As we watched a training session, I asked Bruns, “Why did you change your mind about me?”

“My reasons were twofold. Assassinating you always came with the risk your heart mate would trace the hit back to me. When the Commander sent his other assassin after you, I’d hoped he’d think the second hit was also ordered by the Commander, and therefore it’d be a major upset in the Ixian leadership.”

I kept quiet about just how much of an upset there was between Valek and the Commander right now. “And the second?”

“Your brother convinced me that your knowledge and intelligence would be an asset, despite the fact you no longer have magic. Also, the Commander has blocked your magic somehow, and we need to learn how he achieved this. If he can do it to you, he’ll do it to the others. And while I’m all for no more magicians...” He frowned. “We need them for the upcoming invasion.”

What a swell guy. He had a few things wrong, but I wasn’t going to correct him.

“And there’s also your knowledge of Ixian tactics and their military that will aid us.”

Ah. I wondered what Bruns would do if I told him Valek suspected the Commander planned to invade after the Fire Festival a mere six months away. Probably freak out and kidnap every magician in Sitia. We looped back to the magicians’ barracks.

“I realize it’s quite a bit to take in,” Bruns said. “I’ll give you a few days to think about it before asking for your answer.” He indicated the two goons who had stayed close by for the entire tour. “They will remain with you to answer any questions you might have. Feel free to explore the garrison. The dining hall is open all day.”

“What happens if I decide not to join and wish to leave?” I asked.

Bruns’s smile failed to reach his eyes. “I don’t think that will be an issue.”

“And if it is?”

“You’re a smart girl, Yelena. You know there are always casualties during a war.”

Before I could respond to the threat, Leif linked his arm in mine.

“Come on, sis, you’re exhausted. You’ll think better tomorrow. I’ll fetch you supper.”

Leif escorted me to the white room. The goons trailed us, but remained in the hall. Probably taking up flanking positions by the door, which Leif closed.

“Don’t bother bringing me any food,” I said. “I’ll find my own.”

“You’re being paranoid. Bruns is—”

“Killing magicians, hiring assassins, kidnapping people and committing treason.”

He glowered at me.

“You tasted the Theobroma. Come on, Leif, think about it.”

“You’re wrong.”

I almost groaned in exasperation. “Okay, then prove it. Stop eating the food for a couple days and see if you still feel the same way about Bruns.”

Leif gasped. “Stop eating?”

“At least find food that isn’t tainted by Theobroma. Can you do that for me?”

He met my gaze. “And if I prove you wrong, will you join Bruns?”

“Yes.”

* * *

Over the next three days, I tested the limits of my imprisonment. The goons bookended me whenever I left my room and kept within two paces of me at all times. Leif brought our meals to my room. It was mostly fruit and raw vegetables—the only edibles not tainted with Theobroma. He ate with me and griped about the food, but he was determined to prove me wrong.

Even with all the various war preparations going on, I spent most of my time in the armory. A number of the new weapons fascinated me, and I practiced with a few at the range. It was amusing to see the goon brothers so tense and ready to tackle me should I aim a weapon at them. Amusing and infuriating, since they completely blocked any opportunity for me to escape.

I also had to fight against the constant barrage of positive thoughts about Bruns and his efforts. Suspecting a magician able to mentally communicate these good feelings to everyone, I asked Leif about it when he brought supper that night.

“I didn’t notice it before, but...”

“But what?”

“Oh, for sand’s sake! You were right. Since I’ve been Theobroma-free, it stinks big-time.” He speared a piece of broccoli with his fork. “Happy now?”

“Yes!” Relief flowed through me. “What’s been going on?”

“There are magicians arriving daily who are already on Bruns’s team. I’m guessing his recruiters are using Theobroma to convince them.”

That was disturbing. “How is he getting to them?”

“Probably the same way he’s doing it here, by spiking their food.”

“Do you know where we are?” I asked.

“Krystal Clan’s garrison, near the coast.”

“Do you know where the other training areas are?”

“No. But I’ve been Bruns’s best buddy, and I’m hoping to be part of his inner circle soon. He’s assigned me to convince you to be on our side, so you’re going to have to spout the bullshit to keep my cover.”

“Can’t wait,” I said drily.

“I hope you’re a better actress than that, little sis, or we’re all in trouble.”

As we finished our meals, I had an idea. “Is there any way to swap the Theobroma for a substance that tastes like it, but doesn’t have the same magical properties?”

“I wish. Theobroma is one of a kind.”