31. (DANE POV)

(DANE POV)

The moment Magness growled at Jo, something primal within me responded in kind, a protective instinct that surged forth with a ferocity I hadn't unleashed in centuries.

This confrontation felt eerily reminiscent of the tense "negotiations" that had secured Deirk's release. It marked a rare instance in which I dared to defy him openly.

Magness's laugh cut through the apprehension, his amusement chilling. "Awww, my pet. I haven't seen you this protective in what... 300 years?" Jo's eyes snapped towards me. She thought he was talking about another girl... another ward.

I hoped she'd see through his manipulative games and understand that there was a deeper and more complex history here than she knew. Later, I'd have to explain Deirk and the significance of Magness's reference.

Testing the limits of my resolve, Magness made a proposition that sent a surge of anger through me. "Okay, my pet. If you're so protective of her and her you, then she can just join us."

My response