The Silver Wolf's Exchange

Ferguson heard the voice clearly. He didn't know much about astral demigods, but from Helsong's words—like a wolf blowing itself up—he still guessed her identity precisely.

The children of the North Wind God were many, but the only female who was also so high-profile was the Silver Wolf.

When she demanded the Tainted Fang in his possession by name, Ferguson's first response was anger. After all, the sword had been with him since he was young. It had borne witness to every detail of his growth.

It had long since become more than just a weapon.

What was more, after being bathed in the Hunting Lord's blessing, the sword had gone from a holy relic of the North Wind God to a symbol of the Hunting Lord's power. Combined with Ferguson's chosen power, it could double its destructive force. He was about to reject Helsong's offer, but the thought was suppressed the next instant. The "prophecy" Wise Wolf Hogg had made like a joke when they first met came back to him.

That sly fellow, who had won the approval of the Bone-Biting King, had told him that if possible, he should get rid of the weapon as soon as he could. It would bring Ferguson nothing but disaster.

Wise Wolf wasn't a gnoll Ferguson trusted. By rights, there was no reason to take his prophecy or warning seriously. Ferguson ought to consider whether Hogg had been speaking in riddles, and assume the worst. But once the Bone-Biting King was involved, things became complicated.

Especially after he accepted the Bone-Biting King's offer and secretly joined the struggle against the Evil Gods, Hogg's prophecy seemed to carry more weight.

"Those Nordtovians..."

Ferguson stood still, lost in thought. He stroked the head of his deathclaw as his thoughts swirled.

"When they see