Malcolm barked a gruff laugh at her feisty words, part of the weight sloughing from his shoulders. He squeezed her slim shoulders affectionately. "Well said, my brave niece. You've your mother's fiery spirit." His expression sobered as he met Agnes' knowing gaze. "Though I fear we have much yet to learn of our lost heritage if we are to have any hope..."
Meeting Liza's gaze, he saw the echoes of the mischievous girl he once doted on now intertwined with intimations of primordial power. He clasped her smaller hand in his calloused grip. "Whatever destiny awaits, I will not be torn from your side again," he vowed hoarsely. "Should the veil between this world and the next grow perilous to cross, I shall haunt every accursed realm until we are reunited once more."
A small smile played acro
