Daria’s POV

The council fire was low and flickered upon the hewn stones of the inner circle. I crossed my arms, and Harriet was quite secure, in a safe room below, and the witches were around me. Their faces were serious now. No fear. No doubt.

Only decision.

The old silver-haired witch of the previous came forward. Elder Maive. Here, her voice was heavy.

What did happen last night, Ari, that changed everything, she said.

"I know," I replied calmly.

Another witch said, You and your child had reserved power that could have broken Witchwood. "Rylan will not ignore that."

I do not suppose he should, I replied.

Maive nodded....