Page 9 of A Dose of Agony
“A book about a sacred Orizian culture written by an outsider is less than ideal.”
“Well, there aren’t books on the topic written by Orizians,” I remark stubbornly.
“For good reason.”
I twist my lips. I look down at the book. It’s certainly not the greatest source of information. Even as I read through it, I’ve found moments it’s clear the author only has partial information and is piecing things together.
I’d like to honor Laithe’s wishes, but it’s difficult to let go of my only source of information.
Plus, Liz sent it to me. Maybe there were more reasons than just the note she scribbled in the back of it.
Still, I concede and shut the book. I’ve read it cover to cover once already anyway.
I busy myself by grabbing a second coffee with hazelnut flavoring.
“You know, you could have anything you desire delivered straight to the room,” Laithe says as they lean against the table. “Or if you’d prefer to make beverages yourself, you could have a machine installed.”
“I like coming here,” I say, finishing the perfect balance. I take a sip and allow the caffeine to soothe my agitated soul. Then, I take my seat back at one of the high-top tables.
“We could also redesign the room to look exactly like this. Or give you your own room if you’d prefer.” Laithe sits across from me, looking comfortable, despite refusing to drink anything I offer.
“I have my own room, in Minor Hall,” I bite back, feigning more annoyance than I actually feel. I don’t mind staying in Jarron’s room. What I mind is not having control over where I go, even if it’s for good reason.
“A tiny thing that may as well be considered a broom closet.”
I roll my eyes.
“And has been proven to be inadequate at achieving its main purpose—keeping you safe.”
I’ve come to realize that though Laithe is generally quiet, they are rather stubborn. Since we have that in common, our conversations tend to be circular.
Minor Hall has protection spells designed to keep any powerful beings out, but more than once, Mr. Vandozer and the jinn proved those protections do not apply to them, rendering that aspect of the hall worthless.
I’m consistently tempted to argue that Elite Hall isn’t any better at keeping the jinn out, but I always bite my tongue because I know that’s not really the point.
Here, I am surrounded by powerful allies who will protect me. In Minor Hall, most of my protectors would be incapable of reaching me without causing themselves harm.
I sip on my coffee and narrow my eyes at Laithe. “So, how long will I be trapped in Elite Hall?”
“For the foreseeable future.”
I sigh.
I know Laithe would greatly prefer to be in their home world, assisting Jarron during the conflict. Instead, they’re on babysitting duty. It’s annoying for both of us. I should be more appreciative.
“Although, I do have a surprise for you this morning,” Laithe says after another few moments of silence. “One that will allow you totemporarilyleave Elite Hall.”
“Oh?”
“You woke too early, so you’ll have to wait now.” They quirk a brow, and I nearly groan at the smug expression.
“Why tell me, then?”
Laithe shrugs, smiling. They like taunting me, don’t they?
My heart does a little skip when I consider that the surprise could be a visit from Jarron. It sinks quickly, though, because based on our conversation today, it’s clear that’s not in his best interest.
I absently rub the spot on my neck where his faded bite marks just barely linger.
