Chapter 10
Luz POV:
“Silence!”
A hush settles over the crowd, all dressed in fine attire. As I search the faces desperately for someone familiar, my eyes land on a green haired witch standing amongst the crowd. Unlike the others, she is unsmiling. Her golden eyes emphasize the worried expression she has painted onto her face. She wears a grey cape with yellow lace and her hair is twisted into a neat plait that hangs down her back.
“Emira!” I call out, but it’s no use. She can’t hear me.
“Now,” the Emperor continues, addressing the crowd. “It is my honor to introduce to you the newest member of the Coven.” The crowd murmur their excitement as they listen. “She is fresh out of training, but I think you’ll all find her to be the perfect addition.”
I watch with curiosity as Emira looks around the room, scanning faces. She whispers something inaudible to the person standing beside her, who shrugs his shoulders in response. Leaning forward, I press my hands against the walls of the orb to get a better view.
As the Emperor raises his hands up to the crowd, Amity steps forward from the shadows to join him on the podium. There’s something new about her, as she walks with confidence towards the Emperor. Even from a distance, I can see her eyes glowing a dark red, her smile staged like a lovely little lie. The black cape that hangs around her shoulders swishes gracefully as she turns to face her audience.
Emira’s mouth hangs open, confusion written across her face in big black letters as Amity grins proudly.
“Thank you, Emperor Belos.” She speaks. “I am pleased to fill the role of your deputy. With me as your second in command, we will ensure the Boiling Isles is returned to order.” Her hands clasp in front of her, the smile never fading from her face. She looks almost lifeless, like a doll dressed all in black and decorated with a smile. “It is my sworn duty to destroy those who stand against us, and I am starting with her.”
My eyes widen as a black painted nail points in my direction. Heads turn and murmurs grow louder as most of the crowd notice me inside the blue orb for the first time. Emira meets my gaze for a moment, a look of shock crossing her face before she turns her eyes to the floor. I swallow, hard, running a hand through my hair.
Amity’s eyes burn as she takes a few steps towards me, my name foaming madly at her mouth. “Luz Noceda, the Human.”