Page 74 of Ruled By Magic

The rest of the group pulled out chairs and sat. “We don’t know what we’ll face once we arrive. Especially what sort of surveillance they’ll have. Unless I’m shielding a room and tell you to speak freely, remain in character at all times. I’ll place a mark on all of you that lets you alert me to trouble. You’re all at a huge disadvantage without magic.” He glanced at me. “I’ll leave your brand where it is, for now, then move it somewhere more discreet once this is all over.”

We locked eyes until I nodded. I hadn’t raised the question of my mark with him yet, but now I had my answer. He intended to move it, but not take it away. I prodded at my feelings on the issue and found confusion. The constant link gave me safety, but took some of my privacy. Made me a little less free. Did I mind? I wasn’t sure. Something to worry about once we were back in Dexia.

Damien spoke. “Let’s run through our roles again. I’ve got the easiest job, I’m myself. Spent six years as a merc, then left to become private security. You hired me for this trip because the palace is compromised and you don’t trust anyone there. You chose a non-mage as you’re suspicious mages might have their own agendas. Me, I take the money and do as I’m told.”

Leo nodded. “Atalie?”

“I’ve worked with Ataran goods and weaponry on the black market. You hired me to advise on what you could be dealing with.”

“Hexara?”

Hex stiffened but answered. “Liv’s personal guard. You hired me to watch her while you’re busy elsewhere, in case any of the Ataran men can’t keep their hands to themselves. The Atarans might find a female guard amusing and try to talk to me, so I’m to keep my mouth shut.”

“Very good. Liv?”

I shrugged. “I’m me. Only in this version I hate you and I’m terrified of you. I’ve had a miserable three months and I’m desperate to be released.”

It would be hard to train myself out of the smiles and small signs of affection I was used to giving Leo; to act cowed and unhappy. I tried to imagine what I’d feel like if I’d spent the last three months suffering abuse and terror. The extreme fear I’d felt when I first arrived, but far, far worse. Taken daily against my will. I shuddered. How differently things could have gone.

“From this point, right now, everyone is to remain in character. Behave as if you’re at the Ataran court. They’re old-fashioned. Damien and Hexara, you must bow before addressing me. Atalie, a respectful nod will suffice, but don’t disagree with me in public.”

He turned to me, face softening as regret tinged his voice. “No smiles or affection. Don’t speak to me unless I address you. Try to avoid catching my eye. I don’t want the Atarans to think I have any regard for you at all.

“Ataran mages view non-mages as almost a different species. They live in slums and can’t hold any vital positions. The prettiest non-mage women can earn money as palace whores. They work as serving girls and the nobles and royals use them however they want. While my dad was visiting, one girl tripped and spilled wine over someone important. He stripped her and made her apologize, on her knees, in front of the entire court.”

Sick dread twisted through me. Our plan seemed foolish, paper-thin, and very, very risky.

“Sounds like a dream come true for you.” Hex’s voice held the bitter note I was coming to despise. “If Liv steps out of line, you can punish her straight away. No need to wait till you’re behind closed doors.”

Silence lay heavy over the table. Leo glared at Hex, and I felt the tension in his limbs. “I haven’t told you the best part yet, Hexara,” he said, voice soft.

Hex narrowed her eyes.

“In Atar, when a soldier or security guard steps out of line, their superior administers punishment personally. That’s me. So, one wrong move and I get to discipline you myself. And I’ll damn well enjoy doing it.”

Hex snorted. “You can’t—”

He stood, thumped his hands on the table, and leaned toward Hex. “That’s what you’re signing up for. I’m only allowing you on this trip because it’ll make things easier for Liv. I decide whether you get on that jetflyer. Right now, you’re a liability. Our lives depend on this. Show me you can behave like a professional, or you’ll stay here.”

I saw the truth of Leo’s words register with Hex. We weren’t in the forest anymore. He didn’t need her help. Once again, he was in charge. Hex tensed and seemed about to snap back, then glanced at me. Her shoulders sagged, and she turned to Leo.

“Okay. I get it. I’m not stupid, I’ll play my part.” She looked down at the table. “Lord Commander.”

I winced on her behalf. The formality felt uncomfortable at first.

Leo nodded. “Thank you.” He strode to the door. “Liv, I need you.” He left without a backwards glance.

The slam of the door reverberated through the kitchen. Damien spoke first. “I don’t think you’d better fuck around anymore, Hex, if you still want to come.”

“Of course I want to come!” Hex turned her gaze on me. “Can we talk? It’s important.”

“Yep.” Leo would have to wait five minutes. “In the library?”

We sank into the cozy sofa in the reading nook. The library exuded peace. Maybe enough to keep Hex’s temper in check.

Hex studied me, so intense I wanted to look down at my hands. “What the fuck did I hear last night? Just be honest. Does he hit you?”

I tried to frame an answer. How to explain something I didn’t understand myself? Something Hex would have no context to take it in?

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