Chapter 85: Mercatus Lupinus Obscurus

"He kept insisting he wants to see you," Hercules said as he pushed Hezell into Cleopatra's office.

Cleopatra paused, setting aside the report in her hand. She rubbed her eyes, then looked up at the intruders.

"It must be traumatizing, going from captivity for 19 long years to freedom for just three days, only to be captured again," she said dispassionately, studying him closely.

Hezell's hand found its way to his neck, where he uncomfortably tugged at the invisible collar.

"The witches ban black magic because it's dangerous, not just for the user but for everyone around them," he muttered, locking eyes with her. "You should get Syren to remove it."

"Sarah informed me about the 400 members of the Blackwood Pack you massacred. If it weren't for your connection to the Vause family, I'd have ordered your execution the moment you came into my custody," Cleopatra said, her expression hardening.

"My father and Braeden Vause were close, but not everyone approved of their friendship. In all h