Casey looked out the window, watching as the sun set beyond the city walls. She had sent for Kendall hours ago, but he was taking his sweet time. She knew he was worried about this meeting. She didn’t summon people often.

She turned toward the fireplace and sent a small burst of flames toward the stacked wood. She was getting impatient when a firm knock sounded at the door.

“Enter,” she said as she turned back to the window.

“Sorry for the delay. I was…”

“Delaying being scolded,” Casey finished for him.

“No, I was trying to get information from Enforcement,” Kendall said defiantly.

“Same difference,” Casey replied. “Tell me what happened with the girl today. Keep in mind, I’ve already received word from Marshall and Owen.”

Kendall mumbled something, and her lip twitched up. He wasn’t happy to be reporting to her. He’d wanted her job as a second to Brennor, but had been pushed aside, relegated to lackey instead.

“It was a measured attempt to eliminate a threat, or, at the very least, discourage that witch from getting involved,” Kendall said confidently.

Casey turned to face him and raised her eyebrow. His spine lengthened as he tried to brace her stare.

“That was the worst assassination attempt I’ve ever seen,” Casey said with a snort. “If you’d done any proper research on Vanessa, you’d know she doesn’t abide threats or intimidation. All you’ve done is make things worse.”

“That is unfounded! She’s not as capable as you think! Just a lowly witch seeking protections from a shadow world that would have no qualms about tossing her aside!” Kendall fired back.

“No. She’s much more capable than you realize,” Casey said, not giving him the chance to continue. “You’re dismissed. Make no decisions without contacting me first.”

“You don’t have that authority!”

“Mr. Heath, I have the power to send you back to Vale at my whim. Brennor is losing favor. Who do you think will help pick up the pieces of this mess? Get out of my office before I hand you over to the Houle for prison sentencing.”

“You wouldn’t dare!”

“Try me, Mr. Heath. Vanessa won’t be the only one you’ve underestimated.”