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“Can we speak privately?”
The woman crosses her arms but doesn’t move. “From what I hear, you run in a circle with hunters. Why should I trust you?”
Already knows who I am, perfect.“I no longer associate with them. We’ve cut ties and gone our separate ways.”
A perfectly shaped, white eyebrow arches. “Is that so?” Her eyes flash with power, the green swirling within her irises as she studies me. Then, in a flash, the magic is gone, and she gasps. Taking a step back. “You’re a Shadow Walker.”
“What the bloody hell is a Shadow Walker?”
The woman’s eyes never leave mine as she answers Chasin’s question. “A witch infected with dark magic.”
“Aren’t those Dark Witches?”
“Once they’ve fully lost their souls, yes. You have not, yet. Why?”
Because you’re foolishly attached to a bloodsucker,the magic answers. Thankfully, I’m the only one who can hear it. “Because I don’t want to be a dark witch.”
“A little late for that, dear. You’ve already taken it in. It’s only a matter of time now.”
“No. It’s not,” I snap. “Now, can we please speak in private?”
“Look around; we are alone.”
I turn in a slow circle. “How—” The entire lounge is empty, not a single person around other than Chasin, myself, and the witch before me.
“My people sensed your dark magic the moment you stepped within these walls. They do not tolerate evil.”
“I’m not evil.” The weight of those three words is intense, and I find myself wanting nothing more than to believe them. But even as I deny the shadow magic most of the time, I know that sooner or later, it will more than likely devour me. I can only hope I’ve done what I need to in order to ensure the safety of the city.
Then, I can leave this place, knowing I’ve done all I can to make sure those I once cared for will survive. Mainly Tarnley. The paper in my pocket containing a spell that will re-direct his side of the bond feels impossibly heavy now.
“You are so naïve, my young witch.”
“I’m no young witch,” I snap back.
“Perhaps to most, you are not, but seeing as how I am nearly seven hundred years old, you are young to me. What can I do for you? If you’re looking for help getting rid of the magic, I’m afraid I will be of no use to you.”
“I’m here because something needs to be done about the councils.”
“Oh?”
“In the last few months, we’ve had two dark witches nearly overthrow the balance. First, the original witch, and then her daughter, Lucy.”
Her eyes blaze. “I know all about Lucy.”
“Then you know why that can’t happen again. We were barely able to contain her.”
“I’m assuming this is why you are infected?”
This witch speaks of what she does not know. Kill her now.Magic surges through my body, sparking at my fingertips. I lurch forward and grip the bar as the woman in front of me takes a cautionary step back. Even Chasin seems concerned. “Please do refrain from insulting me.”
“It’s started, then.” There’s no question in the woman’s voice. “You are nearing the end of a losing battle. Your best bet is to allow yourself an elegant exit. On your terms.”
My magic pulsates, an arc of electricity barely contained by grounding rods. I suck in a deep breath, focusing on my seemingly futile attempt at remaining calm. Whatever this witch’s deal is, the magic in me despises it.
“What has started?” Chasin asks.
“Her downfall. The more she uses that power, the quicker it will suck her down. Soon, no one will be able to save her.”
