Chapter One Hundred and Fourty One

Marco’s POV

Swiftclaw's face didn't show his feelings, and he tapped his fingers lightly on his wineglass. "It's simple, Marco. Just a different way of looking at things."

Swiftclaw smiled a bit, and the light and dark on his face made him seem mysterious. "Sorry for being direct, Marco. But you're not just a prisoner now. You're in my place, and I can do anything to you if you're not helpful."

His words made me feel uneasy, reminding me that my freedom here was fragile. I moved in my seat, staying determined despite the threat in what he said.

"Remember, I have something at stake too," Swiftclaw said seriously. "But don't think I'm weak because I'm being nice."

I looked at him without fear. I might be in an unfamiliar and dangerous place, but I wouldn't be scared. "I know," I said confidently. "But I won't let you control me."

"Since we're talking about secrets and different views," he started, his tone lighter but with darkness underneath, "how about I tell you a little secret?"

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