Chapter 46

Naomi

As my fingers tingle with newly discovered magic, I shiver against the cold and approach the towering Manor House. The massive black door taunts me, locked tight. I search frantically for a spare key in the potted plants lining the entrance, but come up empty-handed. Desperation sets in as I circle the house, hoping for an open window or a forgotten back door. But every entryway is sealed shut, no doubt Ataz’s doing to keep me out. I try to summon my magic. If I can transform myself into a shrub, I can open a damn lock.

I grip the cold metal handle of the kitchen door, my eyes squeezed shut as I try to concentrate. But no matter how hard I turn it, the stubborn thing refuses to budge. Okay time plan B. I summon myself some cloth, wrapping it around my hand before I punch the glass, shattering into sharp pieces, but I quickly punch through them and toss aside the cloth to inspect my injured hand. Thankfully, a few scratches but nothing too severe. I unlock the door and carefully