~Gole~

“Welcome to Lake Mystic.” I announce as I peer out at the shadow of the cyagen castle in the middle of the fog-enshrouded lake and Poole adds on from my back,

“It’s the home of the cyagenians.”

“Thank you, O wise Poole. I come here to hunt cyagenians all the time with Vutical Pounts.”

I sniff a pair of canine paw prints in the sand, tuning out Poole’s reply and reach a conclusion.

“These paw prints belong to the saniin guardian of Lake Mystic. She belongs to the cyagenians. Let’s keep away from the paw prints as we search for Vutical. I’ve killed many cyagenians and I don’t fancy meeting their protector.”

“You and me both.” A harsh voice says, and I twirl around.

A cyagen I recognize towers over me by two feet. His hair is feathery and white. He’s wearing black metal armor with a belt of pelts and scalps of those he has killed. He studies Poole with silver-grey eyes.

He’s pale but strong looking.

“Vutical Pounts, the cyagen hunter.” I say formally before we both smile.

“It is good to see you, my friend.” Vutical says, smiling, and Poole gapes at him.

“You’re the Vutical Pounts? The famous hunter of cyagenians?”

“Yes, Poole, he’s Vutical Pounts. We’ve already established this.”

“I am in the presence of the last two heroes of Nearth and the Strange Lands. I salute you.” Vutical says as he bows to me and Poole.

“Vutical, I’m afraid I’m not here to hunt cyagenians with you this time.” I say and Vutical straightens back up to stand at his full height.

“Then you are truly going after Terror?” He asks and I nod.

“Poole and I are. Will you join us?”

“I am afraid not, Gole. I must protect the other creatures from the evil of the cyagenians. I truly regret not being able to support you on this mission.”

“I accept that you cannot come. Best of luck with your hunting.”

Vutical nods and turns away. As Vutical leaves, Poole whispers,

“I’m impressed, Gole. Twenty years ago, you would have called him a coward.”

“I have matured, Poole. Being on my own most of the time has its benefits.”