Volinette wondered if it was the incessant buzz of the steel around them, or his disbelief in Janessa’s apparent change. “Don’t let her fool you,” he said, stabbing an accusing finger at the girl behind the bars. “She only wants your help because no one else is here to help her. As soon as you let her out, she’s going to be back to her old tricks, mark my words.” “I won’t,” Janessa said in a weak voice. “I’ve learned my lesson, I swear. I’ll perform the Rite of Fealty if you let me out. Whatever it takes for you to help me.” Baris whistled under his breath. Volinette raised an eyebrow. “What’s the Rite of Fealty?” “Those who don’t study history, Volinette, are doomed to repeat it,” Baris chided her. “The Rite of Fealty is a spell they used in the olden days when there were few Masters and even fewer apprentices. A Master would have his apprentice cast it to ensure their loyalty, to keep their secrets secret.
