"You're making a mistake," Sebastian warned, the cockiness slipping just slightly.
"No, you are," Alaric shot back. "You're strong. Witch-strong. But don't forget—I am strong too and you don't know which strong I am. You don't know my strength level, Sebastian"
The tension snapped taut. But Sebastian only laughed.
"I'm only agreeing to this because I know I'll see Thalia again," he said smoothly. "That's the only reason I haven't turned you all to ash."
"Tell yourself whatever makes you sleep at night," Alaric sassed, his smile cold.
The knights bowed and turned to leave. Sebastian lingered for a beat, then glanced over his shoulder.
"So we're good?" he asked.
Alaric didn't answer. His silence was answer enough.
Sebastian rolled his eyes. "Right. I'll go find my damsel then."
He exited, his cloak trailing behind him like a whisper of smoke.
Once he was gone, Alaric finally exhaled, alone now with the weight of too many lies. He rubbed his temple, pacing slowly.
