Stung by the taunt, Pryak went white. Unexpectedly, he lashed out with a bony fist, catching the young cave-man flush on the mouth. Tharn's expression did not change under the blow, but something crept into his eyes that made Pryak shrink back in alarm. Then, remembering the captive was bound and helpless, he drew back his arm to strike again.
This time, however, a tall figure stood between him and Tharn—Lodorth, under-officer in Sephar's forces.
"You wish the prisoner taken to the pits, O Voice of the God?" The contempt in Lodorth's tone was poorly concealed.
For a moment Pryak considered ordering the man aside. He hesitated, then nodded assent and turned away.
"And the princess?" Lodorth called after him.
"Leave her here."
"This way," said the soldier to young Tharn, and together they moved toward the exit.
It was clear to Tharn that this warrior was no admirer of the treacherous high priest—a conclusion strengthened by the incident in which Lodorth had saved him from a second blow. He wondered if others in Sephar felt so toward their new ruler.
Presently they reached the entrance to the subterranean cell. Releasing the monstrous bar, Lodorth cut Tharn's bonds and motioned for him to enter.