"That artifact." Currway's voice slithered out. "Use it next to the stump, and it will transport all living beings within the surrounding area inside the seal. Once inside, what I need is simple."
The voice hardened.
"Bring ten people here. Bring them inside. I will consume them. Their life will be sufficient to free me."
Lumi stared at the orb. He slowly reached his hand out, but stopped it midair. He took a moment to tremble, then crouched to move closer to it.
Before he touched it, Currway continued.
"And before you think of betraying me," Currway spoke with the coaxing warmth entirely gone now. "Know this. Telling others I am here accomplishes nothing. If that great magician already knows my location, then anyone who matters already knows. My presence is not a secret I am asking you to keep."
He let that fact sit for a moment.
