Sanibonani! Umlingo at your service. Who has the pleasure of meeting the future 'King of Knaves'? Krystallia holds many secrets and with secrecy comes hidden treasure. No, I'm not talking about mere gold, but magical amulets, weapons which are attuned to the elements, and other items that have been previously seen as myth. Unfortunately, in the search of one particular lore, I find myself captive by a beautiful, but intimidating, noblewoman of the Sumerki Elves. How can I rid myself of an enchanted tower? Alas, I must shake the hands of a Teufel and become indebted to a devil!

Umlingo the Rogue Warlock is created by Khala Grace, an eGlobal Creative Publishing signed author.

Umlingo the Rogue Warlock

The next time I receive a visit, Pautina stares at my hand. She clicks her tongue in disappointment. Her hand takes mine. Pautina holds her finger above the broken skin. Beneath her breath, she utters Sumerki in a quick procession. My ear is unable to catch her meaning. Soon I feel a warm sensation. Pautina’s magic manages to heal my hand!


I forget my anger and growing resentment. She returns my hand with a smile. 


"All better now." Pautina kisses my cheek. "Please, don't do that again."


"I was trying to break this cursed chain," I lie while pulling on the steel. "It's uncomfortable, dorogoy."


For a moment, she glances at the restraint. Pautina turns towards my eyes. 'Act honest.' I have to conceal my desire to flee. If she wages marriage for a freed ankle, then I will have to take the chains. I blink while trying to appear playful. 


"Oh, little shchenok." She ruffles my hair like a pup. "You've been good enough."


Chapter 24: A Violent Turn