Page 116 of Infernal Bonds

“They were invited as they are every year. He—”

Cornaith’s gaze slid to his wife, halting her words without a sound. “Dugorigi is a good man, as is his son Kairian. The Sephra clan would not engage in treason against Elyrdin’s high council, especially against someone of negligible influence or standing.”

“She has standing,” Ardvaen said, drawing Cornaith’s attention from Amra. “Her position as each of the heirs apparent’s Nyrith elevates her status from that of other Shyrlivi.”

“But human blood runs through her veins,” Caendra protested.

“Hardly enough for it to matter to those with prejudice.” He shot Caendra a grim look. “Though it shouldn’t matter to begin with.”

Caendra scoffed, smoothing her hands over the front of her silken blouse. Clearly, it mattered to her that I wasn’t like them. It seemed discrimination extended beyond the human plane.

“Regardless, the Sephra clan wouldn’t risk their relationship with the council when we are close to finalizing negotiations.”

“Negotiations?”

Cornaith waved a hand at Ezra. “Nothing of concern to you boys right now. But you would do well to remain cordial with Kairian.” His gaze moved to me. “All of you.”

I didn’t know what Cornaith expected of me. I wasn’t the one who hauled Kairian into a shadowed alcove and made him uncomfortable.

“No one else showed that much interest in her,” Cyn said.

“Everyone was interested in your Nyrith,” Lymsrana said, clasping her hands on her lap. “Why do you feel Kairian was different?”

“He literally had her backed into an alcove in the hallway outside the ballroom. He shouldn’t have even been roaming the palace in the first place, but then he—”

“The Sephra clan is not a threat,” Cornaith interjected, tone sharp. “What I’d like to know is how both you and Zeke found yourselves in a position to be taken. Her, I understand, but you two? You have trained for moments like that.”

“I killed—”

“It doesn’t matter who you killed. You still allowed yourself to be taken. And you…” Cornaith dismissed Cyn by turning his attention to Zeke, who squeezed my hand so hard my fingers hurt. “You didn’t stop anyone. You allowed both of you to be corralled into a car. You practically gave yourself to the enemy.”

“He protected Rae,” Ash said, drawing everyone’s attention. “She didn’t get harmed in the process thanks to his protection. He prioritized our Nyrith over combat.”

Cornaith sneered at Ash, his face red and twisted with anger. His reaction made me suspect the guys never spoke out of turn. So why now?

“And while that would be commendable in any other situation, he allowed himself to be taken.” Cornaith looked down at Zeke with disdain. “Your abilities are too important to the council to put yourself at risk.”

His abilities, not Zeke himself.

I looked at Zeke’s parents. They sat quietly while Cornaith talked down to their son without intervening. Caendra’s gaze remained fixed on the floor while Rhistel watched Cornaith, nodding along with every condemnation he delivered.

“You risked too much and almost succumbed to Feranzis’ curse.” Cornaith shook his head. “I think you’ve lost discipline in your time on Earth. I think it’s time for you to reflect on your choices and what is important.”

Ash and Cyn moved simultaneously to block Cornaith’s view of Zeke.

“You dare to stand in the way of my correction?” Cornaith’s fist clenched on the arm of the throne. His eyes flickered black briefly. “You know what must be done. It is the only way he will learn. Stand down.”

“Watch her,” Cyn said, glancing at Ash. “You’re not locking him up after what we just went through.”

Ash took my arm and led me to Ezra’s side, leaning down to whisper, “We won’t let him take Zeke, but don’t say anything that’ll draw his attention.”

What changed that made them stand up to Cornaith? As I understood it, they’d behaved like puppets for their master whenever he commanded them for years. Did the kidnapping change that much? Our bonding? I didn’t know, but I hoped it wouldn’t backfire on them.

“You will not command me, Cyntrix Brakeal.” Cornaith pointed at Cyn, eyes flaring with indignation and flooding black. “Your mother and father may sit on this council, but I have the final say in all disciplinary measures. Do not think I don’t see what she is doing to you boys. That you would stand against your leader with such disrespect… She will need to be taught so as not to influence you three.” He glanced at Ezra. “At least one of you possesses enough discipline to resist her charms.”

Ash squeezed my arm, keeping me close.

“This has nothing to do with her,” Cyn said. “Zeke needs to be with us and not isolated after fighting off the curse.”