Elara cut in before he could build up more steam. "Oh, were you about to use magic?" Her tone was flat, dismissive.
"Forget it. This circle was made by my mother. The whole Duke estate is trapped inside it right now. Your magic power?" She paused, letting it sink in.
"It's already gone."
His hand shot up, black ice forming—but it sputtered, flickering weak before dying completely. He stared at his palm like it had betrayed him.
Elara watched without emotion. "Welcome to Mother's trap. Fifteen years in the making."
Suddenly, the emperor shouted, "Come!"
