Artemis lunged at Durante, intent on proving how wrong he was, but he his second foot hadn’t left the ground before his muscles froze, seized by an outside influence. His eyes widened in fury and panic and he struggled in vain, unable to break Durante’s hold.
Durante spoke in soft, measured words, his voice deceptively calm. “You dare threaten me? You have no idea who you are dealing with. I could kill you with a thought if I so choose. I am older and more powerful than anyone on that pathetic council you wanted so badly to be a part of. They don’t even know I exist. I am the monster that the monsters fear.” Waving his hand, he released Artemis from his hold. “Now go, before I decide to kill you.”
Shaken, Artemis left the room, watching Durante cautiously until he was out of sight. Then,
