FINGERING her mother's necklace, Victoria used the spell which in the Latin tongue is called imperium, but is known as sway by the Seraphil clan, who always like to do things differently. It is partly an exertion of the will, and it is important to pitch the command with a certain inflection of the voice. But if it is done properly, others will obey instantly.
There was fear and chaos all around her, and that helped. Her voice cut through the uncertainty, and Victoria directed it at those nearest to her: three archers, two soldiers, and Edward.
“Follow me!” she commanded, pitching her voice perfectly.
They turned as one and locked eyes with her. Only Edward showed resistance, but she would obey her without the magic. The others were alert, responsive, and utterly compliant.
Then she be
