Caution

August suddenly felt light-headed. Marius was released? The earth swayed beneath her slightly, and she felt Greta take hold of her arm.

"Graeme, he will not go near the girl as long as she is not a threat," Pearce stated.

"Is he not subject to the same laws that you yourself uphold?" Graeme was seething.

"He has served this council well during your absence, Graeme," Auden replied bitingly. How could Graeme respond to that? They were right. He had left. He was reaping what he had sown in this very room.

"While I understand Marius's freedom may bring anxiety, you must not leave the territory. Not until we know more," Andreas said. The other elders nodded solemnly. "We also urge you to consider the gravity of our suspicions and refrain from…" he paused, his expression darkening, "… from marking her."

"Excuse me?" Graeme growled.