Her pulse trembled, her mind already running through how to redirect the conversation. “What? No, the only two beings in the realm that have the ability to do that are in this room. And even then, we’re not able to compel one another,” she lied.
Esmyra let out a low hum.
“I had the heir in my grasp. I was so close to ripping the air from his lungs when it happened.”
Syrena’s eyes narrowed as she danced around the subject. “Who do you believe compelled you?”
Esmyra’s eyes darkened, a storm brewing within them. “The mortals are working with an elven female.” Her nostrils flared as her gaze went distant. “And they plan to marry her to their new king.”
Thank the tides.
“Elven?!” Syrena gasped dramatically as she began to pace. “Esmyra, you need to keep a mental shield in place at all times around them.”
Esmyra stood from the bed, wincing slightly. She threw her arms out at her sides. “Don’t you think I realize that now? I don’t understand how to do that. I didn’t even think this would be possible.” Her chest heaved a few times. “I didn’t anticipate anyone else in that kingdom possessing magic. Now I know not to underestimate them in that aspect.”
“Well, what did she make you see?” Syrena asked, noting how rattled she was.
If Syrena could figure out her fears, she could use it to her advantage. She knew Esmyra had thrown her fear of love into the flames when they reclaimed their divinity, but what could the elven have shown her? Had it been Draevyn?
Esmyra’s jaw locked and she immediately averted her gaze to the floor. “It doesn’t matter.”
Syrena tsked as she curled a taloned nail beneath Esmyra’s chin, bringing her focus back to her. “It does, actually. I need to know these things. How else would we protect each other?”
Esmyra huffed out a breath. “The elven bitch had an illusion of my father standing in front of me.” She swallowed. “With a blade protruding from his heart. Saying it was all my fault.”
Syrena’s eyes widened, but she continued to listen.
Esmyra bowed her head, looking ashamed. “Everything that happened to him and my crew… it was my fault.”
“Shh.” Syrena tried to sooth her as she pulled her into a hug, rolling her eyes the moment her sister embraced her back. When theypulled apart, they held each other’s forearms as their gazes met. “Did she make you see anything else?”
Esmyra’s jaw ticked, seeming hesitant to answer. “No. Nothing else. Just Cyrus.”
Syrena’s eyes narrowed on her, reading her body language. Esmyra’s teeth were clenched, a sudden tightness around her eyes, as if she was holding something back.
“Are you sure?” Syrena asked, sensing her lie.
Her sister pulled away from her and took a step back. “Aye.”
Syrena sucked on her tongue. It appeared she wasn’t the only sister keeping secrets. “Well good. I’m glad you didn’t have to endure any more than that. You must learn to protect your mind, because that’s likely how they’ll strike again.”
Esmyra lifted her head, silver igniting within her eyes as a pulsation of power skittered through the room. “I won’t let them do it again.”
“Good.” Syrena circled her sister slowly, fingertips trailing lazily along her shoulders. “You’re vulnerable right now. Emotions will make you reckless. If unshielded, any elven could walk through your thoughts like an unguarded kingdom.” She smiled faintly, leaning close. “They’d know every weakness… have access to every fear.”
Esmyra stiffened before placing her hands on her hips. “Then teach me.”
“Close your eyes,” Syrena ordered.
Her sister’s lips pressed together, appearing annoyed, but she obeyed.
“Now,” she whispered, circling again. “Picture your mind as a fortress. Impenetrable walls of dark stone, windows barred. Not even a sliver of light can escape or be let in. Build it piece by piece. Brick by brick until it’s sealed off.”
Esmyra’s brow furrowed. “This seems ridiculous.”
Syrena shrugged. “Ridiculous, but necessary all the same. Picture yourself in those walls, your greatest enemy and only threat just beyond them. If your barricade falters, you will be granted a torturous death.” Esmyra’s nostrils flared. “It’s up to you to hold it strong.”
Esmyra scoffed. “What use is being a god if this must always be in place?”
