24
I was dragged into the house.
The moment I crossed the open doors, a strong wave of pain hit me, making me breathless, and I fell on my knees.
I was barely aware of the door closing and the people surrounding me.
“So glad you’re here, Mirella,” the man said. “I’m William.”
The pain settled, becoming just a dull ache in my muscles, and I looked up. William stood among five other alchemists, all wearing masks, in the center of a foyer. Behind him, cowered in a corner, Ellie cried.
“I’m so sorry,” she muttered between sobs. “I couldn’t help it.”
“Yes, yes.” William waved her off. “She couldn’t help but bring you here.”
I shook my head, not following. “W-what?”
“She was under my influence,” William said.
Influence. What the hell. Now, I thought I was under the influence. Of alcoho
