, head down, hoping that he had made a wise choice. His Master had been known to flay messengers alive for interrupting him for the wrong reason.

The news gets his attention. "You were right to bring word. You have done well. Now leave me while I contemplate this." "Master?" Bink asks "will we send aid to Faldor?" Anger flashes in his Master's eyes and Bink knows he has gone too far. "You over step yourself. Faldor will succeed or fail on his own. I benefit either way. Now, go to the mines for the next month. That will teach you to not question me." Bink sighs in relief. He would live another day.