Page 135 of The Moonborn's Curse

He didn't let her finish.

"Why?" His voice was quiet. "Why did you do it?"

She blinked. "I... I love you."

"No," he said. "You manipulated me. You manipulated all of us."

"I didn't mean to—"

"I trusted you. Even when I didn't love you. Even when I was honest about what I did feel—you used it. You twisted it. You tainted it."

Airlia's lips trembled. "Because I was afraid."

"You are vile."

He stepped closer.

"Even if you were dying," he said, his voice like a sleek blade sliding between her ribs, "I wouldn't lift a finger to help you. The only feeling I have for you now is disgust."

She flinched as if he'd slapped her.

"They're going to bind your powers," he continued. "With the Oracle's sigil. Don't bother trying. It is unbreakable. Your days of tampering with people's minds are over. And your mother—will be found. She will face the punishment you both deserve."

He turned to leave.

"Wait!" she shouted. "You felt something for me. That's why it worked. You loved me once—"

He didn't even pause. "I felt pity," he said. "And guilt. For leaving you behind."

He glanced over his shoulder.

"I feel nothing now."

"Hagan!"

"Try your tricks," he said, cold and final. "You'll see."

He extended his hand. She reached between the bars of the prison cell to touch it.

She reached out—sank into her power.

And found nothing.

No pull. No tether.

Just silence.

"No—no, no, no—Hagan—please—please!" she screamed after him. "I'm sorry—I didn't mean—don't leave me here!"

But he was already walking out.

Veyr was waiting outside.

Hagan's lip had healed. One eye still had a fading bruise. But he was calm now.

More than calm. Resolute.

"Call the Oracle," he said. "I want to see the sigil put on her skin. With my own eyes."

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