“I feel Meg there." I glanced at the stairs leading to the top floor. “How will
we get in?”
“I know a secret way. I'll get you to Meg,” my father said.
“In case you need it." Gram handed me a pouch like she used on the guard
"Open the sack carefully while focusing your energy on the target." Giving me a
small vial with a jade green liquid that slightly bubbled, she added, “This should be sprinkled in the center of a barrier you’re crossing. One drop is more than enough. It'll detect any magic or warning systems Eliza may have cast. If it turns
red, leave the area. Hopefully, my daughter is as overconfident as usual and didn't protect all of the entries.”
I slipped the items into my jacket pocket. “Don't worry, Gram. I'll be in and
out with Meg and Miles before you know it.”
My grandmother squeezed my hand.
When I looked into her soft brown eyes, I could sense her worry. I focused
all of my energy into sending her all the love I had for her.
“I know you will be cautious.” Gram kissed me on the cheek. “You have
always been my strong girl.”
Cole hugged me tightly. His voice wavered when he said, “Listen to Gram
and be careful, Mar.”
“I'll only be gone for a few minutes, everyone,” I promised, embracing my
inner Gram. “We'll be home in time for breakfast.”
I clasp my father's hand with fierce determination. “Let's get Meg. One day
without her was too long. It is time to take my little sister home.”
Chapter
Thirty-Four
We were careful to watch for any signs of movement as we walked
down the extended patio of the first floor. Before we entered the
enclosure, I placed a drop of the green liquid in the center of the
dark stone. The drop sizzled, but it didn't change color. The
window coverings were tightly closed, and no sounds inside could be heard.
Still, I continued to check for alarms.
“This is the kitchen and staff quarters,” my father cautioned. “Up ahead,
there is a long metal pipe that runs up the side of the house. The pole ladder will
be how we get to the third floor. Hand me the vial, and I'll place the drops along
the way. Stay a bit behind me in case we need to retreat.”
Climbing the pole, I could feel the sadness and anger coming from the
building. How can a house emit such feelings? A chill ran through me at the thought of Meg having to stay here for even one night.
I was relieved when we stepped onto the landing of the second level.
Thankfully, it was all closed up and dark as the first floor. Finally, we reached the third story with no signs of protection spells.
I heaved myself over the patio wall. As we passed the circular stairs, I
couldn't help but think it would have been a better way to go. Keeping close to
the house and watching for any signs of activity, we arrived at the desired window. This was where I felt Meg was being held.
Peeking inside, I could tell it was a child's room. It was dark, but the small
