Confusion and fear were mixed in Diana's mind. Her breath was labored and she could only hear a loud ringing in her ears.

She crossed her worried eyes with Hector's, gesturing with her head, telling him that everything was fine. However, it was not well. Perceiving Diana's agitation, Marcos pulled her close to him and put one of his arms around her shoulders in a protective gesture.

"It is an honor to meet an old friend of my father, magician Marcos," said Lucian calmly, noticing the magician's gesture, studying the lord in front of him with his dark eyes. The flames of the fireplace danced across the room, casting strange and sinister shadows across the walls. What trouble had she and Marcos fallen in? Diana thought fearfully, trying to understand her tutor's expressions.

"Let it be known that the feeling is not reciprocal," Marcos said dryly. "If your subordinates had informed us that the patient was Baltazar Hathaway, I would never put my feet here again" he continued not even trying to contain the disgust in his voice.

"I am deeply sorry that you feel that way," said Lucian with a hint of humor in his tone. "But now that you're here since  you came this far, let me explain the situation ..."

“Explain the situation? You are crazy?" Marcos shouted, his voice echoing through the entrance hall, to Diana, it seemed that the walls shook with his fury and indignation “We are going to leave immediately. I refuse to help the miserable Baltazar! He should die already! Miserable bastard! ”

A low, grave laugh filled the room. Something about that laugh made Diana's blood freeze inside her veins. Here was a man who was not used to being turned down even in the smallest matters.

“You have no choice in the matter, Marcos. You will save my father, whether you like it or not!” his tone, which was once friendly, became hard as metal. "Raul!" exclaimed Lucian, his voice mercilessly cutting the air.

Before Diana could process what was happening, Raul took her arm tightly, pulling her away from Marcos. Within seconds, Raul tightened his arm tightly around her back, immobilizing her. And to Diana's despair and dread, a dagger was placed lightly over her throat.

“And now, Marcos? Remember that you are not alone, your actions and choices have an impact on the lives of those around you ”Lucian spoke softly, he looked like a deadly feline in the eyes of the frightened girl. "Will you collaborate or will this girl pay the price of your incompetence?"