The cheerful, enthusiastic woman who had been peppering Ragnora with questions about cart wheels and siege tactics had vanished.
In her place, for just a few moments, had stood someone who radiated genuine menace.
"Did you see her eyes?" One soldier muttered. "They went completely glacial. Like a winter storm."
"Was she possessed? Is that a thing that can happen? Do archmages get possessed!?"
"No, you idiot! That was all her. That was pure her."
"I guess that's the power of love." Another said nervously. "Even the gentlest person turns dangerous when someone threatens the one they care about."
"Remind me never to insult anyone she cares about. Ever."
Even Ragnora, who had faced down ancient horrors without flinching, found herself making a mental note not to provoke Isabelle unnecessarily.
—
Meanwhile, Isabelle had returned to Cassius's side.
