46 Hefnd

Calder's POV

"You need more rest. Magic can only do so much compared to your natural healing abilities and you don't have Gahe here to help," Olufemi spoke from his place by the pyre, a hint of annoyance in his voice.

"Im fine," I growled, thumbing the newly formed scar on my chest.

Xanthe.

My mate is now a memory, a shadow lingering in the depths of my mind. It's a strange thing to lose something which you once had, like a limb torn from your body without the chance to save it. The door that was once open and welcoming was locked and disinviting. Xanthe had left me; I was alone.

No.

She didn't leave me.

She was taken from me.

That she-bitch of a mutt ripped her from existence.

That was the breaking point of my patience. At that moment, at that realization, I am no longer saddened but blinded by a heap of rage that tasted bitter, yet surprisingly satisfying.

I no longer want Noir for my original purposes. I want to send her straight to Helheim but I don't want her dead, no. Not yet.

I want to torture her, break her— break her mind, body, heart and soul.

Then I hit me.

"Olufemi. Alaric. What is King Garrick's availability right now?"

"I'm unsure, ser," Alaric said nervously.

"I've already sent a messenger to him before this madness, we should be receiving a response in due time. The king, with his young age, can be quite gullible if you are persuasive enough," Olufemi inquires, stroking his finely trimmed beard, a hint of danger radiating from him.

"He also hath a firm-set power, one that could end Dark Wood. Whisper 'i his ear; twist and turn the tables and thou shall hast thy revenge," Alaric spoke, making a chill run from my shoulders to my groin.

"It may take awhile but he shall respond, especially to an "act of war," Alaric finished with a devious smile.

After thinking of how it could and would play in my favor, I cleared my throat.

"Contact members of my pack and send another letter to our King."

Olufemi nodded before scribbling a letter and it turn to ash in his hand.

"Your wish is my command."

That was all the warlock said before retiring, leaving me to my thoughts.

***

Three days later I received a response.

"Calder, Alpba Werewolf to Moon Rock, I seek your audience before the next full moon. Do not keep me waiting," was all the letter read and I couldn't keep my smile hidden.

So you shall.

"Olufemi! Alaric! Pack up. It's a 5 day ride to see King Garrick. If along the way we happen upon a village, pick a maiden and have your fill of her," I sing-songed as we gathered our belongings.

I had a plan and I didn't care if I was wronging a region: supernatural beings or humans alike, it was Xanthe's revenge; my own personal vendetta.

It may take awhile due to the peace treaty and pact but I will dissolve any and all trust the King has for Dark Wood.

With this, I mounted one of our stolen steeds and rode expeditiously into the next day.

***

When we finally arrived, we were met with stone cold demeanors from the castle guards.

Humans.

I pushed my steed forward, past the gates, through the stone village and to the stairs that led to the King.

Taking a deep breath, I look to both Alaric and Olufemi but all they did was nod and with this, I descended the steps and entered the King's hall.

The greatness of the region's King came from the way he loved. King Garrick was one who truly listened, with the heart as well as the ears and eyes. He saw the whole person in a way that others did not, as if he alone was somewhere calm while the rest could only attempt to have vision in the fog.

The most troubled of souls became calm, those from places far away sought his company and counsel. It was as if everyone had a thirsty soul and the best we could do was offer one another a sip at our cups, yet he could hold a saltless ocean in the palm of his hand and fill the cups of all.

So, though I believe I knew him as a man, he definitely was respected as our King, human or other.

With a bow in front of his grace, I kept my head down.

"Calder Hatlen."

"My Grace, I come with news, " I began, standing and straightening out my clothes.

"I have an understanding that you have a treaty amongst the Dark Wood pack but they have plans to betray their part."

"Oh? How so?," the King asked and moving forward, I graced him with a further reply.

And so it begins.