I did exactly what Sassafras warned me not to do.

I hesitated.

But they sky was darkening and Meira and I had to go. This was terrible timing, the absolute worst. On purpose? Panic heated my insides and stirred my blood as I realized it was likely-not only that, I had to fight or I'd lose status. Why did I care? Not so much for me, not really. But Dad had to live here. And considering they would take part of my demon's power if I lost... in the heartbeat I had to think ...