Ascendants of Ancients Sovereign - By Phillip Jones Page 0,274

they were about to enter some sort of labyrinth.

After entering, the duo navigated a series of turns before they finally found two torches that sat on either side of a columned entrance. They were not normal torches. In fact, their flames were magical. “Someone or something has been here,” George whispered into Kepler’s ear. “Someone with power.”

Kepler’s response was just a nod.

Beyond the torches, no more than 100 paces away, a sole pedestal sat at the end of this branch. There were no more turns. The labyrinth just ended. “Only one way in and one way out. This feels bad,” George whispered again. “Kep, stay here while I investigate.”

The demon snarled, “We should stay together. I don’t like this.”

“Relax,” George rebutted. “How could someone as big as you be scared?”

“I’m not scared. I’m sensible. Splitting up isn’t smart.”

“Dude ... I’m only going to be right over there. I want to see if the crystal is here. Just stay put and keep an eye out. Come and get me if you see anything.”

“Okay, but hurry.”

At a steady pace, George moved to stand over the pedestal. To his surprise, the piece of crystal was on top of it. He snatched it from its resting spot—keeping his magic ready in case he needed to defend himself.

Once the mage realized there would be no consequence, he motioned for Kepler to join him and then touched the cat on his back. They closed their eyes, but when they reopened them, they were still standing beside the pedestal.

“Garesh,” George whispered.

“What’s wrong?” Kepler questioned.

“I’ve used too much power. It’ll be a while before I can get us out of here.”

Kepler’s eyes flashed. “This isn’t good, George. Those things could come back at any moment.”

“I know, I know. Let me think.”

Now it was Kepler’s turn to rebut. “What do you need to think about? You’re out of power. We’re in trouble.”

“Would you just shut up already. I need to figure out a plan.” The mage scanned the area. He still had two snare scrolls from his trip to the Cave of Sorrow. He pulled them out. “Just stay away from the areas where I use these scrolls. Their magic should stop anything that wanders in. We can hide until I can get us out of here.”

Kepler chuckled.

“What’s so damn funny?”

The cat was smug as he responded, “I can hide, but you’re screwed. They’ll be able to see you ... not me.”

George rolled his eyes. “You’re a real pal, you know that, right? Go keep an eye out.”

Helga Begins Her Descent Into

The Scorpion King’s Cave

Having discovered the entrance by following the scorpions’ trails from the southern shore, Helga also had to use her magic on her eyes to see in the dark. The older sorceress was disgusted by the smell, and she had to lift her dress to keep it from touching the garesh-covered floor. Yet, despite her revulsion, she moved at a steady pace.

The way ahead was surprisingly easy. It appeared to be clear of the poisonous creatures. A fair series of moments passed before she, too, found the corridor that led to the pedestal. This has to be it, she thought. Shalee is going to be so ecstatic. I can’t wait to see Sam’s face.

Helga tiptoed toward the entrance, and then headed for the pedestal as she continuously scanned her surroundings. It appeared she was alone.

From his hiding place in the shadows, Kepler’s ears snapped to attention as his eyes searched the area. He saw nothing, but the cat knew there was a presence. He lifted his nose and searched for a scent. Woman, he thought. She must be after the crystal. The demon did not have to wait long before his suspicion was validated.

Helga whispered curses as she found herself trapped in George’s snare. “I can’t believe this. How could I be so stupid?” The sorceress was unaware of the humongous cat that was listening.

Kepler crouched. The jaguar was trying to determine the height from where the voice was coming. He was about to step out of the shadows and strike with a calculated swipe that would pass through the estimated vicinity of Helga’s head when a much larger scorpion entered the corridor. The monstrosity’s tail alone was nearly a pace longer than the others. The jaguar lowered his paw. This must be their king, he thought.

Helga stared at the entrance and marveled at how the scorpion’s form filled the gap between the walls. She knew her whispers had attracted the beast’s attention, but she was