I'm not sure what I expected from someone Evelyn called "one of the most knowledgeable scholars of magical origins," but the man standing before us looks more like a hermit who forgot civilization exists.
Bastian Wraithwood's cabin is barely visible through the dense forest growth, and he seems to like it that way, judging by his scowl when we approach.
"Evelyn," he says, voice rough like he doesn't use it much. "I told you never to.." He stops mid-sentence, his eyes landing on me.
The change is instant… his whole body tenses, and I swear the air around us grows colder.
"You brought a hybrid to my door?" The way he says 'hybrid' makes it sound like a curse. "Have you lost your mind?"
Jay steps closer to me, his shoulder brushing mine. I can feel the tension radiating off him.
"Bastian," Evelyn's voice carries a warning. "She needs your help. The crown.."
"The crown?" He barks out a laugh that holds no humor.
"That's what this is about? You're chasing fairy tales now?"
