Wraithblood: The Elixir, Episode 11

“Fine,” you say. “If I live long enough, I’ll give you a vial of Elixir Rejuvenata.”

“Good,” says Ishtara. “But I know how wraithblood addicts think. Hold her.”

The thugs seize your arms, slam you against the wall. Ishtara reaches into her dress and draws out a crystal vial filled with a dark fluid. For a horrified moment you think it is wraithdust, and that’s she’s going to pour it down your throat.

But would that really be so very bad?

“Ah,” says Ishtara, “you were hoping this is wraithblood, no? I can see it on your face. Fear not. This is only a very rare poison. Once you drink it, you will have only three days to live. Unless you receive the antidote. Which I will only give you in exchange for a vial of Elixir Rejuvenata.” One of the thugs pinches your nose shut, and the other paws at your lips. “Don’t worry. The death is quite painless, and…”

Khaenset moves.

One moment he stands in the doorway. The next he stands besides the thug on your left. Or over the thug on your left, who know lies sprawled on the floor, choking to death with a crushed windpipe. The second thug curses and yanks his sword from his belt. Khaenset dodges a hasty stab, sidesteps, and drives his elbow into the thug’s neck.

The man goes down, choking.

Unarmed, Khaenset just disposed of two armed men in about three heartbeats.

And his expression never changed, not even once.

Ishtara tries to flee as you recover your balance, but Khaenset is much quicker. He seizes her lift wrist, twisting her arm behind her back, while his other arm snakes around her throat. Ishtara sags, unable to breathe, eyes wide with fear and panic.

Khaenset’s blank expression turns towards you.

You take a deep breath, remembering the password Nasser gave you.

“What is the greatest treasure?” you say.

Khaenset blinks, once.

“A heart in a jar,” he answers, voice as empty and placid as his face.

You nod. This really is Khaenset.

“One of the Alghol?” says Ishtara, panic filling her voice. “Please don’t hurt me, don’t hurt…ahh!”

Khaenset’s sinewy arm tightens around her throat. “Nerina Strake. My master bade me to protect you, and to obey your orders, so long as they do not interfere with your safety. What shall I do with this one? She tried to kill you.” His eyes remain dull and cold, his voice toneless. “Shall I kill her in front of you?”

Terrified panic fills Ishtara’s face.

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