Pinned against the wall by Beatrix's magic, Ethan felt the invisible force pressing into his chest, making it hard to breathe. He realized it must be decree magic.
The distant roar of the Orc rave—drums pounding, chants rising and falling like a reverie. It was funny to be deep in enemy territory with his own allies turning on him.
"Calm down, both of you," Ethan said. He locked eyes with Beatrix, refusing to look away. "I get it. You think I'm crazy or foolish. But listen to me first. I can't tell you every detail right now. At least, not here, where walls have ears. But I have an understanding with someone in the Orc Queen's army. It's not as wild as it sounds."
"Her side isn't like Garkash's bloodthirsty outfit. They're different. If we forewarn the Queen about this assassin plot, we could flip them to our side. Get them to join the humans and Elves to protect Gulchtown."
