I listen intently, my mind turning over the possibilities. Darkness is afoot.
And it is far worse than I expected.
“People accused of ties to the North are disappearing. And when we go to confront those who remain, we find…something else.” Cage’s voice is steady. “Magic I can’t explain. A presence warping them, birthing new entities I’ve never encountered before.”
New entities?
I tilt my head. “And the seer?”
The king sighs, shaking his head. “She is limited—or she refuses to share more. Fates and balances and all that.” His voice carries a thread of disappointment, convincing me he isn’t lying.
My gaze flicks toward him as I extend my mind into his, brush it, testing the edges of his thoughts.
I hit a wall.
My breath stills for half a second. My eyes widen.
He did not notice my attempt.
I wonder who taught him.
Slowly, my gaze drifts to Cage.
Does he have an ability like mine?
I race through the possibilities, and instinct pulls my defenses up. If Cage can read minds, I will need to ward my room and my subconscious against every crack that could be used against me.
I will not allow myself to be exposed.
“Cage will explain the arrangements to you,” Felix says smoothly. “You are a guest here, Millicent, and my kingdom needs your help. There are rules, of course. History has made them necessary. But you are no prisoner.”
His smile is warm, disarmingly so.
“If you need anything else, please come to me. I am king Tyran, but you may also call me Felix,”
I meet his gaze, unmoved. “Noted,” I say flatly.
A guest? As if I would ever subjugate myself to their hospitality. Do they truly believe I would walk in and submit?
Cage descends the steps, pausing only to offer Felix a brief bow.
Felix chuckles at my dismissal. He’s unfazed. “I think having a new witch around will really stir things up!” He claps his hands, pushing himself to his feet.
A new witch?
My spine stiffens. Was one already here? His words are casual. I did not expect this.
Why would a witch live amongst vermin and mages?
This I have to see.
Felix sighs, rubbing the back of his neck as he steps down from the throne. “Cage will show you the rest. Being king unfortunately means I am needed elsewhere.” He exhales heavily, clearly unenthused by the prospect of whatever duty awaits him.
With a snap of Cage’s fingers, guards reenter the room, falling into formation around their king. I watch as they escort him from the chamber. His golden curls disappear through the towering doors.
I turn to leave, but Cage moves to block my path.
He steps in close, lowering his voice so only I can hear.
