When the palace guards rushed forward, intent on welcoming Mia and inspecting her company, one of the witches raised her hand.

"Stay where you are," she said coldly, her voice echoing unnaturally, almost doubled-as if the earth itself repeated her words. "We came this far without guards. Touch any one of us, and I'll burn your breath out of your lungs."

Another wizard beside her added, his tone like gravel, "We don't need escort or permission. Open your mouths again, and we'll show ...